Hope to live till 130 yrs: Dalai Lama on b'day-eve

On the eve of his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama on Saturday said he hopes to live until he is over 130 years old as a two-day religious prayer ceremony for his long life began at Tsuglagkhang, the main Tibetan temple in McLeodganj.

- ARPREET BAJWA @Chandigarh

Addressing scores of followers at the ceremony, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, said that he has "clear signs and indications" that the blessings of the Avalokiteshvara (a Buddhist spiritual protector) are with him.

"Looking at the many prophecies, I feel I have blessings of the Avalokiteshvara. I have done my best so far. Looking at the many prophecies, I hope to still live for 30-40 years more, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma. Your prayers have borne fruit so far," said the Tibetan spiritual leader, attired in his maroon monk robes and flowing yellow wrap.

"I have been able to serve the Buddha dharma and the beings of Tibet so far quite well. And still I hope to live over 130 years. We have lost our country and we live in exile in India, but I have been able to benefit beings quite a lot. So living here in Dharamshala, I intend to serve beings and the dharma as much as I can," the Dalai Lama said, putting to rest rumors surrounding the announcement of his successor. "Ever since I was a child, I had the feeling that I had a strong connection with Avalokiteshvara."