In 2011, the Dalai Lama laid out three possibilities, explains Aukatsang. “One, there would be the traditional method of selection, which is very time tested, which has been a Tibetan process throughout history. read more
Traditionally, the successor is a child who is born at the moment of death of the current Dalai Lama, that child is considered the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama - in essense, all Dalai Lamas are considered the same reincarnated soul. read more
For decades the now-80-year-old 14th Dalai Lama, has been advocating a "middle way" resolution to the conflict with Tibet. This involves autonomy from the People's Republic of China. Now Aukatsang says the fear is China can "run out the clock" and deal with a new leader who will capitulate to Chinese authority. read more
When the Panchen Lama died, the current Dalai Lama launched his search and eventually recognized Gedun Choki Nyima. Communist forces kidnapped Gedun before he could leave for India under the Dalai Lama's tutelage, and he's been under house arrest ever since. read more