The Dalai Lama has reaffirmed that a successor will be chosen following his passing, a process steeped in Tibetan Buddhist tradition involving high lamas and oracles. The selection holds significant geopolitical implications, particularly for Beijing, which seeks to influence the process and potentially install its own Dalai Lama. Washington and New Delhi also have vested interests, viewing the selection as crucial for the preservation of Tibetan culture and autonomy. The article explores the traditional methods of selection and the potential for a contested succession, highlighting the complex interplay of religious, cultural, and political factors.