For much of the past century, the Dalai Lama has been the living embodiment of Tibet’s struggle for greater freedoms under Chinese Communist Party rule, sustaining the cause from exile even as an increasingly powerful Beijing has become ever more assertive in suppressing it.

The Dalai Lama says he hopes to live until he is over 130 years old, a remark he made during a ceremony organized by his followers to offer prayers for his long life as he prepares to celebrate his 90

At 90, the Dalai Lama is still one of the world's most powerful spiritual leaders, writes Pico Iyer. Here’s why.

The Dalai Lama previously told Reuters in December he might live to 110. (Reporting by Krishna N. Das in Dharamshala; Writing by Shivam Patel; Editing by William Mallard)