The Dalai Lama’s decadal birthday celebrations draw more than the usual flock to Dharamshala, the headquarters of Tibetan Buddhism and its government-in-exile

Dharamshala, the scenic hill town in Himachal Pradesh, is currently the epicentre of global spiritual energy, and it’s not because of its mountains. Hollywood actor Richard Gere landed here this week to join in the celebrations for the upcoming 90th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, and he’s not the only one making the pilgrimage.

With his 90th birthday approaching, the Dalai Lama is expected to hint at his successor's identity, amidst China's claims over the selection process.