The Dalai Lama, the spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism, has often called himself a simple monk, but for more than 60 years armed with little more than charm and conviction, he has managed to keep the cause of his people in the international spotlight.

The Dalai Lama will participate in a series of events this week, including a major gathering of Buddhist leaders, in what Tibetan officials say will be a crucial mom

Ahead of his 90th birthday this week, Tibetan leader the Dalai Lama has said that there will be some kind of a framework for the continuation of the institution after his death. He is expected to outline his succession plan around his birthday.