Gyalo Thondup, the esteemed political operator and elder brother of the Dalai Lama, has passed away at the age of 97 in Kalimpong, India, as confirmed by the Dalai Lama's office.
Gyalo Thondup, Influential Tibetan Political Figure, Passes Away at 97
Gyalo Thondup, Influential Tibetan Political Figure, Passes Away at 97
The elder brother of the Dalai Lama played a pivotal role in the Tibetan political landscape for decades.
Gyalo Thondup, an influential political figure and the elder brother of the Dalai Lama, has died at the age of 97, with confirmation stemming from the Dalai Lama's office. His passing occurred on Sunday in Kalimpong, West Bengal, and has been reported extensively by Tibetan media outlets.
Reflecting on his life, the Dalai Lama described his brother as "a good man who did his best for the Tibetan cause." He expressed hope for Thondup's rebirth as a Tibetan, voicing a desire for him to once again serve in the integration of spirituality and politics that defines Tibetan administration, in accordance with Buddhist beliefs about rebirth.
Gyalo Thondup was a pivotal figure in Tibetan society and is regarded as the second-most influential person in Tibet, surpassed only by his younger brother, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. While the Dalai Lama took on a more public persona, garnering global attention, Thondup operated as a discreet yet effective political strategist, advocating tirelessly for his brother’s return to Tibet after his exile in 1959.
Born among six siblings to farmers in Takster, China, Thondup was distinct in his path; he was the only sibling directed toward an academic life rather than religious service. Committed to his brother's cause, he sought alliances with international leaders and pursued opportunities that might usher in Tibetan independence, embodying a steadfast dedication to their homeland amid ongoing challenges posed by Chinese authorities.
In light of his passing, many within the Tibetan community mourn the loss of a steadfast advocate.
Reflecting on his life, the Dalai Lama described his brother as "a good man who did his best for the Tibetan cause." He expressed hope for Thondup's rebirth as a Tibetan, voicing a desire for him to once again serve in the integration of spirituality and politics that defines Tibetan administration, in accordance with Buddhist beliefs about rebirth.
Gyalo Thondup was a pivotal figure in Tibetan society and is regarded as the second-most influential person in Tibet, surpassed only by his younger brother, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. While the Dalai Lama took on a more public persona, garnering global attention, Thondup operated as a discreet yet effective political strategist, advocating tirelessly for his brother’s return to Tibet after his exile in 1959.
Born among six siblings to farmers in Takster, China, Thondup was distinct in his path; he was the only sibling directed toward an academic life rather than religious service. Committed to his brother's cause, he sought alliances with international leaders and pursued opportunities that might usher in Tibetan independence, embodying a steadfast dedication to their homeland amid ongoing challenges posed by Chinese authorities.
In light of his passing, many within the Tibetan community mourn the loss of a steadfast advocate.
