Gyalo Thondup, the elder brother of the Dalai Lama and a former chairman of the exiled Tibetan government in India, passed away on Saturday evening at his residence in Kalimpong, West Bengal. He was 97.
Known for his pivotal role in advocating the Tibetan cause, Thondup led multiple rounds of talks with China and established key relationships with foreign governments, including the United States.
Tibetan media paid tribute to his diplomatic efforts and credited him with securing U.S. support for Tibet's struggle for autonomy.
On Sunday, the Dalai Lama led a prayer session at a monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, where he is currently residing for the winter.
He prayed for Thondup's “swift rebirth” and remarked, “His efforts towards the Tibetan struggle were immense and we are grateful for his contribution.”
Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Singh Taang expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Gyalo Thondup. He praised his lifelong dedication to the Tibetan cause and compassionate service to the community.
Thondup, one of six siblings of the Dalai Lama, was the only brother who did not enter religious life.
Making India his home in 1952, he played a critical role in liaising with the Indian government, including Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, when the Dalai Lama fled to India.
According to Radio Free Asia, Thondup's efforts were instrumental in establishing ties between Tibetan leaders and U.S. officials.
Initially advocating armed resistance against Chinese control, Thondup changed his stance in 1979, initiating direct discussions between Tibetans and Chinese officials.
His pragmatic approach to diplomacy was underscored by his 2003 remarks to RFA, where he said, “Neither India nor the U.S. would be able to solve the Tibetan issue, and that progress could only come through face-to-face talks with Beijing.”
Thondup served as chairman of the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamshala from 1991 to 1993, continuing his efforts for peaceful dialogue until his later years.
His passing marks the end of an era for Tibetan diplomacy, with his contributions deeply etched in the Tibetan people's collective memory.
Gyalo Thondup was born in the village of Taktser, located in Amdo (now Ping'an District, Qinghai province), in late autumn of 1928. He relocated with his family to Lhasa in 1939.
Also read: With Delhi win done, BJP now targets Bihar with 225-seat aim
Follow us
