In brief
Gyalo Thondup, noted for his significant influence in Tibetan politics and his lifelong dedication to advocating for his brother, the Dalai Lama's return to Tibet, has died aged 97. The Dalai Lama expressed his grief, emphasizing Thondup's commitment to the Tibetan cause.
Gyalo Thondup, the 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. His death marks the loss of a pivotal figure in Tibetan political activism, with Tibetan media reporting the news on Sunday. The Dalai Lama described Thondup as “a good man” who devoted his life to the Tibetan cause, expressing hope for his rebirth as a Tibetan to continue serving both spirituality and politics.Thondup was regarded as a crucial political player in Tibet, often recognized as the second most influential person in the region, following his younger brother, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. While the Dalai Lama often took a front-facing role in international affairs, Thondup worked behind the scenes, managing geopolitical relationships to advocate for Tibetan independence and the potential return of his brother, who has been in exile since 1959. Born into a family of farmers in the Chinese town of Takster, Thondup was the only sibling not destined for a religious life, having been sent abroad for education. Throughout his lifetime, he served as a steadfast adviser to the Dalai Lama, continuously working with global leaders to further the Tibetan agenda. His contributions to the Tibetan struggle and dedication to his brother’s cause have made a lasting impact on the region’s political landscape.
