Rinchen Tashi 
Credit : ICT
The Tibetan world has lost one of its most powerful friends with the passing of Robert A.F. Thurman, the renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar, author, teacher, and lifelong advocate for Tibet. At 84, Thurman leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond academia. He was not only a retired Columbia University professor, but also a bridge between Tibet’s ancient wisdom and the modern world.
In the 1960s, Thurman travelled to India, studied with Tibetan masters, and became the first Westerner ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist monk by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Though he later returned to lay life, his commitment to Tibet never weakened. In 1987, he co-founded Tibet House US in New York, helping preserve Tibetan civilization at a time when Tibet’s religion, language, and culture faced immense pressure under Chinese occupation.
Through books, translations, public lectures, Congressional testimony, and decades of teachings, Thurman made Tibetan Buddhism accessible to Western audiences without weakening its depth. He helped Americans understand not only Buddhist philosophy, but also the historical suffering and resilience of the Tibetan people.
The International Campaign for Tibet honoured him with the Light of Truth Award in 2003, recognizing his role in spreading awareness about Tibet’s culture and struggle. His work during the International Year of Tibet in 1991 also helped bring Tibet’s cause to global attention.
Robert Thurman’s passing is a major loss, but his voice, scholarship, and courage will continue to inspire all who stand for compassion, truth, and Tibetan freedom.
About the Author
Jun Hao 
Lobsang 
Ashutosh Kumar