With profound sadness, Tibetans around the world mourn the passing of Gyalo Thondup, a veteran Tibetan political figure and elder brother of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who dedicated his life to the Tibetan struggle for freedom. He passed away on Saturday, 8 February 2025, at Taktser House in Kalimpong in West Bengal, India, at the age of 97.
Born in 1928 in Taktser, Amdo, Gyalo Thondup played a pivotal role in shaping modern Tibetan politics in exile. A central figure in diplomatic, intelligence, and resistance efforts, he forged crucial alliances with India, the United States, and other global powers to garner support for Tibet’s cause.
A Life Committed to Tibet’s Freedom
Gyalo Thondup pursued his early education in Nanjing, China, where he became fluent in Standard Chinese and Chinese history. During this period, he met influential Chinese leaders, including Chiang Kai-shek. However, as the Communist revolution unfolded in 1949, he left Nanjing and, by 1952, had relocated to Kalimpong, India, where he became a leading strategist in the Tibetan resistance movement.
He was instrumental in recruiting Tibetan fighters who received CIA training in the United States. His leadership helped establish the Mustang-based Tibetan Resistance Movement, which played a vital role in resisting the Chinese occupation. His political maneuvering also helped secure the passage of three crucial United Nations General Assembly resolutions on Tibet (1959, 1961, and 1965), bringing global attention to Tibet’s plight.
During the Dalai Lama’s escape to India in 1959, Gyalo Thondup worked closely with Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, ensuring the safe passage and resettlement of Tibetan refugees. He later initiated direct talks with Deng Xiaoping in 1979, marking a shift from armed resistance to diplomatic engagement with China. His efforts paved the way for continued negotiations between Tibetan envoys and Chinese leadership in the decades that followed.
Gyalo Thondup served as Kalon Tripa (Chairman) of the 9th Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) from 1991 to 1993 and as the Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Security during the 10th Kashag. His contributions to Tibet’s governance in exile were significant, shaping Tibetan politics for generations.
The Legacy of His Struggles
Gyalo Thondup documented his remarkable journey in his book, The Noodle Maker of Kalimpong: The Untold Story of My Struggle for Tibet (2015), which provided an insider’s account of the Tibetan resistance and international diplomacy. In this work, he reflected on the hardships of exile and the complexity of the Tibetan cause, which can simply be summed up: Tibet’s struggle is not just about a nation lost, but about the survival of a civilisation, a way of life, and a spiritual heritage that has much to offer the world.
His book remains a crucial historical record of Tibet’s modern struggle and his personal sacrifices to ensure the Tibetan identity endures.
Tributes from Tibetan Leaders
On 9 February, the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama held a memorial prayer at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, South India.
His Holiness expressed his deep sorrow:
“It is with deep sorrow that I share the passing of my elder brother, Gyalo Thondup. The primary purpose of the offerings made to the monks gathered here today for his memorial service is to honour his life and legacy. My brother worked with immense dedication and courage, and his determination was truly remarkable. Through these memorial offerings, we pray for his auspicious rebirth, specifically as a Tibetan, where he may continue to serve the cause of Tibet, as he so deeply desired. I too make this prayer on his behalf.”
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the CTA, honoured his legacy, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“It is with deep sorrow that we, the CTA and the Tibetan people, mourn the passing of Gyalo Thondup la, the elder brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A towering figure in Tibet’s history, he lived a meaningful life defined by his unparalleled contributions to the Tibetan cause. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May he attain a swift rebirth and continue his virtuous legacy.”
Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile also paid tribute:
“With a heavy heart, we mourn the demise of Gyalo Thondup, esteemed elder brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His lifelong dedication to the Tibetan cause and his remarkable contributions will be remembered with deep gratitude, inspiring our unwavering pursuit of justice and freedom for Tibet.”
Former Sikyong, Dr. Lobsang Sangay posted on X (formerly twitter):
“I am deeply saddened to hear the demise of Trisur Gyalo Thondup la. He was a patriot who dedicated his whole life for the cause of Tibet. He played an instrumental role during the most difficult phase of Tibetan history. I have had the privilege of meeting him several times and gave me wise and insightful advice. My profound condolences.”
A Nation in Mourning
On 10 February, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) leadership and staff gathered at the Sikyong Hall in Dharamsala, northern India, to offer condolences and honour Gyalo Thondup’s contributions. Officiating Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra stated:
“As we embarked on our journey of exile in India following the illegal occupation of our homeland by the PRC, none of us possessed the understanding or resources necessary to sustain ourselves or our struggle in a foreign land. In the face of these formidable challenges, Kalon Trisur Gyalo Thondup devoted himself tirelessly, making significant efforts to garner support from international governments, including those of India and the United States.”
Postponement of Pokhara Lodrik Jampaling Tibetan Settlement’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
In light of this immense loss, the Pokhara Lodrik Jampaling Tibetan Settlement’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, originally planned for 22 and 23 February 2025, have been postponed until after the traditional 49-day mourning period. As a mark of respect and mourning, the Lodrik Jampaling residents will observe a special prayer service on 11 February at 8:00 AM in front of the Kagyur Temple.
A statement from the Lodrik Jampaling Golden Jubilee Celebration Organising Committee:
“We take this moment to acknowledge Kungoe Gyalo Thondup’s immense contributions to Tibet’s cause and his special connection to the Lodrik people. His loss is deeply felt, and our condolences are extended to his family during this difficult time.”
Gyalo Thondup’s unwavering dedication, political acumen, and lifelong sacrifices have left an indelible mark on Tibetan history. His tireless pursuit of Tibetan freedom, identity, and international support will continue to inspire generations.
May his soul find peace, and may his legacy endure.
Obituaries on Gyalo Thondup published:
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 