Sun Feb 09 11:03:17 UTC 2025: ## Gyalo Thondup, Dalai Lama’s Brother and Tibetan Activist, Dies at 97

**Kalimpong, West Bengal –** Gyalo Thondup, the elder brother of the Dalai Lama and a prominent figure in the Tibetan struggle for autonomy, passed away at his home in Kalimpong, West Bengal, on Saturday at the age of 97. Thondup played a pivotal role in advocating for Tibet, engaging in both diplomatic efforts and, at times, supporting armed resistance against Chinese rule.

Born in 1928 in Amdo province, Tibet, Thondup was instrumental in coordinating the Dalai Lama’s escape to India in 1959. He subsequently dedicated his life to securing international support for the Tibetan cause, establishing crucial relationships with Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and US officials. For years, he facilitated CIA-backed training programs for Tibetan guerrilla fighters, although he later regretted this reliance on foreign support. His diplomatic efforts also included representing Tibet at the United Nations, resulting in several resolutions condemning China’s actions in Tibet.

From 1956 to 1974, he focused on securing US support for Tibetan resistance. However, he later shifted his strategy, emphasizing direct negotiations with China. He engaged in talks with Chinese leaders, including Deng Xiaoping, advocating for a negotiated settlement. This led to a period of dialogue between Tibetan representatives and China, which ultimately concluded in 2010.

Thondup served as Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile from 1991 to 1993 and as Minister for Security from 1993 to 1996. His memoir, *The Noodle Maker of Kalimpong*, detailed his experiences and reflections on his involvement in the Tibetan resistance. In a final interview in November 2024, he urged Tibetans to remain united and preserve their culture.

The Dalai Lama led a prayer service for his brother on Sunday, expressing his sorrow and praying for Thondup’s swift rebirth. Thondup’s death marks the end of an era for the Tibetan independence movement, leaving behind a legacy of both diplomatic engagement and unwavering commitment to his homeland.

Read More