Gyalo Thondup, the elder brother of the Dalai Lama and former chairman of the exiled Tibetan government in India, passed away at the age of 97 at his home in Kalimpong. Thondup played a key role in networking with foreign governments and securing U.S. support for the Tibetan cause. The Dalai Lama led a prayer session for him and praised his contributions to the Tibetan struggle.
Thondup made India his home in 1952 and was instrumental in establishing contacts with the Indian and U.S. governments for Tibetan support. He initiated discussions between Tibetans and Chinese leaders in 1979, shifting from an armed struggle approach to advocating for face-to-face talks with Beijing.
Thondup served as chairman of the exiled Tibetan government from 1991 to 1993, during which time he worked tirelessly for the Tibetan cause and facilitated relations with world governments. He believed that the Tibetan issue could only be resolved through dialogue with China and emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Tibetan diaspora and the loss of a key figure in the Tibetan struggle. The Dalai Lama and Tibetan media outlets have expressed their gratitude for Thondup’s efforts and contributions to the cause. His legacy will be remembered by those who continue to fight for Tibetan autonomy and human rights.
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