
Tibetan
Spiritual leader
06 Jul 1953
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born on July 6, 1935, in the small village of Taktser in northeastern Tibet. Recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama at a tender age, he began his monastic education early, encompassing a range of subjects from philosophy to metaphysics. However, political upheavals, notably the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, thrust him into the global spotlight. As Tibet's spiritual and political leader, the Dalai Lama sought to negotiate Tibetan autonomy, but with increasing repression, he was forced to flee to India in 1959, where he established a government-in-exile.
While his exile has been lengthy, the Dalai Lama's influence has only expanded. From his base in Dharamsala, India, he has traveled the world, advocating for peace, inter-religious dialogue, and Tibetan rights. His teachings, emphasizing compassion, mindfulness, and the interconnectedness of all beings, have resonated with millions, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. In recognition of his tireless efforts towards nonviolence and human rights, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. Through his words and actions, the Dalai Lama embodies a relentless pursuit of peace, urging humanity to embrace love and empathy in the face of adversity.