H.H. the Dalai Lama (b. 1935)
H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the spiritual and political leader of the Tibetan people. He was born as Lhamo Dhondup on July 6, 1935, in Taktser, north-east Tibet. At the age of two he was recognized as the incarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso. The name 'Dalai Lama' is a Mongolian title, which translates as "Ocean of Wisdom". The Dalai Lamas are considered as manifestations of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Chenrezi (Avalokiteshvara in Sanskrit). Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who vow not to pass into nirvana and rather chose to take rebirth in order to benefit beings.
In exile, His Holiness has pursued his studies and is now recognized internationally as one of the greatest living Buddhist scholars. His Holiness lives in Dharamsala, in the North Indian state of Himachel Pradesh. When he is not travelling and giving teachings around the globe, His Holiness gives public audiences and blessings every week in Dharamsala.
In 1989, His Holiness the Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel peace prize for his non-violent principles in his struggle for the liberation of Tibet and its people. His Holiness dedicates his life to bringing peace and happiness in the world. For over six decades, His Holiness has strived to achieve the liberation of Tibet and its people from the communist occupation, through the path of peace and non-violence.
For photos of H.H. the Dalai Lama, please see Songtsen's photo gallery.
Biographies of Chanteloube's other founding teachers:
Brief biographies of the spiritual directors: