Professor Robert A.F. Thurman, one of the world's most respected scholars of Tibetan Buddhism, passed away at the age of 84 in Woodstock, New York. His death was announced by Tibet House US, the cultural institution he co-founded and led for decades as a champion of Tibetan culture, Buddhist philosophy, and interfaith understanding.
A renowned academic, author, translator, and educator, Thurman dedicated his life to the study and promotion of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist traditions. He was widely recognized for making complex Buddhist teachings accessible to global audiences through his books, lectures, and translations. His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that helped shape modern understanding of Tibetan Buddhism in the West.
Tibet House US described Thurman as a visionary scholar whose teachings influenced generations of students, practitioners, and researchers around the world. His close friendship with the 14th Dalai Lama played a significant role in promoting awareness of Tibetan culture and spiritual traditions beyond Asia.
The Consulate General of India in New York paid tribute to Thurman, describing him as one of the foremost scholars of Buddhism and a steadfast friend of India. The mission noted that his lifelong dedication to Indo-Tibetan Buddhist studies helped introduce the teachings of Lord Buddha to audiences across continents while fostering a deeper appreciation of India's spiritual heritage.
In June 2023, Thurman met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York. During their interaction, they discussed the relevance of Buddhist values in addressing modern global challenges and explored ways to preserve and promote India's rich Buddhist legacy. The meeting reflected Thurman's enduring commitment to dialogue between cultures and civilizations.
Throughout his distinguished academic career, Thurman served as the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University. He also led Tibet House US and the American Institute of Buddhist Studies, institutions dedicated to preserving and advancing Buddhist scholarship.
Among his many contributions was his acclaimed English translation of the Vimalakirti Sutra from the Tibetan Kagyur, a work that introduced important Buddhist philosophical ideas to a wider readership. His writings and lectures earned him international recognition as one of the most influential interpreters of Tibetan Buddhist thought.
Thurman was also known to many as the father of acclaimed Hollywood actress Uma Thurman. However, his own achievements stood firmly on their own. He was named among America's most influential public intellectuals and remained a respected voice in religious and philosophical discourse for decades.
His legacy will continue through his scholarship, students, and the countless people inspired by his work promoting wisdom, compassion, and cross-cultural understanding.
