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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday mourned the death of acclaimed Buddhist scholar and Padma Shri recipient Robert AF Thurman. He described Thurman as an influential academic, respected educator, and devoted friend of India whose work left a lasting impact on Buddhist scholarship.
In a message shared on X, PM Modi said Thurman dedicated his life to making Buddhist philosophy accessible to people around the world. He added that Thurman’s writings and teachings encouraged a greater appreciation of different cultures.
The Prime Minister also remembered his meeting with Thurman in New York and extended condolences to his family and admirers.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Robert A. F. Thurman, an eminent scholar of Buddhism, a distinguished teacher and a lifelong friend of India. Through his works, he popularised Buddhist thoughts globally and also built enduring bridges of understanding between cultures. I… pic.twitter.com/vSWbZKSMeW
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 17, 2026
Robert Thurman, widely recognised as a prominent scholar of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, died at the age of 84 in Woodstock, New York.
Tibet House US announced his death and acknowledged his decades-long commitment to preserving and promoting Buddhist knowledge.
Throughout his career, Thurman produced numerous books, translations and scholarly works. These contributions introduced Tibetan Buddhist thought to a wider international audience.
PM Modi and Professor Thurman met in New York in June 2023. During the meeting, they discussed the relevance of Buddhist values in addressing global issues.
Their conversation also focused on India’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions and initiatives aimed at safeguarding this heritage.
The Consulate General of India in New York also paid homage to Thurman. It credited him with helping generations around the world gain a deeper understanding of Lord Buddha’s teachings and India’s spiritual legacy.
Professor Thurman held the position of Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University. He also guided institutions such as Tibet House US and the American Institute of Buddhist Studies.
Known for his expertise in translating and interpreting Buddhist texts, Thurman significantly expanded global awareness of Tibetan Buddhism. His scholarly achievements and cultural contributions continue to influence students, researchers, and followers of Buddhist philosophy across the world.
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