Who is Gyaltsen Norbu? China selected Panchen Lama and the controversy surrounding it

The 14th Dalai Lama has maintained his stance and said that his succession will be selected only by the institution of the Dalai Lama and only the Gaden Phodrang Trust, based in India, has the sole authority to choose the successor. “No one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter”, said the Tibetan spiritual leader which is vehemently opposed by China’s Foreign Ministry, which said, “(They) must comply with Chinese laws and regulations as well as religious rituals and historical conventions”.

As the controversy grows, the Chinese government has announced the second highest spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism from Tibet as the Panchen Lama. Here’s what is known of the Gyaltsen Norbu. 

Who is the new Gyaltsen Norbu?

China has appointed Gyaltsen Norbu as the 11th Panchen Lama in 1995, ignoring the Dalai Lama’s choice of a ten year old boy – Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, who has not been seen in the past three decades. Norbu has promised to make the religion under China’s control and also supports the Chinese Communist Party and lacks the support of traditional Tibetans. 

Norbu is establishing himself to become a familiar figure in the religious scape and also in political circuits by attending high-profile events. Spotted in many political events after becoming an adult, Norbu recently met the Chinese President Xi Jinping and affirmed many decisions, all aligning with the beliefs of Xi Jinping’s party. 

While Gyaltsen Norbu aims to take control of the religion and make it come under the Chinese umbrella, the Dalai Lama’s huge following and established influence stands in the path. The Dalai Lama has also said that his successor will be born in a ‘free world’, referencing outside of China, a notion rejected and opposed constantly by Beijing. 

Tags: China
Vinodhini

A Journalism and Communication graduate who is ever curious and comprehensive about the happenings of the nation. Interested in knowing and breaking down regular news and updates in entertainment, sports, travel and current affairs, has an eye for detail and research from multiple perspectives.

Recent Posts

Why Rent Is Increasing Rapidly in Colombo in 2026?

A rising rent price in Colombo is causing problems for affordability amongst those who live in the city because of… Read More

March 30, 2026

Liza Tarbuck Leaves BBC Radio 2: Why the Saturday Night Icon is Stepping Down

Liza Tarbuck, daughter of comedian Jimmy Tarbuck, has been a welcoming voice on BBC Radio 2 for almost twenty years.… Read More

March 30, 2026

Paradise Season 3 Confirmed: Hulu Renews Gripping Sterling K. Brown Thriller Series

Hulu has officially renewed the popular thriller Paradise for a third season, exciting fans just before the Season 2 finale.… Read More

March 30, 2026

10 Spider-Man Storylines That Brand New Day May Feature

With Brand New Day, Marvel is resetting one of the most iconic superheroes of all time/their incredibly popular franchise character,… Read More

March 28, 2026

NOW IN EFFECT: Leon County Issues Burn Ban Amid Extreme Drought and Red Flag Warning

What Happened In response to continued extreme dry weather, Leon County, Florida, has enacted a burn ban still in effect… Read More

March 28, 2026

PlayStation 5 Pro Just Announced – Here’s What’s Changing for Gamers

Sony has officially debuted the PlayStation 5 Pro, a mid-generation upgrade aimed at improving performance while not having to create… Read More

March 28, 2026

This website uses cookies.

Read More