His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama is Tibet's spiritual leader and head of state. He is one of the best-known spiritual leaders in the world and loved and respected not only by Tibetans and Buddhists, but by people following many different spiritual paths across the globe.
Born Lhamo Dhondup in 1935 in northeastern Tibet, the Dalai Lama was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama when he was two years old. He began monastic studies at the age of six, and at the age of 23 was awarded the highest degree following the completion of his examinations.
China invaded Tibet in 1949, and the next year His Holiness assumed full political power. Peace talks with Mao and other Chinese leaders did not yield favorable results. The Dalai Lama was forced into exile in 1959 and since then has been living in Dharamsala, India, which became the home of the Tibetan government in exile.
For much more information about the life and work of the Dalai Lama, including his teachings, schedule, webcasts, texts of speeches, and other information, visit the Official Web Site of HH The Dalai Lama.