Robert Thurman, Tibet House Co-Founder and Uma Thurman’s Father, Dead at 84

Robert Thurman, a prominent scholar of Tibetan Buddhism and a co-founder of Tibet House U.S., has died at the age of 84. Thurman passed away Tuesday morning in Woodstock, New York. He was also known as the father of actress Uma Thurman.

Thurman was a distinguished academic, dedicating much of his career to the study and dissemination of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and culture. His work played a significant role in introducing these traditions to a Western audience. He was instrumental in the establishment of Tibet House U.S., a cultural and educational institution founded in 1987 with the Dalai Lama's guidance. The organization aims to preserve Tibetan culture and promote understanding of its rich heritage. Thurman's involvement with Tibet House often included organizing and participating in its annual benefit concerts, which brought together artists and performers to raise awareness and support for the Tibetan cause.

Throughout his life, Thurman was a vocal advocate for Tibet and its people. His academic pursuits were deeply intertwined with his commitment to Tibetan culture and spirituality. He held professorships at various universities, sharing his extensive knowledge and fostering a deeper appreciation for Buddhist thought. His passing marks the end of a significant era for scholarship on Tibetan Buddhism and for the cultural advocacy he championed.

His legacy extends beyond academia and activism, notably through his family. His daughter, Uma Thurman, has achieved international acclaim as an actress. Robert Thurman's contributions to bridging Eastern and Western understanding of Buddhism, coupled with his role in establishing Tibet House, ensure his lasting impact on both scholarly and cultural spheres.