Robert Thurman, Scholar and Uma Thurman’s Father, Dies at 84

Robert A.F. Thurman, a renowned scholar of Tibetan Buddhism, author and educator, has died at the age of 84 in Woodstock, New York. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in introducing Buddhist philosophy to Western audiences, Thurman's death was announced by Tibet House US, the non-profit cultural organization he co-founded to preserve and promote Tibetan culture and traditions.

In a statement shared on Instagram, Tibet House US said Thurman died on the morning of June 16. The organization described him as a prominent American Buddhist scholar, translator and teacher whose work shaped countless lives over several decades. The announcement also included the Tibetan Buddhist mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum,” a sacred invocation associated with compassion and Avalokiteshvara, one of Buddhism's most revered figures. The Thurman family has requested privacy during this period of mourning.

Born in New York in 1941 during World War II, Thurman's life took a dramatic turn when a serious car accident at the age of 20 left him with a glass eye. The experience prompted him to reevaluate his future and embark on a spiritual journey. He left university, ended his first marriage and traveled extensively before eventually arriving in India, where he encountered Tibetan Buddhism and began a lifelong association with the faith.

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Under the guidance of the 14th Dalai Lama, Thurman converted to Buddhism and spent several years as a monk. He became one of the first Westerners to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist monk and later developed a close relationship with the exiled spiritual leader. After returning to the United States, he dedicated his career to teaching, writing and promoting Tibetan culture, helping broaden understanding of Buddhism among Western audiences.

Thurman was also known for his distinguished academic career and extensive body of literary work. His books, including Inner Revolution, Infinite Life and his acclaimed translation of The Holy Teaching of Vimalakirti, earned widespread recognition. Through his writings and lectures, he became a leading voice in Buddhist studies and cross-cultural understanding.

Beyond his academic achievements, Thurman was the father of Hollywood actress Uma Thurman and had five children, including Uma, Ganden, Dechen, Mipam and Taya. He is remembered not only as a respected scholar and close confidant of the Dalai Lama but also as a cultural bridge between East and West whose teachings and advocacy left a lasting impact on generations of students, readers and spiritual seekers around the world.

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