China Protests Grammy Award for Dalai Lama Recording
The Chinese government criticised the Grammy Award given to a recording associated with the Dalai Lama, calling the honour politically motivated and inappropriate. China’s foreign ministry said that recognising the religious leader was an interference in its internal affairs and could harm China–US cultural relations.
Grammy Win and Recording Details
The 69th Annual Grammy Awards included a win for Best Global Music Album by a project featuring teachings and chants of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. The album brought together traditional Tibetan Buddhist chants and music by international artists, and it gained attention for its spiritual content rather than political significance.
Beijing’s Response
China’s officials reiterated that the Dalai Lama is a separatist figure in the context of Tibet and said the award could be seen as support for separatism. They urged the Recording Academy and foreign governments to respect China’s position on Tibet. China also expressed concern that the award might influence public opinion on sensitive sovereignty issues.
International commentators said the Grammy reflects artistic recognition and not an endorsement of political positions. The Recording Academy did not comment on China’s criticism.
