Dharamshala: Kalon (Dolma) Gyari of the Department of Security (CTA) visited the bereaved family of Late Kunga Thinley, the former long-serving personal guard of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, to extend her condolences on his demise. The late escort, popularly known as Kusung Kunga La, passed away at the age of 87 on 8 January 2026 in Chandigarh.

Brief Bio of Late Kunga Thinley (Kusung Kunga-la)

Kunga Thinley was a distinguished figure in the Tibetan exile community and a lifelong, devoted protector of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Born in 1939 into the Gethoktsang family of Kham Gawa, Tibet, his life unfolded as a testament to courage, loyalty, and selfless national service. From an early age, he embodied an extraordinary sense of duty that would define his entire life.

In the aftermath of the Chinese invasion of Tibet, the young Kunga Thinley—only 17 years old—joined his father, Jorten, in defending their homeland. During this turbulent period, he demonstrated remarkable bravery and resolve well beyond his years. While escorting his father, younger brother, and the entire community into exile, he courageously engaged in combat against occupying forces, placing the safety of others above his own.

Upon arriving in Dharamshala, Kunga Thinley began his long and distinguished association with the Tibetan Exile Government, working closely with both the Ganden Phodrang and the Central Tibetan Administration. From 1960 to 1961, he served as a sincere and diligent volunteer under the late Deputy Member Rinchen Tsering (DrawuPon). During this critical formative period of the exile administration, he played a vital role in supporting the Department of Security, helping manage the steady influx of newly arrived Tibetan refugees and coordinating audiences with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In 1962, after a brief period spent with his family in Darjeeling, his exceptional reliability and dedication prompted an urgent recall to service via telegram.

A historic turning point came in 1963, when Kunga Thinley became the first-ever Kusung (Personal Bodyguard) selected in exile. His formal career as a civil servant began on 4 March 1964, marking the start of more than three decades of close personal service to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to serve for several decades as the Chief of the Kusung, earning widespread respect for his discipline, vigilance, and unwavering loyalty. His service went far beyond professional obligation; even during times of deep personal hardship or family struggle, he consistently placed his duty to His Holiness and the Tibetan nation above all else. Known for his legendary work ethic, he was rarely seen taking leave, dedicating his prime years with singular focus and humility to safeguarding the Tibetan leadership.

Following his years in the personal security detail, Kunga Thinley transitioned into administrative leadership, serving as the Head of the Security Branch in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala. His career spanned an extraordinary 48 years, including 46 years as a civil servant and 2 years as a volunteer. Throughout this period, he maintained an unblemished record of exemplary conduct, widely recognised for his “clean work,” integrity, and exceptional performance. A role model to colleagues and younger generations alike, he consistently prioritised national service over personal comfort. He concluded his distinguished career at the rank of Under Secretary, retiring at the age of 72.

In the early hours of January 8, 2026, Kunga Thinley peacefully passed away at 1:35 AM at Max Hospital, Chandigarh, at the age of 87.