Who Is Robert Thurman? Age, Biography and Wiki
Robert Thurman, an influential American Buddhist writer and academic, was born on August 3, 1941. As of 2025, he is 83 years old. His long and illustrious career has seen him become a prominent voice in Western Buddhism, advocating for mindfulness and compassion. He is well-known for his translations of Tibetan Buddhist texts and his lectures on Buddhism's relevance to contemporary life.
| Occupation | Activists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 3, 1941 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Robert Thurman's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Though specific measurements are often not publicly disclosed for academics, Robert Thurman is approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall. His weight fluctuates but is generally around 160 pounds, reflecting a lifestyle committed to health and well-being that aligns with his Buddhist practices.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Robert Thurman was previously married to Nena von Schlebrügge, a former model and actress, with whom he has three children, including the well-known actress Uma Thurman. As of 2025, there have been no public confirmations about his relationship status, and rumors regarding a new boyfriend or girlfriend remain unverified. His dedication to his family and teachings suggest that his personal life is often kept private.
Robert Alexander Farrar Thurman (born August 3, 1941) is an American Buddhist author and academic who has written, edited, and translated several books on Tibetan Buddhism. He was the Je Tsongkhapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University, before retiring in June 2019.
He was the first endowed chair in Buddhist Studies in the West. He also is the co-founder and president of the Tibet House US New York. He translated the Vimalakirti Sutra from the Tibetan Kanjur into English. He is the father and grandfather of actresses Uma Thurman and Maya Hawke.
Net Worth and Salary
Robert Thurman’s net worth as of 2025 is estimated to be around $5 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his academic career, published works, lectures, and various educational initiatives in Buddhism. His salary varies based on the engagements he undertakes, including speaking events and academic positions, but he remains grounded in his teachings rather than focusing on financial gains.
Career, Business and Investments
Throughout his career, Robert has authored several notable books, including "Inner Revolution" and "The Tibetan Book of the Dead," which have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in translating and explicating Tibetan Buddhism for the English-speaking world. Besides writing, he is the co-founder of Tibet House US, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture. He is also a professor at Columbia University, where he continues to educate future generations about Buddhist philosophy and practice.
In addition to his writing and teaching, Robert Thurman has been involved in various charitable efforts aimed at supporting Tibetan refugees and promoting peace and compassion through mindfulness.
Thurman is known for translations and explanations of Buddhist religious and philosophical material, particularly that pertaining to the Gelugpa (dge-lugs-pa) school of Tibetan Buddhism and its founder, Je Tsongkhapa.
Social Network
Robert Thurman is active on various social media platforms, where he shares insights about Buddhism and philosophy. His official social media accounts, including Twitter and Instagram, have garnered a substantial following, allowing him to reach a global audience. Though he maintains a relatively low profile, he engages with fans and followers through these platforms, promoting discussions around mindfulness, compassion, and spirituality.
* Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of the Dalai Lama of Tibet, graphic novel, William Meyers, Robert Thurman, Michael G. Burbank, initiated artistically by Rabkar Wangchuk, art a team effort of five artists coordinated by Steve Buccellato and Michael Burbank, Tibet House US, ISBN 978-1941312032
Education
Robert Thurman earned his Bachelor's degree from Harvard University, where he studied Indo-Tibetan Buddhism. He later pursued further studies at the University of Delhi in India, deepening his understanding of Tibetan culture and Buddhism. His education has played a crucial role in shaping his academic approach and his commitment to translating and disseminating Buddhist teachings.
(1909–1962), an Associated Press editor and U.N. translator (French and English). He is of English, German, Scottish, and Scots-Irish/Northern Irish descent. His brother, John Thurman, is a professional concert cellist who performs with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
He attended Phillips Exeter Academy from 1954 to 1958, then went to Harvard University, where he obtained his B.A. in 1962. He later returned to Harvard for graduate study in Sanskrit, receiving an M.A. in 1969 and a Ph.D. in 1972.
