The 12th Dorje Phagmo of Tibet, 'Female Living Buddha' and Cadre: A Political Paradox?

The article discusses the history and Chinese political position of person holding the Tibetan Buddhist religious title Samding Dorje Phagmo. Details are provided about the rights and title of the Samding Dorje Phagmo and about the origin and religious duties of the institution.. The history of the Tibetan-Sino relationship is described and the social status of Tibetan Buddhists in China is explored. The Tibetan woman who serves as Samding Dorje Phagmo acts as head of the Samding monastery and president of the National People's Congress of the Tibet Autonomous Region.