Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo and the Dalai Lama stand in a relationship marked by deep mutual respect within the wider Tibetan Buddhist world, rather than by a formal teacher–disciple bond. They belong to different lineages: the Dalai Lama is rooted in the Gelug tradition, while Tenzin Palmo is a nun of the Drukpa Kagyu school, so he is not regarded as her root guru in the technical sense. Nonetheless, she holds him in high esteem as a central spiritual and moral leader for Tibetan Buddhists, frequently acknowledging his guidance and example with great respect. Their connection thus reflects the way Tibetan Buddhism can transcend sectarian boundaries through shared values and aspirations.

From the Dalai Lama’s side, there has been clear appreciation of Tenzin Palmo’s spiritual commitment and her work on behalf of nuns. He has publicly supported her efforts to improve education and opportunities for Buddhist nuns, and has encouraged broader initiatives for full ordination for women of the kind she advocates. This recognition situates her within a circle of practitioners whose dedication is seen as beneficial to the entire tradition, not only to a single lineage. Their occasional participation in the same teachings, conferences, and dialogues—especially those focused on women in Buddhism and monastic education—further illustrates a relationship grounded in shared concerns for the flourishing of the Dharma.

Seen in a broader spiritual light, their relationship can be understood as a meeting of two complementary expressions of Tibetan Buddhism: one representing an established institutional leadership, the other embodying the contemplative and reformist energy of a dedicated nun. Without relying on a formal guru–disciple framework, they exemplify how mutual esteem and common purpose can function as a powerful bond. Both are committed to preserving Tibetan Buddhist teachings while making them accessible and meaningful for contemporary practitioners, and both give particular attention to the welfare and advancement of women in the monastic sphere. In this way, their connection serves as a living example of how different lineages and roles can harmonize in service of the same spiritual vision.