Born in France in 1946, Matthieu Ricard is the son of the renowned philosopher Jean-Francois Revel and pioneering artist Yahne Le Toumelin. He is a Buddhist monk, author, translator, and photographer widely recognised for his contributions to the dialogue between science and spirituality.
Ricard first travelled to India in 1967, where he encountered eminent Tibetan spiritual masters. After completing a Ph.D. in molecular biology at the Pasteur Institute in 1972, he chose to leave his scientific career and settle in the Himalayan region, where he has lived for over four decades.
Since 1989, Ricard has served as the French interpreter for Dalai Lama, playing a key role in facilitating cross-cultural and philosophical exchanges. He is also an active member of the Mind and Life Institute, which promotes interdisciplinary research at the intersection of contemplative traditions and modern science.
An accomplished author, Ricard has written numerous influential works, including Notebooks of a Wandering Monk, Altruism: The Power of Compassion to Change Yourself and the World, A Plea for the Animals: The Moral, Philosophical, and Evolutionary Imperative to Treat All Beings with Compassion, The Art of Meditation, The Quantum and the Lotus, and The Monk and the Philosopher. His books have been translated into more than twenty languages, reaching a global audience. Ricard is also a respected photographer, with published works such as The Spirit of Tibet, Buddhist Himalayas, Tibet, Motionless Journey, and Bhutan. His visual work reflects his deep engagement with Himalayan cultures and landscapes.
Beyond his intellectual and artistic pursuits, Ricard is deeply committed to humanitarian work. He donates all proceeds from his books, photography, and public engagements to charitable initiatives. He is the founder of Karuna-Shechen, established in 2000 on the principle of “compassion in action.” The organisation supports education, healthcare, and social development projects for underprivileged communities in Tibet, Nepal, and India.
Ricard’s widely viewed TED Talks, which have garnered millions of views, further extend his influence, sharing insights on happiness, altruism, and the cultivation of compassion.
