Beijing criticises Dalai Lama Grammy win as 'manipulation'

China has reacted angrily to an unlikely winner at the Grammys - the Dalai Lama - saying it opposes art awards being used for "anti-China political manipulation".

The Buddhist spiritual leader was recognised in the audiobook category for Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama said he accepted the award with "gratitude and humility".

The 90-year-old has lived in exile from his Tibetan homeland since 1959 and is condemned as a rebel and separatist by Beijing.

China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a news conference: "We firmly oppose relevant parties using art awards as a tool for anti-China political manipulation, and this position is consistent and clear."

The spiritual leader, who lives in Dharamshala in India, left China in fear of his life after Chinese troops crushed an uprising. He has campaigned for more autonomy for Tibet, but Beijing considers it an integral part of China.

In a message on social media the Dalai Lama, who is also a Nobel peace laureate, said: "I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility.

"I don't see it as something personal, but as a recognition of our shared universal responsibility."

The award was collected on his behalf by musician Rufus Wainwright, who was among the artists to feature on the audiobook.

Last year the Dalai Lama confirmed plans to name a successor, which has caused further friction with China.

According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after death - a process deeply rooted in spiritual customs, not political authority.

He has previously said his reincarnation will take place in the "free world", meaning outside of atheist and communist China but Beijing swiftly rejected his authority to determine a successor.

Chinese officials insist that any succession must follow Chinese laws, religious rituals and historical conventions - and ultimately be approved by the government in Beijing.

The announcement has reignited fears among Tibetans in exile that China will attempt to name a successor to tighten control over Tibet, the region it occupied in 1950 and has ruled ever since.