Choekyi

Choekyi is a Tibetan given name used by many speakers of Tibetan and by members of Buddhist communities. The name is often transliterated in several ways, including Chögyi, Chögyi, and Choekyi. In Tibetan onomastics, elements such as Chö (often associated with Dharma) and the genitive suffix -kyi appear in many compound names, and Choekyi is commonly found as a middle or given-name element in male names.

Notable bearers of the name include Choekyi Gyaltsen, the 10th Panchen Lama (1905–1989). As a leading figure in the Gelug tradition, he held the Panchen Lama title from the mid-20th century and played a central role in religious and political affairs of Tibet before and after his exile to India following the 1959 uprising. His tenure helped shape Sino-Tibetan religious policy during a period of significant change.

Gedhun Choekyi Nyima (born 1989) is recognized by the Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama. After his identification in 1995, he and his family have been subjects of dispute, with the Chinese authorities reportedly detaining him and restricting information about his well-being. His case has drawn international attention to issues about religious freedom and the selection of reincarnate lamas.

Beyond these figures, Choekyi remains a common element in Tibetan names, reflecting its broader cultural and religious significance. Variants in spelling and pronunciation arise from different transliteration systems and regional usage.