Buddhism has had a significant influence on individuals across history and continues to inspire many people around the world. Here are some famous individuals known for their connection to Buddhism:

• The Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama): The founder of Buddhism, Siddhartha Gautama, is considered one of the most famous figures in history. He attained enlightenment and became known as the Buddha, meaning the “Awakened One.”
• Dalai Lamas: The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. The most well-known and beloved Dalai Lama is the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who has been a global ambassador for peace and compassion.
• Thich Nhat Hanh: A Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, writer, and peace activist, Thich Nhat Hanh is renowned for his teachings on mindfulness and engaged Buddhism. He has authored numerous books on meditation and mindfulness practice.
• Pema Chödrön: An American Buddhist nun and author, Pema Chödrön is a leading figure in the Shambhala Buddhist tradition. Her writings on compassion, fearlessness, and mindfulness have inspired many.
• D.T. Suzuki: A Japanese scholar and writer, D.T. Suzuki was instrumental in introducing Zen Buddhism to the West and played a significant role in promoting Buddhist studies in the West.
• Ajahn Chah: A revered Thai forest monk, Ajahn Chah, was known for his simple and direct teaching style. He had a profound impact on the spread of Theravada Buddhism and the establishment of monasteries in Thailand and abroad.
• Jack Kornfield: An American author and teacher, Jack Kornfield is a prominent figure in the Vipassana (insight) meditation movement in the West. He co-founded the Insight Meditation Society and has written extensively on Buddhist psychology and mindfulness.
• Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo: A British-born Tibetan Buddhist nun, Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo is known for her dedication to meditation and her efforts to promote gender equality in the monastic community.
• Matthieu Ricard: A French Buddhist monk and writer, Matthieu Ricard, has been dubbed “the happiest man in the world” due to his involvement in scientific research on happiness and well-being.
• Leonard Cohen: The renowned Canadian singer-songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen explored Zen Buddhism in his life and integrated Buddhist themes into some of his songs and writings.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have made significant contributions to Buddhism or have been inspired by Buddhist teachings. Buddhism has influenced numerous artists, writers, thinkers, and leaders across various fields and continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for many people around the world.