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 stated: 'We firmly oppose relevant parties using art awards as a tool for anti-China political manipulation.' The Dalai Lama, who resides in Dharamshala, India, fled China after an uprising was crushed. He has campaigned for more autonomy for Tibet, perceived by Beijing as an integral part of China. He acknowledged the recognition, stating that he views it not as a personal achievement but as a recognition of 'our shared universal responsibility.' The award was collected on his behalf by musician Rufus Wainwright, who contributed to the audiobook. Last year, the Dalai Lama announced plans to name a successor, escalating tensions with China. According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after death, a process rooted more in spiritual custom than political authority. He has indicated that his reincarnation would occur in the 'free world,' thus infuriating Beijing, which insists that any succession must adhere to Chinese law and be sanctioned by the government.