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, BBC reported. 

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, according to BBC.