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I n t e r n a t i o n a l A MESSAGE TO YOUNGER TIBETAN

We’re following nonviolent path, will not give in: Vol. 03, Issue 147, Print Issue 71, December 31, 2015 Third leadership workshop for class X students Inaugurated by Sikyong

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US Congress sanctions $6 million fund for Tibetans in Nepal and India

By Yeshe Choesang: December 23, 2015

Sikyong, Dr.Lobsang Sangay addressing the class X students,Photo: TPI/ Tashi Dolma

By Dawa Dolma: December 29, 2015

DHARAMSHALA – Dr. Lobsang Sangay, the Sikyong of Tibetan people in exile, inaugurated the third leadership workshop for class X students who came to learn the leadership responsibility from different parts of India and Nepal at Lower TCV School, Dharamshala on 26th December 2015. The workshop will be of eight days and it is being organized by the Department of Education, Central Tibetan Administration for over three years now.

There are over 300 students and 31 teachers from 31 Tibetan schools in India and Nepal are participating in the workshop and all the expenses of travel to foods are being recovered by CTA. The workshop is jointly funded by PRM (USA), FUR DIE FREIHEIT and The Tibet Fund (USA). In the words of a teacher from Ladhak TCV, “We have come all the way from Ladhak by flight and every cost has been refunded by the concerned Administration”.

The chief guest of the inaugural ceremony was Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay.

Education Kalon Mr. Ngodup Tsering, Education Secretaries Mr. TopgyalP-2...

HONORING 30 POLITICAL PRISONER RELEASED IN 2015

SFT organised a special event to honor the 30 Tibetan political prisoners who were released in 2015, in session they have some leading tibetan activists based in dharamshala. Photo: TPI/Tsering Norbu

Dharamshala — The US Congress the US Congress in its budget for the fiscal year 2016 sanctioned a massive six million dollars in aid for Tibetan community in India and Nepal.

The Congressional budget appropriation bill states “Of the funds appropriated by this Act under the heading, “Economic Support Fund” not less than $6,000,000 shall be made available for programs to promote and preserve Tibetan culture, development, and the resilience of Tibetan communities in India and Nepal, and to assist in the education and development of the next generation of Tibetan leaders from such communities”.

Notably, the six million dollar fund sanctioned this year by the US Congress is a 100% increase from the one sanctioned last year. The US Congress sanctioned $3 million under a new line item to aid the Tibetan community in India and Nepal last year in its budget.

Expressing his profound gratitude, Dr Lobsang Sangay, Sikyong or the political leader of the Tibetan people, said: “The Central Tibetan Administration would like to express its deep gratitude and thank the US government and Congress for their generous assistance towards the Tibetan community.”

The massive six million dollar fund for the Tibetan people was part of the US Congressional budget worth $1.8 trillion approved by US lawmakers for the financial year 2016.

The US Congressional budget itself was a result of a rare bipartisan action after years of damaging fiscal fights in the Congress.

The Senate voted 65-33 to approve sweeping legislation that averted a government shutdown, locked in billions of dollars of tax breaks and scrapped a 40-year-old ban on

Dr Lobsang Sangay, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), His Holiness the Dalai Lama, John Boehner (R-OH), then Speaker of the House and Eric Cantor (R-VA), House Majority Leader during their meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington DC on March 6, 2014. Photo/Sonam Zoksang

the export of U.S. oil.

The budgetary bill was signed into law by President Barack Obama at a low-key Oval Office ceremony later in the evening on Friday, 18 December.

Dr Lobsang Sangay has visited Washington DC seven times since assuming the office of the Sikyong in 2011 including twice in the last one year. In his meetings with various government and Congressional leaders and their key aides,

Young Tibetan detained after solo protest in Ngaba County of Tibet

the Sikyong and Representative to North America have pressed the case for Tibet.

Separately, the US government had earlier sanctioned funds for the Central Tibetan Administration’s Department of Education, Department of Health and for the Tibetan Computer Resource Centre (TCRC) for internet security.

The sanction of the new fund reflects continued support of the US government for the activities and leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Students for a Free Tibet Canada crowns Mr Tibet Toronto 2015

By Tenzin Chemi: December 29, 2015

Dharamshala - SFT (Students for a Free Tibet) organized a special event to honor the 30 Tibetan political prisoners who were released in 2015 and to stand in solidarity with thousands who are still in prison. They are imprisoned for being defiant. Who were sentenced for refusing to obey. They are tortured for challenging the regime.

They are our source of inspiration and direction. They had a great event with a large number of people joining to pay their respect and homage to these heroes on 26th December 2015, Saturday, 4:00 pm in Youngling Tibetan School in McLeod.

The event also had a talk session by leading Tibetan activists based in Dharamshala and they are Mr. Tenzin Tsundue (Tibetan Activist and Writer), Doctor Lodoe (Education Director of Tibetan Writers Abroad pen), Miss Tsering Tsomo (Tibetan centre for human rights and democracy), Mr. Gonpo Thenley (Former Tibetan Political prisoner in Tibet.) and Mr. Dorjee tseten (Ex Director of SFT) In the beginning of session Miss Tenzin Tselha, (National Director of SFT-India) said few things about how they have been getting funds and supports from the foreign countries and she also said that these prisoners were not released because of China’s sympathy, they are released because their duration in prison was finished as per their case and she also introduce the fellow guest speakers. After that they started the session of offering Tibetan traditional scarf to the portrait of 30 political prisoners by the audience.

Later Mr. Tenzin Tsundue la talked mainly about today’s foreign countries being ignorant about helping Tibet’s Freedom struggle where before helping, they used to think about their profits and take certain action regarding it. Whereas, China being one of most globalised and able to produce low spent product has put a very huge influence to world market which reduce our supporter in foreign countries. He also added that this portrait should be much bigger as they are so many unknown prisoners too and he also honors those political prisoners and he also said that they are his main inspirations.

After him, Doctor Lodoe (Education Director of Tibetan Writers Abroad pen) He talked about Tibetan writers inside Tibet and their major role in preserving our Culture and language. They have been playing important role in shaping the life of Tibetan people inside Tibet with their unique and inspiring writings.

After Doctor Lodoe, Miss Tsering Tsomo (Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy) has talked about the political prisoner where she said that they are so countless Tibetans who are missing and were not in the list of identified personality as a patriot.

She said, “They are approximately around 2081 prisoners and many are still missing and their locations are unknown and 2081 political prisoners are very less numbered known by us. They have been news where our political prisoners are being tortured very harshly and they are also being injected which kills our prisoners slowly.”

After Tsomo la, Mr.Gonpo Thenley (Former Tibetan Political prisoner in Tibet) shared his story of being a political prisoner under the brutal tortures from Chinese government. He also said that now P-2...

Tenzin Dhondup, Mr. Tibet Toronto 2015. Photo: TPI

By Dawa Dolma: December 28, 2015

Tashi Dondup holding a huge portrait of His Holiness before staging his protest in Dzoege, Sichuan, December 19, 2015. Photo: TPI

By Yangchen Dolma: December 23, 2015

Dharamshala — Source coming out of Tibet says a Tibetan man was detained by Chinese police in Dzoege County, Ngaba, North-eastern Tibet, after staging a lone protest against the Chinese government’s repressive policies.

“Tashi Dhondup, a young Tibetan was arrested by Chinese authorities following a solo protest against China’s suppression of religious freedom and Tibetan culture, on December 19, 2015,” a Tibetan living in exile with close contacts in the region told the Tibet Post International.

Dressing in traditional Tibetan attire with a Buddhist flag on his shoulder and holding a huge portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in his hands, Dhondup took to the main street of Ngaba’s Dzoege county, protest against China’s repressive policies in Tibet.

“The security forces immediately arrived at the spot and arrested Dondup,” he said, adding that “the current condition

and whereabouts of Dhondup remain unknown.”

Sources stated that Dondup’s uncle, Yeshe, aged 30, was also detained by the Chinese authorities the following day.

Dhondup was born in in Section 3 of Ponkya village in Thangkor township in Ngaba (Ch: Aba China’s Sichuan Province) and lives with his mother.

Hundreds of Tibetans, including writers, bloggers, singers and environmentalists, have been detained or are imprisoned since 2008, after attempting to express their views or share news of the situation in Tibet with the outside world, and provides further evidence of a widespread crackdown against free expression in Tibet.

Sporadic demonstrations challenging Chinese repressive rule have continued in Tibet since widespread protests swept the region in 2008, with more than 140 Tibetans to date setting themselves ablaze to oppose Beijing’s repression and call for freedom in Tibet and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Toronto — On December 26, five male contestants competed for the title of ‘Mr Tibet Toronto’ organized by Students for a Free Tibet Canada. Five Tibetans from Toronto showcased their talents, physique, and public speaking skills, for the new title of Mr Tibet Toronto, judged by Fashion Designer Tenzin Shamphel, North America’s Mr Tibet 2011 Lobsang Sultrim, and Tibetan Women’s Association of Ontario Executive Namgyal Dolkar.

After two hours of dances, songs, and music, the top competitor, and the first Mr. Tibet Toronto was revealed to be Tenzin Dhondup.

“I focused and took this competition very seriously, and I feel it paid off.” said Tenzin Dhondup, who was born in Nepal, and currently studies music along his regular schooling in Toronto. He added, “Now that I have this title, I am ready to take my responsibility as a Tibetan and stand for the rights of all Tibetans. I want to work towards the dream of every Tibetan, to step in and represent our fatherland, with the blessing of his Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

This event was the first of its kind, according to Sonam Chokey, the National Director of Students for a Free Tibet Canada. She added, “At SFT, we believe that young Tibetan men need role models in exile. Asserting Tibetan national identity is an act of resistance and also an important political statement that needs to be made through events like Mr. Tibet.”

Students for a Free Tibet Canada aims to build off the success of this event and continue this as an annual event, with a hope of getting more contestants for the consequent years.

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TPI NEWS

December 31, 2015

FEATURE

Interview with President of Tibetan Women’s Association Translated by Jampa Nyendak

If a man treats a woman immorally, she can’t speak out in our community. Tashi Dolma, the president of Tibetan woman’s association was interviewed by The Tibet post on 15, September 2014.

Journalist: first of all, I on behalf of all staffs of The Tibet post would like to say thank you very much for giving such a crucial chance to interview with you.

TPI: Please tell us about yourself?

Tashi La: My name is Tashi Dolma. I came from Tibet and then studied in Darlahose School. Due to shortage of teachers in Tibetan exile society at the time, Tibetan educational department sent me into Stanford’s college for teacher training. After that I served Tibetan children’s village and Dhardun AST School for 19 years. Besides teaching I also take a part and joined in Usang regional parliament membership. From 1997 to 2003 I worked and served in central Tibetan woman’s association. In total it’s been 15 years in Tibetan woman’s association.

TPI: What are those activities and programs of Tibetan woman’s association which contribute for solving Tibet issues?

Tashi La: It was 10th march 1949, communist China came to invade Tibet and many Tibetan women from all parts of Tibet came hand in hand and stood against the brutal invasion of the red army. So Tibetan women’s association took birth at that moment and its purpose is all for Tibet cause. It was actually materialized on 12th march 1959. And it’s clear that the primary aims for establishing such an organization is to protect one’s culture, language, religion, people and country.

On that particular date (12th march 1959), thousands of Tibetan women went to appeal those embassies in Lhasa for supporting them and also they took a peaceful march in the Lhasa streets as a reaction to the immoral occupation of one’s country. Many Tibetan women were dead under the red army ‘s guns and more than 60 women were captured. Later all those women who were arrested during the culture revolution were sent in three different places of Chinese prison. There are Nyimo, Xigazi and Sera of Lhasa and all those women were tortured unimaginably and inhumanely. They were forced to admit that Tibet is a part of China. But sadly those captured women didn’t listen Chinese transparent lies. So they all were executed. This is the tragically story behind this organization. And all Tibetan women from three provinces of Tibet had tool part and contributed in it. So this is how Tibetan women’s association came into existence.

Tibetan women’s association is built not only for women’s right but also for Tibet cause. 10th September 1984, Tibetan women’s association was reestablished in exile. Now it has representative branches in 56 regions and 17000 members. So if we say in few words, Tibetan women’s association stands for truth. To seek the truth, it’s very impotent to improve and develop a women’s ability.

TPI: Can you illustrate and figure out some of important points aspects of those activities and movements in your organization.

Tashi La: This is central and headquarters of Tibetan women’s association and we have women’s empowerment department which looks after women’s ability and how to develop a wholeness of a women.

We also have environment al section which primarily looks for Tibet’s natural resources and environment.

Chinese government is destroying Tibet’s natural resources like minerals, rivers, trees, and so on. They also were dragging nomads from their native places to the cities. This is really a dangerous situation. We make short films about these critical issues and wherever we get chances we show it up on the stages. For example if there is any meeting of UNO aspect of environmental issues, we seek opportunity to show the videos and

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distribute books. Every year, on environment day we hold and organize different programs according to it for example if environment day is for water, we both regional and central organizations will hold activities related with water and so on. And also we have research section and journalism department too. The research section examines Tibetan women’s status and human rights inside of Tibet. Chinese government is trying every possible way to destroy human rights inside of Tibet. So, after careful research we appeal and send the detail information to the UNO. TPI: Based upon women’s empowerment, what kind of activities which Tibetan women’s association hold?

Tashi La: We organise different workshops in every Tibetan settlements in exile. There are workshops like “women’s empowerment “,” a young woman’s responsibility”, “woman’s responsibility and leadership”, and “pre-matured and teenage girl’s responsibility”. In the last particular workshop, it is participating by woman from both government organizations and other lay-woman too. From 2013 onward, we hold a new workshop which is all about what rights of a woman and a child can have according to Indian constitution. We are introducing is done to a woman, like rape case.

TPI: Well, unlike men, why woman’s empowerment should be improved. What is the reason?

Tashi La: In exile, 50% of population is consisting by woman; therefore it’s important to improve woman’s empowerment. For example, Tibetan woman’s association is run by woman and in future it also has to be run by woman. So naturally it’s important and crucial to develop woman’s empowerment. So right now, proper education should be provided to woman and politics also should be taught to woman.

As a woman’s proper responsibility will lead a better and prosperous country. That’s why I feel it’s very important to improve woman’s empowerment.

TPI: What programs are practiced on that?

Tashi La: We have provided many workshops and we saw that we were able to make differences for some people even in few days. For example there are few people who are scared to even pronounce their name on the stage. But as the workshop goes by days to weeks and weeks to months to years, people gradually used to it and built their own determination and confidence. Whether it is in a family, school or even in society , we couldn’t bring up woman’s empowerment legally as our woman are not able to speak up against the exploitation by male society. They hide the mistreatment in themselves. This becomes their habit and it serves no good to themselves as well as to others too. It even fuels the bully things once others can predict that woman won’t raise their voices.

We think that to some extent, our workshops helped in getting rid of such things and also helped in creating a harmonious and well-mannered society. For example, we are called and reported issues directly if any such exploitation occurred in school. Such things have to be reported orderly to the respective local administration and village leader without remaining unheard, any illegal thing has to be brought up to law suit and seek legal support. We feel somehow it is getting better.

TPI: What were the major issues during your working period?

Tashi La: For example, Tibetan woman’s association has been organized various activities related to Tibetan struggle and issues. It is not an easy task to say we contributed a lot to our society because since we were depended on others. When we were organized the activities we feel that we did an achievement because yesterday there was a conference happened in UN related to Tibetan issues and struggle that time we submitted an appeal book. We believe that appeal book become a vital subject to discuss. Not only that but also

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Dr Franz Pahl Mr Thomas Kemeil Mr Shalinder Kumar Ven Thupten Yarphel

Former speaker of South Tyrol, Italy A software engineer, Austria A professional graphic designer, India A Tibetan writer, India

Editor in Chief Yeshe Choesang Chinese Editor Keary Huang Tibetan Editor Choneyi Sangpo Assistant Editor Dawa Phurbu Project Manager Molly Lortie Taipei Photographer Artemas Liu Layout & Design Choneyi Sangpo Circulation Tsering Samdhup

Contributors to this editon

Yeshe Choesang India Choenyi Sangpo India Keary Huang Taiwan Dawa Phurbu India Victor Reyes US Tsetan Dorjee India Tashi Dolma India Garima Pura India Tenzin Chemi India Jampa Nyendak India Tsering Norbu India Sean Ray US Greg Davisi US Dawa Dolma India Steve Shaw UK Himalayan Literacy Trust Room #, Top Floor, New Varuni House Temple Road, McLeod Ganj: 176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P., India

E-mail: editor@thetibetpost.com Skype: dhardhophonya1959 Mobile: +91-9882423566 www.thetibetpost.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/tpinews

we had submitted petition letter for the sake of 135 self –immolators issue. We strongly raise our voice to the world people and Indian government to pay more attention towards the current Tibetan issues and let them to know why 135 Tibetan has self –immolated.

For these issue we had been organized many activities at the different level and requested to world and Indian people to do deep research on this issue. So far whatever world has done toward Tibet is because of organizing these kinds of activities. So therefore I felt like that. In generally achievement has no clearance and big shape because these kinds of framework or activities have to be continued, so far whatever we organized had earned support from people this shows we are doing something good.

TPI: Except above questions do you have any other important subjects would like to share with us?

Tashi La: For the woman’s empowerment, we are visiting to different places to give services and to be done with issues regard on it. It is clear enough to say that we have good results in terms of woman’s engagement in helping each others. Our basic principle is middle way approach in three languages like, “Tibetan”, “English”, “Chinese”, so we thought the distribution of the books on introduction and approach has brought a great benefit to the foreigners on Tibet issues.

Jamba Nyendak is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. He currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

The Tibet Post International

Living standards Of a Tibetan Laphing vendor

By Tashi Dolma: December 29, 2015

Dharamshala -There are many Tibetan street venders who has different living standard.

Some are very poor and they have their own story behind their livelihood depending on such a petty business in the street. The Tibet post international interviewed with one of Tibetan street vender who faced severe problems in her life and now lives her life by selling Laphing on the street of Dharamshala.

Could you introduce yourself with your brief life story?

My name is Tamding Wangmo. I am 49 years old. I came from Chamdo county of Kham region. I have studied till 9th standard in village school. After that I did manual works such as grazing animals. We are nomad.

My family is a big family. I have 4 younger brothers and two younger sisters. I am the oldest of all. Unforturenately, both of my parents passed away after I came to India. In India, I joined Unemployment Association of Tibet for three years and I did any kind of works which were given such as washing clothes,

Tibetan Market in Dehradun– The only source of Income for fewer

By Dawa Dolma: December 28, 2015

Dehradun – A Tibetan market consisting around 180 shops have been set at Dehradun near parade ground at pant road and 20 or more shops at Rispenahpur.

Since then the Tibetans belonging to Deckyiling, Clemen Town and Rajpur settlement has been living their life relying on the earnings gained from selling the varieties of wearing and bags as well.

According to a source, before the year 1982, same market has been set at Indra Market of the district however with the new constructions done there for some other purposes, Tibetan market was made to shift at the present venue.

Tsewang Rinzin, a 53 years old man spent his life by selling the clothes around him in a 5.5 feet shop for over more than thirty years. “Right after few years of coming from Bhutan in year 1982, I have started this penny business and now it has been so many years that me and my family has been depending our life on this beside certain side incomes from rest of the family. This business has become part and parcel of my life” cried Tsewang.

He also stated that the earnings from this business is more than sufficient for him and his family to live a happy and contented life. He brings a packed lunch from his home and haves it at shop everyday even though there is presence of many Tibetan restaurants nearby saying the foods from those restaurants are limited that his stomach couldn’t be filled well and he also enjoys his home made foods more as well. He never hires other people to work for him in his shop unlike few others from the market association.

Tibetan Market Association in Dehradun is not a seasonal market where it is used to be in rest of the other Tibetan sweater business. Tsering Lhamo, who has been in the market for 3 years now said that there is no holiday as such in the market during the winter season however the shops of the market are closed for any significant Tibetan festivals like new year (Losar), Birthday

HONORING 30 POLITICAL ...

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a days people are being said that Chinese Government is being little careless regarding certain events but they aren’t being careless and those prisoner who were released are not being released because they had sympathy on them or gets careless but they were released because their duration in prison was over and releasing them is not the end of torture. They are being watched by few officers secretly and as for Mr. Gonpo he is not allowed to go to Khartse Zong and he also had to sign weekly to their regional officers. He said, “If I and my fellow political prisoners again try to do something, then we will be going back to the jail.”

After him, Mr. Dorjee Tseten (Ex Director of SFT) talked about over all program of 2015 and huge focus on self-immolations inside Tibet and as a result they are less number of self-immolator comparing last year. He said, “We have 7 people and out of seven, four are female which shows huge involvement of women in freedom struggle. In recent years most of the self-immolators are common people and at beginning of it, most of them are monks and nuns. In previous year they have been so many self immolations and later they were lesser in number.

However, we have some solo protests and this made many Tibetans get arrested.” He also said that there have been many ways to protest against the Chinese Government for invading our home-land.

In addition to this, they have organized a hand print painting where people had to put the tri-colors of Tibetan National flag i.e. red, yellow and blue on their hand and must copy it on the painting board and an artist created it more relatable with SFT’S logo on it.

Tenzin Chemi is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. He currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama (Trungkar), Saka Dawa, 10th March (Sumchu Dudren), 10th December (Nobel Peace prize anniversary to His Holiness the Dalai Lama) and many more.

She also added that the every month’s Tuesday of the week is holiday for the marketers during the summer season. Another business women, Nyima Dolma said that she has been in the market for over 6 years now and she used to have very good profit and earning from 5 years back but the profits are doomed now over a year.

According to her, this tragedy is because of the increasing the costs of every goods or commodities from the place where they transports them i.e. from Delhi and Ludhiana. She also said, “There is more profits and earnings during the weekends where the famous Sunday market of Dehradun meets nearby and several customers shop along with it”.

The market has one mini Buddhist temple locating same lines of the shops. The temple has been built with funds from market association and this temple is considered as a symbol of their luck and prosperous in the business. Thus, the market with its hub and permanent nature keeps a unique yet familiar feeling among the Tibetan people living there.

Dawa Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

Third leadership workshop ...

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Tsering and Mr. Ngawang Rabgyal, Section heads of the Department of Education and the dealing staff were also present at the inauguration.

Sikyong, Dr. Lobsang Sangay addressed the students and teachers of workshop by speaking on the role of education in society and for being self-reliant while growing for the betterments. He also gave significance to achieve the good leadership skills to serve in our society. Speaking of having ambition in every student’s life, Dr. Sangay shared a short story of how he first heard the word “ambition” when he was in his VIII standard from his friend. He emphasized that Class X is a critical point in a student’s life where one has to take the initial step towards their respective careers. He said that at this level of time, all the fellow students of class X must have proper and decisive thoughts about ones ambition. One ought to be assured of what one wants to become and how one can contribute to the community. He also added, “Your thoughts and motives should transmute into ambitions and then that ambition into actions and realities”.

Mr.Ngodup Tsering, Education Kalon delivered the students that they are the future leaders of Tibet and they should make best use of the opportunities and platforms through the eight-day workshop. He also spoke about famous quote of US president, John F Kennedy that we should never ask what our country can do for us but should always ask what we can do for our country sending the message that the Tibetan youths should learn to serve our community rather asking the community to serve us.

The eight days of workshop inaugurated on 26th of December 2015 will conclude on 2nd January 2016. The workshop consists of various leading talks by respective resource person and they will have 20 periods in total which includes sports and sight-seeing of Tibetan government Departments, talent shows on dance and dramatics etc.

The initial session of the workshop was conducted by Sikyong himself following a questions and answers session at the end. Other resource persons include the Speaker of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile Mr. Penpa Tsering, Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives Ven. Geshe Lhakdor, Department of Information and International Relations Kalon Dicki Chhoyang among many others. They will speak on a wide-range of subjects such as ‘Evolution of Tibetan Democracy’, ‘How to Become a 21st century Buddhist, ‘The Practice of Non-violence’ and ‘The Current Political Situation in Tibet’.

Dawa Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

Tamdin Wangmo in her Laphing selling stall. Photo: Tashi Dolma

sweeping and construction of the road etc.

Before passing away of my father, I sometimes used to contact and send letter to him. Maybe it was once or twice per a year. But after my parents’ death, I didn’t kept any contact with my relatives, brothers and sisters and also I don’t have any willingness to contact with them because they all are very busy with their own life. It is very difficult for them to take care of me and I don’t want to make them worry. I feel alone even as of now as both of my parents passed away, a mere thought of them makes me miss them a lot. Now, every place is same for me since there is no one as parents so, I don’t have any plan to go back to Tibet either until Tibet will become an independent nation.

What was the biggest problem you’ve faced in your life until now?

Yes, I’ve faced many problems in my exile life.

Firstly, I got an accident by auto rickshaw at Bodhgaya and it harmed my brain. People said that I would become a mad. I was so scared and I didn’t have enough money to pay for my medical fees. I don’t have relatives in India either but a Tibetan Lama called Dhardun Rinpoche helped me to pay some amount and rest paid by other Tibetan people who helped me. Secondly, I had a boyfriend who is called Tenzin Nyima from Tawo county of Kham region. He cheated me and we went to Minali because he said that he would take care of me as much as he could and said that I don’t have to do anything. Hence, I believed in his words and we moved all my things there. We spent three months together but since I after reaching there, he changed and his behavior was very bad towards me and beat me badly every day.

He took all of the money I have earned. So, in order to escape from him, I tried to lend money from a Tibetan woman but she didn’t lend me money but a Tibetan monk borrowed me some amount and then I escaped from him to Dharamshala. After that I heard that he used to cheat three other Tibetan girls also. And then I didn’t have any money and I sold Tibetan butter tea of two kettles around the Temple for one day. And I earned some money for my monthly expenditure. Most of the time I could not even earn enough money for my monthly payments too. Even as of now, there is rarely few people who buys laphing since its winter and cold here and so I still face problems like lack of money to pay for my monthly rent, electricity and water bills.

How and why did you come to India?

In order to get an audience of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, I crossed Himalaya to reach Tibetan Reception Centre at Nepal by foot for over more than twenty days in year 2010.

Within those days, we got food shortages and it was very difficult to escape through the heavy snowfalls. And some of us could not walk due to the cold weather. We have 15 people in total as a team while fleeing from Tibet. Some of them are monks and some are nuns. We faced many problems. At that time I was 43 years old.

Did you have any message to the younger Tibetan generations?

Usually, I don’t tell anything to the younger generations of Tibet because they hardly listen to elder’s good indented advices. But sometimes I used to tell Tibetan girls that they should take care of themselves and must be clever while dealing with boys as there are boys in our society who cheats and ruins the life of many girls. Therefore, Tibetan girls shouldn’t be obedient and gentle when it comes to fight your rights in the society while being treated badly boys or anyone else in the community.

That’s all.

Thank You. Tashi Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

China set to impose severe restrictions in Tibet to curtail movement

Tibet News

December 31, 2015

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Senior Tibet official urges Beijing to tackle discrimination against minorities

By Yeshe Choesang: December 23, 2015

People’s Liberation Army in full riot gear marches in Ngaba (Ch: Aba) in Tibet’s Amdo province on 30 November 2011. Photo: file

By Yangchen Dolma: December 24, 2015

Dharamshala — The Chinese government has imposed a series of repressive measures since 2008 to restrict the flow of Tibetans going abroad and those who intend to visit Tibet. The number of Tibetans going abroad from outside the so-called “Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR)” has steadily increased since 2013.

The Tibetan administration media said that Tibetans flying back to Chengdu from Kathmandu are forced to de-board at Gongkar Airport near Lhasa, and are required to get their baggage rechecked at the airport.

The level of restriction in Tibetan areas outside “TAR” has been relatively less as compared to the ongoing repressive policies in “TAR”. The Chinese government believes that the overall situation in “TAR” has been stable since 2008 as a result of their hard-hitting campaign against what they call “splittist movements”.

The decision to allow foreign delegations and also the easing of restrictions on foreign tourists visiting Tibet since last year is an indication of the Chinese government’s growing confidence of its policies in “TAR”.

As a result, sources report that the Chinese government is keen to replicate the same repressive policies in other Tibetan areas from the year 2016. The Chinese government’s decision to include other Tibetan areas in the Fifth and Sixth Work Forum on Tibet is definitely seen as an indication of Party’s intention to impose a centrally unified policy in all the Tibetan areas.

Confirmed reports also suggest that it is extremely difficult to obtain passports for Tibetans residing in “TAR”. Few Tibetans who were able to obtain passports and visit Nepal have been stringently warned by authorities to avoid visiting India or face severe penalties.

They must report their arrival and return the passport to the authorities.

Number of Tibetans escaping from Tibet has dramatically dropped from an average of 2500 per year before 2008 to only 74 in 2015. It substantiates the Tibetan people’s claim of Chinese government’s unprecedented regulation on movement of Tibetans within Tibet and their strict control along the Nepalese border.

Dharamshala — A top Tibetan official in Tibet has urged that the central government needed to do more to tackle discrimination of ethnic minorities at railway stations, airports and ports in China, including Tibet Autonomous region, China’s state-controlled media said Tuesday, December 22.

Ethnic minorities are sometimes discriminated against when going through security checks at railway stations, airports, ports and border crossings, or when checking into hotels or visiting shopping malls, Mr Jampa Phuntsok (Ch: Qiangba Puncog), the Chinese-appointed former governor of Tibet, said in a report reviewed at the 18th meeting of the 12th Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC).

“In recent years, there have been recurring instances where people with ethnic backgrounds, were discriminated against or denied access to certain service trades,” the report quoted him as saying.

Mr Phuntsok said transport hubs and security checks at border posts and hotels had seen this problem. Despite repeated efforts to implement China’s ethnic policies, the problem had “generated unwanted social impact and caused strong public reactions from ethnic regions”, he said, adding that “Such practices which run counter to the regional ethnic autonomy law must be resolutely rectified.”

The report, made by a lawmaker from the so called Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), concerns the work of implementing the law governing regional autonomy for ethnic minorities in China, another state-run media ‘Global Times’ said in its report without identifying the Tibetan official.

Discrimination problems have not been eradicated despite the efforts of the cabinet and many governmental departments to correct them by issuing documents concerning such issues, and the problems have caused “strong dissatisfaction” among people in ethnic areas, the report said.

The report claimed that this is the second time

Senior Citizens and their home at Tibetan settlement in Dehradun

By Dawa Dolma: December 24, 2015

Dehradun – Old peopleare the citizens of the past and they are the forefathers and mothers that tasted the hardships of early exile life. They are the people who built insurance to rest of us who are idly walking around leaving them in an alien house filled with people like them instead exchanging heartfelt conversations with their children and grandchildren.

Henceforth, the Old People’s Home is where all the aged people from different backgrounds of having abandoned family or some other who has none are gathered in a hostel-likehome under the certain in-charge and other staffs to look after their well-being and cleanliness.

The old people’s home at Clemen Town of the Dehradun district is under the incharge of Lobsang and according to him, the home is owned by an organization called Doekham Chushi Gangdruk whose office locates at Delhi and his wife undertakes the responsibility of food and cleanliness of the senior citizens there.

There are seven old people presently and to our sadness, many of them passed away due to certain health circumstances. Lobsang also added that maximum old people set to have in concerned home is 16 and two person share a room. The food is generally good and healthy and they used to get momo (steamed dumpling) every Sunday.

Talking with Lobsang Wangdue, a 70 years old grandfather, he has been in the old people’s home for over four years now and he has no family to look after him at this age. In the words of Lobsang Wangdue, “I came from Kham Nangchen (eastern part of Tibet) and I have been living my life before four years at Agling settlement of Ladakh doing manual works like road constructions and have been depending my livelihood on daily wages”.

He also said that he has very poor eyesight since as a kid besides looking hale and

1. Clemen Town old people home, 2. Rajpur Old people’s home, 3. Popo Lobsang Wangdue in his room and 4.

Old Home for old people in Rajpur. Photo: TPI/Dawa Dolma

healthy physically and he has done two major operations but both wasn’t too successful to let him see the things too clear. The cause of this weak eye-sighted was due to the bright sun-rays fallen direct on his eyes when he was a kid fleeing from Tibet along with his parents on the back of a Yak. Another welcoming home for the Tibetan old people is at Rajpur, where a neat and bigger building was built by 41stSakyaTrizin on April 2011 unlike past low-spaced and small roofed house. Lobsang, the in-charge of the home said that this home is under the Tibetan Homes Foundation Mussoorie and there are 59 old people at the moment and 99 rooms including staff rooms which consists of four motherly women undertaking the responsibility of their cleanliness, two cooks and the in-charge himself. Out of 59 people, almost 30 of them could neither walk well nor move freely and so their foods are served in their respective rooms.

Richoe, a 74 years old person said that he is generally an army and has no one as a family.

He has been thus staying in old people’s home for over eight years now. He was shifted from Lakhandpur old people’s home where many exarmies live in. Another old man, Phunstok, 70 years old told that he is from Kollegal Settlement of the south India. Although he has no children but has some close relatives that remain busy in their life but they sometimes manage to come and meet him with some good stuffs.

The old people’s home at Deckyiling settlement is private and has just one person. The senior aged people should be taken care as a new born child for they are in the midst of their second childhood stage of life. They should be served with affection and smoothness as they must remain calm, relaxed and loved for the remaining and counting days of their life.

Dawa Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

Mr Jampa Phuntsok, deputy to the 11th National People’s Congress (NPC) answers questions during a meeting with journalists at the press center of the Third Session of the 11th NPC in Beijing, China, March 7, 2010.

(Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

that the NPC Standing Committee has inspected the enforcement of the law on regional autonomy in the last 31 years since it took effect. The report also pointed out that ethnic autonomous regions face more pressure to build an affluent society than other parts of the country.

In 2014, the economies of 30 autonomous prefectures across the country combined were smaller than that of the city of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, it said. Basic infrastructure in those regions also lags behind that in other parts of China.

Of the country’s 138 border counties, 109 are located in autonomous regions, and as of 2013, 99 of them had no expressways. Some 6.1 million people in border counties lack electricity, it said. So called Han Chinese constitute approximately 93% of the population of China.

China has tightened its grip on national security in response to the threats of terrorism and separatism, especially in Tibet and East Turkestan (Ch:

Xinjiang), where more stringent security measures are in place, the Global Times report.

Chinese occupied territories like Tibet, East Turkestan and Inner Mongolia, which are officially self-governing regions with large minority populations, are supposed to have large-scale autonomy, though in reality, Beijing holds the reins.

Security was stepped up in Tibet in the last few years following a spate of self immolation protest against Chinese government’s repressive policies and denial of the fundamental freedom of the Tibetan people.

Beijing recently claimed a “golden age for Tibet,” but, the Central Tibetan Administration says, neither economic benefit nor basic freedom is granted to the Tibetan people. “Tibetan people continue to suffer political repression, economic marginalization, social discrimination, cultural assimilation and environmental destruction under China’s authoritarian rule.”

By Yeshe Choesang: December 20, 2015

As a result, sources report that the Chinese government is keen to replicate the same repressive policies in other Tibetan areas from the year 2016. The Chinese government’s decision to include other Tibetan areas in the Fifth and Sixth Work Forum on Tibet is definitely seen as an indication of Party’s intention to impose a centrally unified policy in all the Tibetan areas.

Confirmed reports also suggest that it is extremely difficult to obtain passports for Tibetans residing in “TAR”. Few Tibetans who were able to obtain passports and visit Nepal have been stringently warned by authorities to avoid visiting India or face severe penalties.

They must report their arrival and return the passport to the authorities.

Number of Tibetans escaping from Tibet has dramatically dropped from an average of 2500 per year before 2008 to only 74 in 2015. It substantiates the Tibetan people’s claim of Chinese government’s unprecedented regulation on movement of Tibetans within Tibet and their strict control along the Nepalese border.

Thousands visit science exhibition

by Sera Jey Secondary School Dharamshala — The Chinese government has imposed a series of repressive measures since 2008 to restrict the flow of Tibetans going abroad and those who intend to visit Tibet. The number of Tibetans going abroad from outside the so-called “Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR)” has steadily increased since 2013.

The Tibetan administration media said that Tibetans flying back to Chengdu from Kathmandu are forced to de-board at Gongkar Airport near Lhasa, and are required to get their baggage rechecked at the airport.

The level of restriction in Tibetan areas outside “TAR” has been relatively less as compared to the ongoing repressive policies in “TAR”. The Chinese government believes that the overall situation in “TAR” has been stable since 2008 as a result of their hard-hitting campaign against what they call “splittist movements”.

The decision to allow foreign delegations and also the easing of restrictions on foreign tourists visiting Tibet since last year is an indication of the Chinese government’s growing confidence of its policies in “TAR”.

Buddhist nuns listening to a monk, about an exhibit related to water at Sera Jey Secondary School in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 15, 2015. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

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December 31, 2015

TPI NEWS

H.H T HE D ALAI L AMA

His Holiness the Dalai Lama inaugurates new Sera Pobhor assembly hall

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the inauguration of Pobhor Khangtsen’s new assembly hall at Sera Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 15, 2015. Photo: TPI

By Yeshe Choesang: December 16, 2015

Bylakuppe, Karnataka — The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama inaugurated the new assembly hall of the Pobhor Khangtsen of Sera Mey Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 15, 2015.

His Holiness unveiled a plaque and cut the ribbon across the door to inaugurate the new assembly hall. Some of the several thousand monastics gathered to listen to His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Sera Mey Monastery.

Among those dignateries in attendance were head of the Gelug School, His a Eminence Gaden Tripa; Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, political leader of Tibetan people; Tibetan MPs and NGO representatives.

His Eminence Kyabje Gosok Rinpoche offered the mandala and three representations of the enlightened body, speech and mind. His Holiness then gave a succinct transmission of Je Tsongkhapa’s ‘Three Principles of the Path’.

“Je Rinpoche said we should not be content with a rough understanding of the teachings, but should study all kinds of texts. We should aspire not only to be scholars, but to also

apply the teachings as he did. He practised day and night, and abandoned the eight worldly concerns. We should follow his example and not approach our studies the way we might hoard possessions in our rooms.”

His Holiness said that Ngawang Drakpa had requested advice and received this text, ‘Three Principles of the Path’ in response. He said that he had received it from both Tagdrak Rinpoche and Trijang Rinpoche. His Holiness described the three principles, the determination to be free, the awakening mind of bodhichitta and the wisdom understanding emptiness, explained here in terms of dependent arising, and concluded with the advice that ends the text: “There have been many great scholars from Sera Mey. Just as I told the monks of Phukhang Khangtsen at Ganden, you are the original members of the Pobhor Khangtsen, who followed my advice about Dolgyal.

“Of course, I originally did the practice too, but after thorough examination I found that it wasn’t any good. So after conducting several investigations, I stopped the practice. Both my Tutors were then alive. I reported my findings and my decision to cease the practice to Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche. He approved of the measures

I had taken. It’s not as if I was doing anything behind his back. He was pleased with the steps I had taken.

“Monks of Ganden Jangtse had reported untoward incidents to do with the monastery to Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche. He told them that they were a result of Palden Lhamo’s displeasure and they approached me for advice about what to do. My investigations confirmed that Palden Lhama was involved and that her displeasure was about Dolgyal.

I told Serkhong Rinpoche and the Abbot of Namgyal Monastery discreetly that I advised the monks to stop their Dolgyal practice. I did so out of concern for the welfare of the Buddhadharma among Tibetans and for the flourishing of Je Tsongkhapa’s tradition.

Instead of supporting that tradition practice of Dolgyal has brought about sectarian tension.”

Sera Monastery is one of the 4 Great Monasteries of Tibet. Traditionally Sera Mey has 16 houses.

Pobhor Khangtsen among 13 houses of the monastery have been re-established in exile. The houses take care of the sheltering and other basic needs of the monk students. Each house has it’s own prayer hall, hostel, kitchen. According to the monastery, there are 1755 monks, including the scholars, Tulkus, Senior monks and graduated Geshes across the abroad countries.

His Holiness’s arrival at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe

His Holiness the Dalai Lama arriving the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, South India, on December 18, 2015. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesng

By Victor Reyes: December 20, 2015

Bylakuppe -— On December 18, 2015, the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama cut the ribbon for

Tibetan govt, parliament express condolence at Taklung Tsetrul’s demise

We’re following nonviolent path, will not give in: Tibet’s spiritual leader

His Holiness the Dalai Lama meeting with senior Sera monks who originally escaped from Tibet in 1959 before attending the Mind & Life XXX conference at Sera Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 16, 2015. Photo/ Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

By Yeshe Choesang: December 18, 2015

Bylakuppe, Karnataka — Tibetans are “following a non-violent path; we are united and will not give in,” The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said while speaking to a group of senior Tibetan monks, at Sera Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, South India, on December 16.

The spiritual leader of Tibet met a group of 72 senior Sera monks who were among those who originally escaped from Tibet in 1959, after a brutal suppression of the Tibetan people in Tibetan capital Lhasa and after the Chinese invasion of Tibet.

After greeting and teasing several of them individually, His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed the group of senior Buddhist monks.

“When we first came to Missamari in Assam we didn’t know what to do. We believed the truth of our cause would eventually prevail.

But in Missamari it was hot remote and the food was poor. Many of you monks fell ill,” His Holiness told them.

“We thought of shifting to another place, but the Abbots felt that if they were dispersed many of the monks would disrobe, so it was better to stay together where they were. Eventually we were able to realize a plan to establish settlements elsewhere and you were able to

come together to South India.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama also expressed his appreciation for their hard work for Tibet’s unique national, cultural and religious identity, which is seriously threatened and manipulated by the Chinese.

“You are the monks who worked hard to preserve our tradition in those hard times, you had faith in me, and I thank you,” said the spiritual leader while praising them for being faithful to him and for their good work.

His Holiness spoke about the Chinese Communist Party’s oppressive treatment of Tibetan Buddhist culture. “As the Chinese have found they can’t uproot our religious culture, they have been forced to interpret our dedication to it as an expression of an urge for separatism. However, we are following a non-violent path; we are united and will not give in.”

“In the past, monks used to come to our monasteries from Mongolia and China. Now we have people coming to join us from places that have not traditionally been Buddhist, scientists among them,” he said.

“We’ve seen ups and downs in Tibetan history, but we still remain together because of the dedication of our great religious kings in the past,” His Holiness told the senior Tibetan Buddhist monks.

“Nowadays people offer Long Life Offerings, but the time will come when we have to go. It’s the same for you, and when that time comes what you’ve learned and practised of the Buddha’s teachings will be important,” he further said.

“I’m giving each of you a statue of the Buddha.

Keep it in your room and recite Nagarjuna’s verse of salutation to the Buddha as I do.”

In the aftermath of the invasion, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and more than 80,000 Tibetans fled into exile in nearby India. Since 1950s, the Chinese have killed a quarter of the population—about 1.2 million people out of 6 million—and have destroyed almost all of the six thousand monasteries that once existed.

His Eminence Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche (1926 – 2015). Photo: File

By Yangchen Dolma: December 24, 2015

Dharamshala — The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile expressed profound grief on the demise of His Eminence Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche, the spiritual head of the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism.

Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, December 23 at the holy city of Bodh Gaya. He passed away in Bodh Gaya at the age of 89.

T h e K a s h a g o f t h e C e n t r a l Ti b e t a n Administration led by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay expressed its profound condolences and prayed for the quick rebirth of Rinpoche.

“I am extremely sorry to hear the demise of His Eminence Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche and offer my deepest condolences to all his followers and devotees. I hope our prayers comfort you and Rinpoche’s blessings continue to guide us through eternity. May His Eminence be reborn soon,” Sikyong, who is currently in Bylaukuppe, said.

The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile said that it “shared deepest condolences to all the followers and devotees and offered prayers for his successful reincarnation.”

His Eminence the 3rd Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche was born in 1926 to Namgyal Dorje and Dorje Dolma of Phunkhang household in central Tibet near the famous Yamdrok Lake. He was recognised as an incarnation of the great master Ngok Chöku Dorje by the 9th Dorje Drak Rinpoche Thubten Choewang, according to a report by the Central Tibetan Administration.

In 1931, when Rinpoche reached five years of age; he was invited to Taktlung Tse monastery and ordained as a novice monk. He was bestowed the title of Tulku Trinley Pal Sangpo by the former Dorje Drak Chusang Rinpoche.

He was then placed under the tutelage of Ven. Geshe Kunsang at the monastery.

When he reached eight years of age, Rinpoche’s dharma seat was shifted to Thubten Dorje Drak monastery where he took his renunciation

The Tibet Post International

vows from Minling Dorzin Namdol Gyatso Rinpoche.

Rinpoche received his full ordination (Gelong) vows from Khenchen Ngawang Khentse Norbu Rinpoche. After his full ordination, Rinpoche underwent a rigorous study under the guidance of numerous scholars and teachers to learn the many aspects of Buddhist scriptures and practice, particularly specialising in the Ngagyur Nyingma tradition.

At Dorje Drak, Rinpoche also served as the abbot (Khenpo) of the monastery for several years before returning to his original base Taklung Monastery to resume his spiritual service.

However, as circumstances worsened in Tibet after the Chinese occupation in 1959, Rinpoche escaped into exile via Bhutan to India. Rinpoche first reached Sikkim, where he was based for two years. Even under the hardship of the early years in exile, Rinpoche continued his study, going on to receive various sacred teachings and transmissions from the renowned teachers of the time including the great 16th Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche, Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche among others.

Since the original Dorje Drak monastery in Tibet was completely destroyed by Chinese forces, Rinpoche was instrumental in rebuilding the Dorje Drak monastery in exile to preserve and expand the teachings of the Nyingma lineage.

In 2012, Rinpoche became the Supreme Head of Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism after the demise of His Eminence Trulsik Rinpoche in 2011.

Rinpoche was based primarily at his monastery in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir for most of his life in exile.

A steadfast practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, Rinpoche continued to give instruction, empowerment and transmission to everyone until his journey into parinirvana on 23 December 2015.

the opening of the new Gompa at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. Arriving to the sounds of long horns blaring and drums, His Holiness proceeded up the stairs to the decorated doors of the new prayer hall.

Prayers were said and the doors were opened as His Holiness made his way to his seat which was made by wood carvers from the Ladakh region of India.

After the initial prayers. His Holiness asked that the abbot of the monastery, Khen Rinpoche Kachen Lobsang Tsetan be brought forward and then shared some very his personal feelings about the event.

His Holiness became very emotional as he outlined some of the history of Tashi Lhunpo, a monastery that was founded by the First Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gedun Drupa, in 1447 and was built in Shigatse, Tsang, Tibet.

Both His Holiness, the Abbott and some people in attendance were moved to tears as he discussed his karmic connection with the monastery as the IVth Dalai Lama and the importance of the event. Among those witnessing this most auspicious event were by Sikong Lobsang Sangay, representatives of the Karnataka state government, monks, lamas, members of Khen Rinpoche Kachen Lobsang Tsetan’s family from Ladakh, and a crowd of over one hundred people from all the reaches of India and the world.

Tashi Lhunpo, which means “all fortune and happiness gathered here” or “heap of glory,” has a rich history and is a major monastery in Tibetan Buddhism. In the 17th century, His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama gave his teacher, Lobsang Choekyi Gyaltsen , then the abbot of Tashi Lhunpo, the title of Panchen Lama. The 5th Dalai Lama declared that the Panchen Lama would be continue to be reborn in an unbroken lineage. The monastery grew and became one of the great. monastic seats of the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama. Over the centuries, many great scholars and monks studied there.

During the Communist Chinese invasion i n 1 9 5 9 , t h o u s a n d s o f Ta s h i L h u n p o monks, including senior lamas and scholars died. Chinese forces destroyed two-thirds of the monasteries’ buildings during the “cultural revolution.” In 1972, 5 monks, who had survived and fled the m o n a s t e r y i n S h i g a t s e , Ts a n g , Ti b e t , began the process of establishing the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in exile at the Tibetan refugee camp in Bylakuppe, India under the guidance and patronage of the XIV Dalai Lama.

The current project began in 2009, when His Holiness blessed the initiative of new main prayer hall with the goal of eventually increasing the monastery population to 1500 monks. Construction on the entire project began in 2010 and the first phase, the Chorea (large debate hall), inaugurated by His Holiness in July, 2013. In 2014, His Holiness accepted an invitation to dedicate the new prayer hall in December, 2015.

The consecration of the hall was held in the morning of December 19, 2015.

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

Exile News

December 31, 2015

5

Gyalwa Yabsey Museum: The lives of His Holiness concludes Lamrim teachings in Bylakuppe the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama

By Jane Cook: December 29, 2015

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, South India, now houses a permanent display at the Gyawa Yabsey Museum featuring a pictorial journey of the lives of His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Panchen Lama. Photo: TPI/Victor Reyes

By Victor Reyes: December 28, 2015

Bylakuppe, Mysore, South India — Tashi Lhunpo Monastery now houses a permanent display at the Gyalwa Yabsey Museum featuring a pictorial journey of the lives of His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Panchen Lama. The exhibit includes rare glimpses into the lives of the two Tibetan masters with a section dedicated to photographs of them together and two other sections depicting their individual life stories, The name of the museum, Gyalwa Yabsey, is taken from the Tibetan “Great Father-Son Duo, the description given by the Tibetan people to the relationship between the two based upon the recognition of each other’s reincarnation.

The Tashi Lhunpo monastery has dedicated this exhibition as “an expression of the Tibetan people’s collective gratitude for the combined great deeds of the great masters of Tibet.”

“This museum is dedicated to His Holiness Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Panchen Lama as an expression of the Tibetan people’s collective gratitude for the combined great deeds of the great masters of Tibet,” said Khen Rinpoche Kachen Lobzang Tsetan, Abbot of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.

“The Dalai Lamas and the Panchen Lamas have accomplished many great deeds for the benefit of all sentient beings, and throughout Tibetan history have worked tirelessly to safeguard the well-being of the Tibetan people. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama have continued that legacy -- one on a global scale in exile and the other, inside Chinese-occupied Tibet. Through this museum, we pay tribute to their life and legacy,” Said Venerable Lobsang Dorjee, President of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery’s Central Association of His Holiness the Panchen Lama.

On display are fifteen Thangkas painted by Artist Kaisang Damchoe whose studio is in Dharamashala. The thangkas depict some of the main events in the Dalai Lama’s life ranging from his birth in Takster, Tibet to his 80th birthday in 2015. Photographs in the exhibition include His Holiness from his official recognition in 1939, meeting with world leaders and humanitarians, and family photos I with his mother and siblings.The photographs on the life and legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the book and the museum were contributed by Tibet Museum, Dharamsala.

There is a display which shows a series of photographs of life in Tibet after the invasion by the Chinese Communist in 1959. The burning of religious artifacts, mistreatment of the Tibet people in Lhasa, and photos of resistance fighters are among some the images that flash across the screen.

The archived photos of the 10th Panchen Lama’s life trace his story from his discovery and later enthronement which occurred on April 15, 1944 . The exhibition includes a powerful image taken on September 18, 1964, where he is being subjected to one of many “thamzing,” a struggle session in which he was verbally assaulted and humiliated in public.

In 1962, the 10th Panchen Lama wrote a 70,000 character petition to Mao Zedong demanding the Communist Chinese government investigate its Tibet policy, from misguided agricultural reforms, religious persecution and systemic racism. The 10th Panchen Lama’s unwavering criticism of the Communist Chinese led to his imprisonment from February 1968 until October 1977.

The Postcards to Beijing section allows visitors to sign a postcard bearing the photograph of the 11th Panchen Lama and included in a dropbox placed alongside. These postcards will be sent annually to the Chinese government on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama on April 25.

The museum also has on display a handful of Tibetan soil that was smuggled by artist Tenzin Rigdol and an installation of netted fabric through which landscape images of Tibet are projected, allowing visitors to walk through the projected images.

A pictorial book, “Gwaya Yabsey” was released by His Holiness in conjunction with the Consecration Ceremony with the first copy presented to the Dalai Lama on December 19, 2015. His Holiness could be seen looking through the book during the ceremonies, from the expression on his face, which ranged from smiles to,sadness, it was clear he was very moved by the photos. The pictorial book, which was released by His Holiness, was authored and edited by Ven Lobsang Dorjee and Tenzin Pema Chari Sharma. The book was designed by Tenzin Thinley. The book includes a section on the two masters together and individual sections

on His Holiness the Dalai Lama, His Holiness the Panchen Lama and the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.

“We have seen great interest for the Gyalwa Yabsey pictorial book from all sections of the society, after His Holiness the Dalai Lama launched the book and was visibly moved by the contents. The first print edition of 1,000 copies is now over and the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery intends to print this again to meet the high demand,” said Tenzin Pema Chari Sharma.

Gyalwa Yabsey Museum evolved from the travelling photo exhibit, which was organized by the Central Association of His Holiness the Panchen Lama on the life of His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama and inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2009 in Dharamsala. Thereafter, it made its way to Bodh Gaya, Varanasi, Ladakh, Bylakuppe and Bangalore in India and Washington D.C., USA. The Museum was curated by Ven Lobsang Dorjee, Tenzin Pema Chari Sharma and Gayatri Ganju and designed by Gayatri Ganju and Avani Tanya. The Museum was sponsored by the Neil Kreitman Foundation, USA in memory of Late Ruth Hayward, Panchen Lama Tashi Lhunpo Project, USA.

Bylakuppe, Karnataka — Over thirty thousand devotees assembled at the main assembly hall premises of the Tashi Lhunpo monastic university for the nine-day teachings on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment (the Jangchub Lam Rim) by the Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

In his remarks prior to the final day of the teachings, the Tibetan leader said he feels privileged to be giving the sermon to over thirty thousand devotees including monks from the four monastic universities.

“Today, we’ll hold a ceremony for generating aspiring bodhichitta, followed by the ceremonial taking of the Bodhisattva Vows.

But before all that I’ll offer the lay person’s vow. First, we’ll say the Seven Limb Prayer together at an easy pace. You need to put your hands together. Let’s do it respectfully. When we’re obsessed with some worldly pursuit we are really excited. Let’s be that eager about our spiritual affairs too.

“One of the sections or limbs of the prayer involves requesting the Buddhas to turn the wheel of Dharma. However, if we were to meet the Buddha and make the request face to face, he might say I’ve already turned the wheel and what I taught is contained in the scriptures. You need to read them.

“You should use your eyes not just for trivial pursuits, but to imbibe the Dharma. You could also listen to recorded teachings by great masters rather than songs from movies. Let’s say the prayer sincerely.”

His Holiness explained the lay person’s vow, observing that you could be like Dromtonpa and take all five precepts to avoid killing, taking what’s not given, lying, sexual misconduct and drinking liquor, as well as the vow of celibacy.

He said it was up to the individual to judge what he or she could keep.

He told the story of Ling Rinpoche’s having given these lay vows and an elderly man

Thousands of devotees attending the Jangchub Lam Rim teachings by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 25, 2015. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

dismayed to hear that he had promised to give up liquor told Rinpoche, ‘I can’t do that’. In kindness, Ling Rinpoche told him that if he couldn’t stop drinking altogether he could at least cut back and avoid getting drunk.

His Holiness mentioned that the ‘Precious Garland’ (Ratnavali) recommends avoiding the ten unwholesome actions and adds six more, such as not drinking liquor, not engaging in wrong livelihood and not harming others. He said this last precept, not to do others harm is very important. He counselled his listeners to take refuge in the Buddha, his teaching and those who have already acquired its qualities.

“Be determined to generate the Dharma within yourself,” he said. “The first Dalai Lama, Gendun Drup, advised ‘Crush this enemy, the disturbing emotions, within you’. Aspire for liberation, which is freedom from negative emotions. It’s not easy, but do your best. Since the goal is liberation and enlightenment we

A MESSAGE TO YOUNGER TIBETAN GENERATION BY OLDEST MEMBER OF JAMPALING ELDERS’ HOME

By Tsering Norbu and Tashi Dolma: December 29, 2015

Dharamshala- There is a saying “old is gold”.

The old ones are those who experienced immense of hardships and joys in their younger days and they did so many things for us to be able to have in better place in the society.

It is the duty and responsibility of younger generations to learn from them and respect them alongside serving them in a good way.

According to in-charge of jampaling elder’s home, “The Jampaling Elder’s Home at Dharamshala Mcleod Ganj of Himachal Pradesh state is under the Department of Home in Tibetan exile government. It was established in the year 1991 and it is a final shelter for Tibetan refugees who have nowhere to go and live. It is a retirement community and there are 128 residents now among which are 33 armies, 7 monks and 3 nuns etc. many of them are those who sacrificed their life for our country and people”.

Enrolment in the Jampaling Old people’s home is that one should be poor and destitute and should have no one to look after and an individual requires a bona-fide letter from the Director or the Head of the settlement.

Here, the Tibet Post International has interviewed with the oldest resident of Jampaling old people’s home as follow about his life story, his message to younger generations and so on.

Can you introduce with your life story?

My name is Thupten Tsering. I came from Rebkong County of Amdo Region. I am 95 years old. After just one month, I will be 96 years old. I don’t have any relatives in India.

One of my close friends lived here, but he passed away in India. He had one son named Tenzin Sangay. He would help me as much as he could while I lived in McLeod Ganj. But later I told him that he shouldn’t worry about me because he had a family of his own to take care of and taking care of me created problems.

But I haven’t any problems nowadays. I don’t have any contact with them as so many years have passed since I came to India. Perhaps all of my elder brothers have passed away, as I am now 95-years-old. I heard that one of my relatives came to India many years ago. He looked for me but he didn’t meet me at that time. Later some of my friends, who stay in India, told me they will help me to contact with my relatives (nephews, etc.) in Tibet but I told them that I don’t need any help. Now I am old. My life is in its last stage and I could not do anything for them. Maybe they will

Oldest member of Jampaling Elder’s Home, Popo Thupten Tsering. Photo: TPI/Tashi Dolma

worry about me. But I no longer have the will to seek contact with them. But I am very happy in the Jampaling Elders’ Home. Along with Kindness of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, I have just enough. I don’t want to make them worry about me.

How and when did you escape into India from Tibet?

We fought as guerrillas against the Chinese army in 1958. After the uprising failed, I fled across the Himalayas, following the Dalai Lama’s own escape in 1959. At that time I was 40-years-old.

What did you do after you arrived in India?

I stayed in Delhi. As usual, I did not want to join to the army. But suddenly, I learned that Tibetan refugees were being trained by the Indian Army. We received military training for six months, and then we would return to Tibet.

So I joined into Tibetan army in India. At that time, we were gave only Rs 56 for a month of service. That salary was enough for just food.

Americans also gave us military training and we learned how to parachute jump. We received Rs 100 salary for a month. Our salary was very low. At that time I had a girlfriend but I couldn’t care for her. I could only provide food and clothing for myself.

I lived in Tibetan army in India for 11 or 12 years but we were unable to return to Tibet. I decided that if we could not go back to Tibet, I

did not want to be in the army. So I submitted a request to our leaders but they did not allow me to resign completely. Usually, they took no interesting me because I am short temper and I would not accept their oppression. Finally, I withdrew from the Tibetan army on my own initiative How about in Tibet?

In my family, I had six brothers and I am second to last. When I was 14 years old, I left my hometown to Lhasa with my friend Dhargay.

He was 17-years-old. And it took 9 months and 14 days from my hometown to Lhasa on foot. During that time, there were no any buses, vehicles, trains etc. I was a monk and I spent my life in Lhasa until 1959.

Is there something else you would like to share with the younger generation of Tibetans?

Before, we faced many problems or troubles as refugees. Nowadays you are very happy and you don’t have any problems according to the kindness of the His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In the future, in order to be grateful of the His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile, you have a big responsibility. You are the future generation and the hope of Tibetan country.

Therefore, you should do your best for your country and your people.

Tsering Norbu and Tashi Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. They currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

need to overcome disturbing emotions step by step.”

Turning to the last pages of Zhamar Pandita’s ‘Treatise on Special Insight’, His Holiness noted the importance of Atisha’s ‘Lamp for the Path’ in all Tibetan Stages of the Path literature.

He also observed the roles of the 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 7th Dalai Lamas in the Lam Rim lineage and that he is also a member of that lineage.

He remarked on the kindness of the 5th, 7th and 13th Dalai Lamas to Tibet, highlighting the efforts of the 13th to bring about reform. He added, however, that his wishes were thwarted and largely unfulfilled. Lungshar was critical of the way Lamas were conducting Tibet’s affairs and tried to implement modernization. He was not successful. His Holiness said Tibetans cannot blame the Chinese for everything, Tibetans themselves were negligent.

Regarding the Lam Rim texts he said: “I’ve received the eight major texts and other Lam Rim treatises, so the current Ling Rinpoche and the Ganden Shartse Abbot requested me to teach them. We are now coming to the end of the fourth season of those teachings.”

At the end of the text, the ‘King of Concentration Sutra’ (Samadhirajasutra) is quoted, ‘All things are like foam, a plantain tree and a flash of lightning.’ This is to say that all things are insubstantial, without essence and without duration. His Holiness read the verses of the colophon in which the author expresses his aspiration to have shed light on the difficult points of the special insight section of the Great Stages of the Path.

Reminded by Ling Rinpoche, His Holiness also gave the transmission of Je Tsongkhapa’s ‘Foundation of All Qualities’ and ‘Three Principles of the Path’. And, since this final teaching had been given at Tashi Lhunpo, he also read Gendun Drup’s praise to Je Rinpoche entitled ‘Song of the Eastern Snow Mountain.’

His Holiness met about 60 old and infirm Tibetans from the Dekyi Larso and Lugsam Settlements. “You elderly people are nearing the end of your lives,” he told them, “Buddha Shakyamuni passed away at the age of 80 and even Nagarjuna eventually had to go. The point is to have lived a meaningful life.

Outside on the steps of the temple His Holiness also conducted a photo session with visitors from Europe, Australia, North America, and South America. Makeshift signs saying Germany, Swiss, Aussies, USA, Lithuania, Ukraine, and Canada dotted the crowd of several hundred people. His Holiness spoke during the end of the morning session about how westerners had taken well to the teachings of the Dharma.

His Holiness held a separate meeting in the new prayer hall within visitors from Asia.

It requires a warm heart and overcoming short-sighted narrow-mindedness, taking a wider perspective. He suggested that one of the reasons so many of the problems we face are our own creation is that our education system, focused on material goals, is inadequate.

There is a need, he said, to improve the sense of inner values in education. He asserted his confidence that if this change were made, starting now, by the end of the century, the world could be a happier more peaceful place.

“That’s all I have to say,” he said. “Thank you for coming, despite the difficulties you face. I felt it was my duty to see you and for us to take photographs together. Thank you and good night.”

6

TPI NEWS

December 31, 2015

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Interview with a Manager of Esukhia

By Tashi Dolma: December 29, 2015

Dharamshala-Esukhaia is a registered NGO dedicated to the preservation of the Tibetan language through education, language services, and research & development. As a primary repository for the Buddhist teachings, the survival of this language is imperative for scholars, translators, and Buddhist from East and West alike. Their mission is bridging these communities, and their projects are developed in concert with ones’ needs and aspirations.

Finally, they firmly believe the results of all their activities should always be open-source, for the benefit of all.

Please introducing about your life story?

My name is Norbu Dorjee. I got an opportunity to go to schools. After I arrived in India, I have finished completely 10th class in the college of Sera Monastery and then I got an opportunity to enter the college of Beranas. I did studying there for 5-6 years. Then I came to Mcleod Ganj and I have worked in Esukhia and I live here. At first, I have joined in Esukhia. Esukhia has founded at first year. At first there had just three members of Esukhia. I have worked here for three years.

Please introducing about Esukhia?

The name of the association is Nangdan Sishu in Tibetan (-Buddhist Teachings Service Centre) and the name to the association is ESUKHIA in English. Its main office is in Franca. At the present, Esukhia at Mcleod Ganj is the Branch of the main office in Franca. On 10/09/2010 Esukhia has founded. Chief in charge of the office is Ngawang Thinley. He comes from Franca. Junior leader of Esukhia is Pema Yangchen. Under both of them, there are thirty people us for Chief Association.

For what main purpose have Esukhia founded?

The main purpose of the association is to

become competent translators. For nowadays, there are many religious associations in foreign countries. Therefore, for translating Tibetan-English each other, there are many problems because of incompetent translators.

The main purpose of the association is to become competent translators. And also, for many Tibetans as the main and people who pay attention to Tibetan religion, culture and Tibetan language in foreign countries but they could not get any opportunity to learn and they have many problems to come to India. So in order to solve those kinds of problems, we have kept a purpose to teach Tibetan language by Online. At first time when this association has founded, there have these purposes. From year by year, the purpose of the association will be change in the future.

What work has Esukhia do in accordance with Tibetan issue?

As Usual, our association never has any relations with politics. But in the Esukhia, officials all work on Tibetan language, Tibetan culture and Tibetan religion from 9am to 5pm every day. Therefore, Tibetan issue becomes big problem because of deteriorating Tibetan language and culture. Everyone knows Tibetan issue is bigger. We feel that and in order to succeed and restore, we teach Tibetan as much as possible.

What great results did you get in processing of founding Esukhia?

After Esukhia have founded, I could not tell you all results of the association gradually.

But I looked back for past three years and I think we have got good result according to the association’s purpose. And in the exile, we could give job to younger Tibetans who have the level of Tibetan. It is very great result. Talking about online-class department;

teaching Tibetan by online is very good opportunity for Tibetan people who come to India and they could read, write and speak Tibetan. Therefore, I think it is great result. At the present, there are many Tibetan and English students. They all could speak Tibetan very well. For learning rapidly, it is same online class. So-called online class is to teach Tibetan by computer. So-called learning rapidly is to teach Tibetan in person. The names of the online class and learning rapidly are different but the purposes of them are same. Before some student used dictionary to translate and record.

For learning rapidly, in past two years, many students could be speaking very well to record.

Nowadays many Tibetan people are on holiday from foreign countries to Dharamsala. At that time, they have learnt Tibetan and when they went back, they could speak Tibetan very well and also they could understand Tibetan very well. That is a great result. And talking about Kanjur and Tanjur department (-the Kanjur means the canonical texts consisting of the teachings and precepts of the Buddhu and the Tanjur means the collection of 225 volumes of commentary on the Buddha’s teachings). In these days, many ex-monks work on comparing the different editions of the Kanjur and the Tanjur. We finished comparing Kanjur and we are working on comparing Tanjur. And comparing different editions of the Kanjur and the Tanjur are a great result.

Are foreigners being taught Tibetan now and do you have any plans to teach Tibetan to Tibetan people who don’t know Tibetan in India in the future?

In the view of many people, we just teach foreigners Tibetan. But in fact, we also teach Tibetan to Tibetan people. In the past, there have same help for Tibetan in foreign countries.

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Are there any Ex-Esukhia students who are working in any society?

I think many ex-Esukhia students work in the society like that because our many students were sent here by religious associations.

Therefore, many students came here and for six months, they have learnt Tibetan and then they returned to their religious associations and they have recorded and taught religion and Tibetan to foreigners who have attention to Tibetan.

Do you have any important things else to tell me without a connection with last questions?

Recently, we have opened a café shop so-called Pagad Dzongma. In the café shop, tea is free.

For example, from 2pm to 7pm, drinking tea in the café is possible. But when everyone drinks the tea, who speaks mixed language (-impure Tibetan), we make a punishing for him to pay money for the tea. Our main purpose is to be able to speak pure Tibetan. And in the future, to support the pure Tibetan, how many people are welcome to drink the tea in the café shop and also we give a workshop on teacher training.

The workshop is the way how to teach Tibetan by second language. At first, Professor Paul Davies and professor Samara Escudero both gave workshop to two oldest teachers in the Esukhia for two months. Professor Paul Davies came from Australia and professor Samara Escudero came from Spain. Both of them have certificate of teaching second language training. And then two oldest teachers gave a workshop to other teachers in the Esukhia. For two months, six teachers are finished giving workshop on teacher training. Until now workshops were finished two times.

Tashi Dolma is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

TPI NEWS

The Tibet Post International

S ELF-I MMOLATION

7

December 31, 2015

Since 2009, a verified total of 142 Tibetans self-immolated in Tibet to protest against China’s repressive policy, of them 123 reportedly passed-away due to their burn injuries List of self­immolations inside Tibet since 2009. Verified total: 142, of them 123 reportedly died, while the status of the rest remains unknown.

No.

Name

Age

Place

Father

Mother

Protest Date

Status

93

Zungdue Kyab (M)

17

Bora, Labrang, Amdho, Tibet

Tsepa

Bende Tso

02.12.12

Unknown

94

Lobsang Gedun (M)

29

Golog, Pema Dzong, Amdho, Tibet

Golog Lokho

Sago Dewang

03.12.12

Died: 03.12.12

27.02.2009

Unknown

95

Konchok Phelgye

24

Dzoege, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Konchok Kyab

Dolma Tso

08.12.12

Died: 08.12.12

Dzongkar

16.03.2011

Died 17.03.2011

96

Pema Dorjee (M)

23

Luchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

-

-

08.12.12

Died: 08.12.12

Choklek

15.08.2011

Died 15.08.2011

97

Benchen Kyid (F)

17

Tsekhok, Rebgong, Amdho, Tibet

Sonam Tsering

Sermo

09.12.12

Died: 09.12.12

26.09.2011

Unknown

98

Tsering Tashi (M)

22

Sangchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

Dukar Kyab

Dolma Tsering

12.01.13

Died: 12.01.13

26.09.2011

Unknown

99

Pasang Lhamo (F)

62

Beijing, China

-

-

13.09.12

Unknown

03.10.2011

Unknown

100

Dupchok (M)

28

Khyungchu, Ngaba, Amdho

Kyokpo

Yangtso

18.01.13

Died: 18.01.13

former monk of Kirti monastery

07.10.2011

Died 11.10.2011

101

Konchok Kyab (M)

26

Bora, Labrang, Amdho, Tibet

Dorjee

Rinchen Tso

22.01.13

Died: 22.01.13

18

former monk of Kirti monastery

07.10.2011

Died 08.10.2011

102

Lobsang Namgyal (M)

37

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Karkho

Karkyi

03.02.13

Died: 03.02.13

19

former monk of Kirti monastery

15.10.2011

Died 05.01.2012

103

Drukpa Khar (M)

26

Amchok, Sangchu County, Amdho

Tamdin Tsering

Tamdin Tso

13.02.13

Died: 13.02.13

Tenzin Wangmo (F)

20

Dechen Choekhorling Nunnery

Nyitse

17.10.2011

Died 17.10.2011

104

Namlha Tsering (M)

49

Sangchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

-

-

17.02.13

Died: 17.02.13

11

Dawa Tsering (M)

38

Karze County, Kham, Tibet

Delek

Dontso

25.10.2011

Unknown

105

Rinchen (M)

17

Kyangtsa, Dzoge, Ngaba, Amdho

Dhondup Tsering

Adon

19.02.13

Died: 19.02.13

12

Palden/Choetso (F)

35

Tawu County, Kham, Tibet

Joney

Kolen

03.11.2011

Died 03.11.2011

106

Sonam Dhargyal (M)

18

Kyangtsa, Dzoge, Ngaba, Amdho

Tsering Dhondup

Takho

19.02.13

Died: 19.02.13

13

Tenzin Phuntsok (M)

46

ChAmdho County, Kham, Tibet

01.12.2011

Died 06.12.2011

107

Sangdhak (M)

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

25.02.13

Unknown

14

Ten-nyi (M)

20

Kirti monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

06.01.2012

Died 06.01.2012

108

Tsezung Kyab (M)

20s

Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

25.02.13

Died: 25.02,13

15

Tsultrim (M)

20

Amdho Ngaba,

06.01.2012

Died 07.01.2012

109

Phakmo Dhondup (M)

20s

Bayan Khar, Tso-ngon, Amdho

24.02.13

Died: unknown

16

Ven. Sonam Wangyal (M)

42

Dharlag county, Golok

08.01.2012

Died 08.01.2012

110

Konchok Wangmo (F)

30

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Depo

13.03.13

Died: 13.03.13

17

Lobsang Jamyang (M)

22

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Gyatso

Lhachung

14.01.2012

Died: 14.01.2012

111

Lobsang Thogmey (M)

28

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Rogtrug

Depo

16.03.13

Died: 16.03.13

18

Rikdzin Dorje (M)

19

Meuruma township, Ngaba

Garpa Tsongko

Dungkar

08.02.1012

Died: 21.02.2012

112

Kalkyi (F)

30

Barba, Zamthang, Ngaba, Amdho

Choden

Pari

24.03.13

Died: 24.03.13

19

Sonam Rabyang (M)

42

Yulshul County, Kham, Tibet

Late Phuntsok Kyab

Kunkyab

09.02.2012

Unknown

113

Lhamo Kyab (M)

43

Sangchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

25.03.13

Died: 25.03.13

20

Tenzin Choedon (F)

18

Mame Dechen Choekhorling

11.02.2012

Died: 13.02.12

114

Konchok Tenzin (M)

28

Luchu county, Kanlho, Amdho

Lhakho

Lhamo Tso

26.03.13

Died: 26.03.13

21

Lobsang Gyatso (M)

19

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Badzri

13.02.2012

Unknown

115

Jugtso (F)

20

Zamthang, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Tenkho

Donkyi

16.04.13

Died: 16.04.13

22

Dhamchoe Sangpo (M)

38

Tsongon County, Amdho, Tibet

Late Takla

17.02.12

Died: 17.02.12

116

Lobsang Dawa (M)

20

Dzoege, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Dorjee Khado

24.04.13

Died: 24.03.13

23

Nangdrol (M)

18

Amdho Ngaba Zamthang

Chenzig

19.02.12

Died: 19.02.12

117

Konchok Woeser (M)

23

Dzoege, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Norbu

Samdup Dolma

24.04.13

Died: 24.03.13

24

Tsering Kyid (F)

20

Machu County, Amdho

03.03.12

Died: 03.03.12

118

Tenzin Sherab (M)

23

Yushul County, Kham, Tibet

Dhondup

Choemey

27.05.13

Died: 27.05.13

25

Rinchen (M)

33

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

04.03.12

Died: 04.03.12

119

Wangchen Dolma (F)

31

Minyak, Tawu, Kham, Tibet

Tenzin

Yudon

11.06.13

Died: 14.06.13

26

Dorjee Tseten (M)

18

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

05.03.12

Died: 05.03.12

120

Konchok Sonam (M)

18

Dzoege County, Ngaba, Amdho

20.07.13

Died: 20.07.13

27

Gepe (M)

18

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

10.03.12

Died: 10.03.12

121

Shichung (M)

40s

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

28.09.13

Died: 28.09.13

28

Jamyang Palden (M)

34

Rongbo Monastery, Rebkong

14.03.12

Died: 29.09.12

122

Tsering Gyal (M)

20

Pema County, Amdho, Tibet

Sherphun Tashi

Rindon

11.11.13

Died: 11.11.13

29

Lobsang Tsultrim (M)

20

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

16.03.12

Died: 19.03.12

123

Konchok Tseten (M)

30

Marchu County, Amdho, Tibet

Samkho

Oga

03.12.13

Died: 03.02.13

30

Sonam Dhargye (M)

43

Sharlang, Nyen-tu-hu

17.03.12

Died: 17.03.12

124

Tsultrim Gyatso (M)

41

Sangchu County, Amdho, Tibet

19.12.13

Died: 19.12.13

31

Sherab (M)

20

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

28.03.12

Died: 28.03.12

125

Phagmo Samdup (M)

27

Tsekhok County, Malho, Amdho

Drukmo

05.02.14

Died: 05.02.14

32

Tenpa Dhargyal (M)

22

Gyalrong County, easetn Tibet

Kalden

Paltso

30.03.12

Died: 07.04.12

126

Lobsang Dorjee (M)

25

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Sherab

Namkho

13.02.14

Died: 16.02.14

33

Chime Palden (M)

21

Gyalrong County, easetn Tibet

Rabgyal

Machik Tso

30.03.12

Died: 30.03.12

127

Lobsang Palden (M)

20s

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdho

Sherab

Namkho

16.03.14

Died: 21.03.14

34

Thubten Nyandak (M)

47

Minyak County, Kham. Tibet

06.04.12

Died: 06.04.12

128

Jigme Tenzin (M)

20s

Tsekhok, Malho, Amdho, Tibet

Lakyab Gyal

Yangkho

16.03.14

Died: 16.03.14

35

Atse (F)

25

Minyak County, Kham. Tibet

06.04.12

Died: 06.04.12

129

Dolma (F)

31

Bathang County, eastern Tibet

29.03.14

Unknown

36

Sonam (M)

20s

Zamthang, Ngaba, Amdho

19.04.12

Died: 19.04.12

130

Trinley Namgyal (M)

32

Tawu County, Kham, Tibet

Dulho

Pelha

15.04.14

Died: 15.04.14

37

Choephak Kyab (M)

20s

Zamthang, Ngaba, Amdho

19.04.12

Died: 19.04.12

131

Lhamo Tashi (M)

22

Tsoe County, Amdo, Tibet

Choepa Tsering

Dugkar Tso

17.09.14

Died: unknown

38

Dhargye (M)

20s

Lhasa, Central Tibet

27.05.12

Died: 07.07.12

132

Konchok (M)

42

Gade County, Golok, Amdho

16.09.14

Severely injured

39

Dorjee Tseten (M)

19

Lhasa, Central Tibet

27.05.12

Died: 27.05.12

133

Sangye Khar (M)

33

Sangchu County, Amdho, Tibet

Wangpo

Yudon

16.12.14

Died: 16.12.14

40

Rikyo (M)

36

Zamthang, Ngaba, Amdho

30.05.12

Died: 30.05.12

134

Tsepe Kyid (F)

19-20

Meruma, Ngaba County, Amdho

Chime Dorjee

Lhamo

22.12.14

Died: 22.12.14

41

Tamding Thar (M)

50s

Chentsa County, Amdo, Tibet

15.06.12

Died: 15.06.12

135

Kalsang Yeshe (M)

38

Tawu County, Kham, Tibet

Dorjee Jampa

Lhamo

23.12.14

Died: 23.12.14

42

Ngawang Norphel (M)

22

Dzatoe, (Trindu, Jyekundo)

Lhakpa Dhondup

Tsering Yangchen

20.06.12

Died: 01.08.12

136

Norchuk (F)

47

Troktsuk, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Tsedak

Youdon

05.03.15

Died: 05.03.15

43

Tenzin Khedup (M)

24

Dzatoe, (Trindu, Jyekundo)

Lekdup

Kyidzom

20.06.12

Died: 20.06.12

137

Yeshe Khadro (F)

47

Drakgo, Kham, Tibet

Sherab

Sonam Dolma

08.04.15

Died: 08.04.15

44

Dekyi Choezom (F)

40s

Yushul County, Kham, Tibet

27.06.12

Unknown

138

Ney Kyab (M)

45

Adue Yultso, Amdho, Tibet

Naymo

Kartema

16.04.15

Died: 16.04.15

45

Tsewang Dorjee (M)

22

Damshung, near Lhasa

07.07.12

Died: 10.07.12

139

Tenzin Gyatso (M)

30s

Tawu, Karze, Kham, Tibet

Chemi Dorjee

20.05.15

Died: 20.05.15

46

Lobsang Lozin (M)

18

Gyalrong County, easetn Tibet

Jorgye

Tsepopo

17.07.12

Died: 17.07.12

140

Sangye Tso (F)

36

Chone, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

27.05.15

Died: 27.05.15

47

Lobsang Tsultrim (M)

21

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdo

Tsewang

Donkar Kyid

06.08.12

Died: 06.08.12

141

Sonam Topgyal (M)

26

Kyegudo, Kham, Tibet

09.07.15

Died: 09.07.15

48

Dolkar Tso (F)

26

Tsoe County, Amdho, Tibet

Druk Gyalkhar

Sangye Tso

07.08.12

Died: 07.08.12

142

Tashi Kyi (F)

55

Sangchu, Amdho, Tibet

27.08.15

Died: 28.08.15

49

Choepa (M)

24

Meuruma, Ngaba, Amdho, Tibet

Palho

Madon

10.08.12

Died: 10.08.12

Updated: 31 /12 /2015, TPI News

50

Lungtok (M)

20

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba

Richung

Lumo

13.08.12

Died: 13.08.12

List of self­immolations in Exile, India and Nepal since 1998. Total 7, of them 4 died.

51

Tashi (M)

21

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Ngapo

13.08.12

Died: 14.08.12

No.

52

Lobsang Kalsang (M)

18

Kirti Monastery, Ngaba, Amdo

Tsekho Dorjee

Sangaydon

27.08.12

Died: 27.08.12

1

Thupten Ngoedup

60

New Delhi, India

27.04.1998

Died: 29.04.98

53

Dhamchoe (M)

17

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Doshi Lobe

Tsepo

27.08.12

Died: 27.08.12

2

Lhakpa Tsering

26

Bangalore City, India

23.11.06

survived

54

Yungdrung (M)

27

Chamdho, Kham, eastern Tibet

29.09.12

Unknown

3

Sherab Tsedor

45

New Delhi, India

04.11.11

survived

55

Gudrup (M)

43

Driru, Nagchu, Kham, Tibet

04.10.12

Died: 04.10.12

4

Bod Truk

27

Kathmandu, Nepal

10.11.11

survived

56

Sangay Gyatso (M)

27

Tsoe County, Kanlho, Amdho

06.10.12

Died: 06.10.12

5

Jamphel Yeshe

22

New Delhi, India

Late

26.03.12

Died: 28.03.13

57

Tamdin Dorjee (M)

52

Tsoe, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

13.10.12

Died: 13.10.12

6

Drupchen Tsering

25

Kathmandu, Nepal

Sangngak Tezin

Tselha

13.02.13

Died: 13.02.13

58

Lhamo Kyab (M)

27

Bhora, Sangchu, Amdho

20.10.12

Died: 20.10.12

7

Ngedhon Gyatso

39

Kathmandu, Nepal

Jamyang Tashi

Ugyen

06.08.13

Died: 06.08.13

59

Dhondup (M)

n/a

Labrang, Sangchu, Amdho

22.10.12

Died: 22.10.12

60

Dorjee Rinchen (M)

57

Sangchu County, Amdho

23.10.12

Died: 23.10.12

61

Lhamo Tseten (M)

24

Amchok, Sangchu, Amdho

Sungdue Tso

26.10.12

Died: 26.10.12

62

Tsepak Kyab (M)

21

Sangkhok County, Amdho

Lumo Jam

26.10.12

Died: 26.10.12

63

Tsepo (M)

20

Driru, Kham, eastern Tibet

Bhuchung

Gaga

25.10.12

Died: 25.10.12

64

Tenzin (M)

25

Driru, Kham, eastern Tibet

Nyima

Lugge

25.10.12

Unknown

65

Dorjee Lhundup (M)

24

Rebgong, Amdo, Tibet

Drukthar Gyal

Shawo Yakmo

04.11.12

Died: 04.11.12

66

Dorjee (M)

15

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering

Ghangkar

07.11.12

Died: 07.11.12

67

Samdub (M)

16

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Sothar

Pasang

07.11.12

Unknown

68

Dorjee Kyab (M)

16

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Dhondup

07.11.12

Unknown

69

Tamdin Tso (F)

23

Rebgong, Amdo, Tibet

Tamdin Kyab

Konchok Tso

07.11.12

Died: 07.11.12

70

Tsegyal (M)

27

Bekar town, Driru, Kham

07.11.12

Died: 18.11.12

71

Kalsang Jinpa (M)

18

Rebgong County, Amdho, Tibet

Choepa

Dechok Kyid

08.11.12

Died: 08.11.12

72

Gonpo Tsering (M)

19

Tsoe County, Amdo, Tibet

Tashi Sonam

Nyinglo

10.11.12

Died: 10.11.12

73

Nyingkar Tashi (M)

24

Rebgong County, Amdo, Tibet

12.11.12

Died: 12.11.12

74

Nyinchak Bum (M)

18

Dowo, Rebgong, Amdho, Tibet

12.11.12

Died: 12.11.12

75

Khabum Gyal (M)

18

Gyalwo, Rebgong, Amdho

Tadin Gyal

Dolkar Tso

15.11.12

Died: 15.11.12

76

Tenzin Dolma (F)

23

Goge, Tsenmo, Rebgong

Bhulo

Tashi Dolma

15.11.12

Died: 15.11.12

77

Chakmo Kyid (F)

--

Rebgong County, Amdho, Tibet

17.11.12

Died: 17.11.12

78

Sangdhak Tsering (M)

24

Dokar township, Rebgong

Choeying

Menlha Tso

17.11.12

Died: 17.11.12

79

Wangchen Norbu (M)

25

Tsoshar, Amdo, Tibet

Tenzin

Khando Tso

19.11.12

Died: 19.11.12

80

Tsering Dhondup (M)

34

Amchok County, Amdho, Tibet

Lubum Gyal

Drukmo Tso

20.11.12

Died: 20.11.12

81

Lhubum Gyal (M)

18

Dowa, Rebgong, Amdho, Tibet

Tsego

22.11.12

Died: 22.12.12

82

Tamdin Kyab (M)

23

Luchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Tashi (late)

22.11.12

Died: 22.11.12

83

Tamdin Dorjee (M)

29

Tsekhok, Malho, Amdho

23.11.12

Died: 23.11.12

84

Wangyal (M)

20s

Serta County, eastern Tibet

26.11.12

Unknown

85

Sangay Dolma (F)

17

Tsekhok, Malho, Amdho, Tibet

Sonam Gyal

Dhondup Tso

25.11.12

Died: 25.11.12

86

Konchok Tsering (M)

18

Achok, Labrang, Amdho, Tibet

Tsephag Kyab

Gonpo Tso

26.11.12

Died: 26.11.12

87

Gonpo Tsering (M)

24

Luchu, Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

Wangyal

Namlolo

26.11.12

Died: 26.11.12

88

Kalsang Kyab (M)

24

Kyangtsa, Dzoege, Amdho

Trogyal

Achoe

27.11.12

Died: 27.11.12

89

Sangay Tashi (M)

18

Sangchu, Labrang, Amdho

Namkho

27.11.12

Died: 27.11.12

90

Bendey Khar (M)

21

Kanlho, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Thar

Kunsang Dolma

28.11.12

Died: 28.11.12

91

Tsering Namgyal (M)

31

Luchu, Kanlho, Amdho

Choero

Tamding Tso

29.11.12

Died: 29.11.12

92

Konchok Kyab (M)

29

Zoegey, Ngaba, Amdho

Phuntsok

Lobsang Dolma

30.11.12

Died: 01.12.12

93

Zungdue Kyab (M)

17

Bora, Labrang, Amdho, Tibet

Tsepa

Bende Tso

02.12.12

Unknown

1

Tapey (M)

20s

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

2

Phuntsok Jarutsang (M)

20

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Tashi

3

Tsewang Norbu/ (M)

29

Tawu County, Kham, Tibet

Tsokye

4

Lobsang Kalsang (M)

18-19

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

Tsering Tashi

5

Lobsang Konchok (M)

18-19

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

6

Kalsang Wangchuk (M)

17

Ngaba County, Amdho, Tibet

7

Choephel (M)

19

8

Khaying/Lhungyang (M)

9

Norbu Dramdul (M)

10

Tsurdri

Chakdor Yeshe

Chuklo

Gompo Dhondrup

Namchuk Tsering

Dechok

Pelkar Nyingmo

Chaklo Tsedron

Rinlha

Gompo Tso

Dolma Tso

Name

Age

Place

Father

Mother

Protest Date

Status

Updated: 14 August 2013, TPI News

Mcleod Ganj - A harmonious town of Tibetan People

By Tsering Norbu: December 29, 2015

Dharamshala- McLeod Ganj is small town which is full of love and peace with Dalai Lama who has been living there in exile with his followers ever since he was forced to leave Tibet in 1959. Over a time period, this town has started to be a home for Tibetan people in exile India. The rich Tibetan cultures and traditions are highly practice and preserve in a so called refugee centre undervalued grace and guide from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

This hill town in Himachal Pradesh is a veritable “little Lhasa “ festooned with multi-coloured prayers flags ,the dalai lama temple (tsuklakng) towering over the town and its streets lined with Tibetan food stalls like Momo, Laphing and traditional Tibetan precious commodities. It also has become a major city for the education centre of Buddhism and Tibetan culture with range of holistic activities.

McLeod Ganj market place is always surrounded with its two streets shop displaying merchandise things in geometric pattern, Hand knit woolens, shoes, prayer bells,

Mcleod Ganj main market place with two street, in Dharamshala on December 27, 2015. Photo: Tsering Norbu

backpack and jewelleries. In this mesmerizing town, it is easy to grab upon sights and sound that will make your heart burst with joy. The sight of Tibetan grand father and mother who walks back bent with aging, slowly and turning their prayer wheel in silent will make you want to stay there just for little more.

Summer in McLeod Ganj is cool while winter season is known for its freezing moment where its temperature goes down below zero at times but tourists and people there enjoys with their daily work. And McLeod Ganj is also good place for nature lovers. There are many attracted place like Dal-lake, Bhagsu water fall and Dharamkot.

McLeod Ganj is place worth visit and hence come together to experience the peace and leave the place with open and wide hearted.

Tsering Norbu is a final year BA Journalism student at Madras Christian College. He currently interns at the Tibet Post International.

8

TPI NEWS

December 15, 2015

Long Life Prayers offered

The Tibet Post International Back Page Focus TWA concludes Tibetan women’s for His Holiness advanced leadership training in Delhi and secured the preservation of the Dharma,

Senior monks presenting a ritual mandala offering during the Long Life Offering to His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Sera Lachi assembly hall in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India on December 18, 2015. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

By Jane Cook: November 18, 2015

Bylakuppe - The spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama was offered a longlife offering (Tenshug) at Sera Monastery in Bylakuppe, South India, on December 18, 2015.

The Long Life Offering was conducted according to Sutrayana prayers, the Prayer to the Sixteen Arhats, Long Life Prayers to Amitayus, and dedication from the Samantabhadra prayer.

When the prayers were over, His Holiness announced that the Abbots of Sera Mey and Sera Jey Monasteries had requested him to give a teaching, which he had agreed to do.

“We are at a crucial juncture in our history,” he said, “but the spirit and courage of the people in Tibet is unwavering. Most of the monks who first came into exile initially stayed at Missamari. Some of them went to build roads in Chamba, where they had to wear lay clothes. Eventually we moved down here to create settlements, which meant cutting and burning trees and clearing the land. Once the settlements had been established, monks from Buxa and elsewhere were shifted here too.

Many of them had faced much hardship by the time they reached here.

“Today, I’m going to Tashi Lhunpo, where I will inaugurate their new prayer hall and I’ll complete the transmission of the Collected Stages of the Path Texts that I started two years ago. It’s important to keep our spiritual bonds.

How do we do that? By studying and putting the teachings into practice. This is the only way to preserve them. We study the Three baskets and engage in the Three Trainings, When we say in our prayers, ‘May the Dharma flourish’, we should mean ‘May it flourish in me’.

“So far we’ve preserved the Dharma well, but we need to be alert to any faults that may have crept in. I’d like to ask the senior Lamas and officials, including the Ganden Tri Rinpoche to get together and discuss what improvements we may need to make.

“Now I’m going to read ‘Destiny Fulfilled’, in which Je Tsongkhapa describes how he studied, practised and dedicated the resultant merit.

This included memorizing the text, receiving a word by word explanation and exercising what he’d understood on the debate yard. This was the approach of the masters and students of Nalanda. The more they learned the more their minds were subdued. Je Rinpoche says don’t be studious with only a rough understanding.

Bodhisattvas enter into the path in order to be of service to others. In India there were the writings of many different masters. In Tibet we have several different traditions. We should make ourselves familiar with them.

“A long time ago there was a very good monk from Kinnaur who came to request a teaching from me that I couldn’t give him because I hadn’t received it. I told him to approach Khunu Lama Rinpoche.

I was sorry that I had been unable to fulfil his wish. The Perfection of Wisdom Sutra in 25,000 Lines says Bodhisattvas should be familiar with all the teachings in order to be able to give them to others. Around the same time I received Khunu Lama Rinpoche’s ‘Praise of Bodhichitta’ from him, as well as ‘Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life’, I also wanted to receive Guhyagarbha from him. As was my custom I asked my Abbot, Ling Rinpoche about it and he suggested that I be cautious, apprehensive about what Dolgyal might do. So, finding that my religious freedom was restricted, I missed the opportunity.

“Later, I performed a dough ball divination before the Jowo Wati Sangpo statue that indicated that I should receive the teaching.

Ling Rinpoche said since you are the Dalai

Lama, here to serve the Tibetan people, no one should criticise what you choose to do.

And from that time on I gained religious freedom. Propitiating Dolgyal is to just pray to a mundane spirit. There is a risk of it detracting from the practice of the Dharma.”

His Holiness said he was going to read from ‘Destiny Fulfilled’ which, as an account of Je Rinpoche’s training and education, shows how he conducted his life. This is exemplified by the fourth verse: In the beginning, I sought much learning. In the middle, all teachings dawned on me as spiritual exhortation. In the end, I practised day and night. I dedicated all this virtue for the dharma to flourish. Thinking this over, how well my destiny is fulfilled! Thank you very much, Noble Lord Wisdom Treasure!

At the end His Holiness said: “Now I’m in my 81st year. We’ve set up these settlements

however, at some point senior people like the Ganden Tri Rinpoche and me will be gone, but when that happens there will be younger Lamas like Ling Rinpoche to rely on.”

When the prayers and teachings were complete, Geshe Lobsang Monlam came up to the throne and His Holiness released a new Tibetan dictionary he has produced. He was effusive in his praise: “I’d like to thank you for this unprecedented project. You have achieved this without the benefit of modern education. I rejoice in your effort, it will further the development of the Tibetan Language and benefit the Tibetan people.”

After lunch, as His Holiness set out to drive the short distance to Tashi Lhunpo, the streets around Sera Monastery were lined with people waiting to see him off. The road was newly surfaced all the way to the new temple.

On arrival, as he climbed out of his car, His Holiness stopped to watch the Tashi Shölpa dancers who were singing and dancing to welcome him. He walked gradually up to the temple door, greeting and teasing old friends on the way. He cut the ribbon, pushed open the doors and recited prayers to initiate the inauguration. Up at the altar he paid his respects before the brightly gilded statues and lit the lamp. Visiting the Gönkhang he saluted Dökham Dagmo.

His Holiness sat on a throne as tea and sweet rice were served and a praise to Gendun Drup, the First Dalai Lama, was recited. He said that Je Rinpoche had predicted that Gendun Drup, who studied with him, would do great things. One of his achievements was the founding of Tashi Lhunpo, which, he said, was named by Dökham Dagmo, an aspect of Palden Lhamo. These recollections brought tears to His Holiness’s eyes and he remarked that just as he feels a strong karmic link to Dromtönpa, he also has a deep fondness for Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.

Denver University Students’ journey to Tibet’s non-violent struggle

By Sean Ray: December 15, 2015

Dharamshala — Alan Gilbert, distinguished professor of the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the (DU), has a shock of curly white hair and a beard to match it. In December,he is a familiar sight in the cafes and shops of McLeod Ganj. This is his third year to bring students to Northern India to participate in a service-learning program focused on the Tibetan exile community.

Gilbert has spent much of his life combating injustice.

He is a veteran of the African American Civil Rights Movement and was even expelled from Harvard in 1970 for leading student protests against the Vietnam War. His recent work has focused on bringing public attention to American atrocities committed against Native Americans in Colorado, such as the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre.

“The story of the Tibetan people mirrors the treatment of indigenous people in the United States,” Gilbert says.

He has also traveled to Israel to study non-violence movements of the Palestinian territories.

Ever since he visited Nepal as a teenager, Gilbert has been fascinated by Buddhism. He is especially interested in the psychological richness of Tibetan Buddhism. “There’s a conversation between Buddhism and psychotherapy,” he explains. His interest in the diversity of religions in the Indian subcontinent and the persecution of Tibetans in Tibet led to him apply to teach a course at DU that has been offered for twelve years.

The course is entitled “Tibet and the Power of Nonviolence.” After studying the history of the Tibetan independence movement and various proponents of nonviolence, students travel to India and spend a few weeks immersed in the local culture while performing service work at different placements throughout the city. These placements include the Thangde Natsal Art Studio, Students for a Free Tibet, Gamru Village School, the Tibet World Community Center, and the Tibet Post International. Students also serve as English language partners at the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet.

Nestled in the terraced hills outside of Lower Dharamshala, Thangde Gatsalis an art studio that produces brilliantly painting thangkas and other Buddhist art. The mission of the studio is cultural preservation. “We are trying to continue Tibetan art, but at the same time take it back to the ancient Indian tradition,” says Sarika Singh, director and master painter of the studio. She is also the first Indian and first female to master the technique of thangka painting.

A museum called the Center for Living Buddhist Art is currently being constructed next to the studio. It is scheduled for completion in the next two to three years. DU volunteers are helping to organize and classify thangka paintings that have been produced and collected by the studio.

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) was founded in New York in 1994 as an organization committed to helping Tibet regain its independence from Chinese rule. There are 650 chapters

in more than 30 countries, the majority in the United States.

The SFT chapter in India was founded in Dharamshala in 2000. Their work focuses on bringing attention to the plight of political prisoners in Tibet, preserving Tibetan culture, and organizing protests in various parts of India.

On December 10, a local holiday celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Nobel Peace Prize, SFT members and DU volunteers passed out flyers at the entrance of the main Tibetan Temple. The flyers brought attention to Khenpo Kartse, a 38-year-old Tibetan imprisoned by the Chinese authorities for promoting the Tibetan language, culture and religion. He has been denied access to a doctor despite suffering from liver and lung disease.

The Gamru Village School provides public education for underprivileged children, “regardless of caste, gender, creed, religion or disability.”Before the school was opened in 2004, 60% of the children in Gamru did receive any kind of formal education. Along with learning the Indian curriculum, students receive free meals and healthcare from the school. DU students participating in the Volunteers Program teach English grammar and vocabulary to first through fourth graders.

During their time in Dharamsala, students stay at Tibet World, a community center and hostel founded in 2013 by Yeshi Lhundhup. Along with promoting Tibetan cultural awareness and providing educational programs, Tibet World serves as an international crossroads. “It is a place where Tibet meets the world and the world meets Tibet,” explains Lundhup, a Tibetan with a big smile and an even bigger heart. Lundhup is one of many residents of Dharamshala who escaped from Chinese-occupied Tibet by making the perilous journey through the Himalayas into Nepal and India.

In addition to participating in service learning, students attended daily lectures by members of the Tibetan exile community. The guest speakers spoke on different issues faced by Tibetans in China and India. Some of the speakers endorse the “Middle Way,” or His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s official policy that Tibetans should use non-violence to achieve autonomy in Tibet while remaining part of the Chinese state. Others desire total independence. “Freedom is the life force of a nation,” says Lhasang Tsering, a Tibetan poet and former president of the Tibetan Youth Congress. “I don’t see anything neutral about giving up.”Still other speakers spoke on the dangers of climate change and the Chinese government’s environmental degradation of the Tibetan plateau, where many South Asian river systems originate.

DU students are determined to share their experiences and apply what they have learned once they return to Colorado.”Tibetans need more support and greater attention from the international community,” says Gilbert. “It’s important that our students spread the word about Tibet. If more people know what is going on, more pressure will be placed on China to change their destructive policies.”

TWA concludes Tibetan Women’s Advanced Leadership Training with a Panel Discussion on Women’s Leadership status in Asia. Photo: TPI

By Tashi Dolma: December 28, 2015

New Delhi — The seven-day intensive ‘Tibetan Women’s Advanced Leadership Training’ concluded on Sunday, December 27, at the India Habitat Centre with a panel discussion titled ‘’Beijing plus 20: Women’s Leadership Status in Asia.’

Four prominent personalities graced the event as the key speakers: Mani Shankar Aiyar, Member of Indian Parliament and Author, Dr. Ananya Vajpeyi, Historian and Professor, Lynda Lepcha, Author and Trainer, and Dr. Renuka Singh, Author and Professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Moderated by Dhardon Sharling, Member of Tibetan Parliament in exile, the two-hour discussion mapped the status of women’s leadership in Asia in a Beijing-plus-20 scenario.

“Twenty years on from the Beijing Conference on women, we reflected on the Beijing Platform for Action, its successes and setbacks, in theory and in practice, from the global to the local,” said Dhardon Sharling. “We hope that this discussion will affirm women’s active participation in all spheres of public and private life through a full and equal share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making,” said Dhardon.

The seve-day training included both inbound and outbound training. The two key trainers were Lynda Lepcha from Holistic Training Solutions, Dhardon Sharling, Member TPIE and PhD candidate. The topics covered included ‘Building personal leadership, Building professional leadership, Communication Skills, Documentary

Filmmaking and Citizen Journalism.

The outbound training covered a seven day of morning yoga, a site visit to the exhibition on ‘Tibetan self immolations’ titled ‘Burning Against the Dying of Light’, a day-long outdoor project documenting a humanitarian project undertaken by the participants and a day of lobbying Indian member of the Parliament.

“On December 26, our trainees met and greeted sixteen members of parliamentarians from both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha as a part of the lobbying practice during the training said Dolma Yangchen, President of TWA “The training also resulted in production of four films documenting a humanitarian project carried out by each group. This is a direct journalistic venture. The entire cluster of four films will be showcased at various international platforms and also will be sent to various human rights film festivals,” said Dolma.

Twenty six female participants from different professional backgrounds participated in this training.

“The training was tough and also stressful at times.

Our schedule begins at 7 am in the morning and ends at 12 midnight. But we ended up learning a great deal. It was very effective and a lifetime experience for me.” Said Sonam Dolma, a participant from Nepal.

“TWA’s training truly lives up to its goal of empowering an entire generation of Tibetan female leaders.” said Tenzin Choezom participant from London, U.K. TWA’s slogan is advocacy for home, action in exile.