March 2024 Dharamsala, India
WE MUST CONTINUALLY CONSIDER THE ONENESS OF HUMANITY, REMEMBERING THAT WE ALL WANT TO BE HAPPY. AND INDEED, EVERYONE HAS A RIGHT TO A HAPPY LIFE. WE MAY FACE PROBLEMS, BUT WE MUST NOT LOSE HOPE. ― HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA
McLeod Ganj, a suburb of Dharamsala, India
Norbulingka Institute Temple in Dharamsala, India
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S SECTION I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 SECTION II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Overview of the Dalai Lama Fellows Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 History of the Dalai Lama Fellows Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Dalai Lama Fellows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 SECTION III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Dharamsala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 SECTION IV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Books & Films . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Guest List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
88
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
View enroute to Triund hiking trail in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, India
SECTION I
W E LC O M E
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
3
W E LC O M E As we prepare for our journey to receive
The mission of the Renée Crown Wellness
wisdom and guidance from His Holiness
Institute is to build a world in which every
the Dalai Lama, and to connect with and
young person thrives, supported by the
learn from one another in Dharamsala,
caring relationships and inner resources
India, we are each invited to reflect upon
required for a lifetime of wellness. Its vision
the meaning of the theme that will serve
invites many disciplines, perspectives, and
as the compass throughout our trip:
people to come together.
“Compassion in Action.” Practicing
compassion
The mission of the Contemplative Sciences involves
being
Center is combining contemplation, con-
aware and emotionally moved by suffering,
nection, and research to enhance flour-
holding a wish to see the relief of suffering,
ishing. The mission is pursued through a
and, importantly, cultivating a willingness to
variety of programs and initiatives in aca-
respond and take action. Leadership that
demic classrooms, residential life, research,
inspires compassion in action is urgently
scholarship, and social innovation.
needed today, and such leadership is not defined by a particular role or position. We all have the capacity to lead and to be part of creating communities infused by compassion. In fact, we are hoping that this journey will be an important opportunity to deepen and expand such a community of
Together, the Crown Institute and the Contemplative Sciences Center work in partnership to operate the Global Dalai Lama Fellows program, also present on the campus of Stanford University through the Office for Religious and Spiritual Life. The
like-minded and like-hearted people.
Dalai Lama Fellows program is a unique
Our Compassion in Action: A Conversa-
ing social change makers designed to help
tion with His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the
them cultivate self-awareness, resilience,
result of a deep connection between the
and compassion; broaden their cultural
Renée Crown Wellness Institute at the Uni-
perspectives; learn how to engage with
versity of Colorado Boulder and the Con-
complex systems; and work with local
templative Sciences Center (CSC) at the
communities in sustainable ways. The
University of Virginia. We came together,
Dalai Lama Fellows program also offers
many years ago, united by friendship as
interwoven local academic programs for
well as shared values and work in the world.
students on each university’s campus.
4
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
one-year leadership program for emerg-
We are grateful for the opportunity to be
trip come to life. Please enjoy this keepsake
together in Dharamsala, India, to highlight
book as an expression of our gratitude for
the work of the Dalai Lama Fellows pro-
your dedication to this work and presence
gram and to reflect together about the role
as we start this journey. We know that it will
of leadership and compassion in our world.
be a time of listening, learning, connecting,
We are struck by the deeply generous con-
and planting seeds of compassion that we
tributions that each of you, as our travel
hope will grow and flourish for many years
community, have already made to have this
to come.
- SONA DIMIDJIAN, Ph.D. Director, Renée Crown Wellness Institute Sapp Family Endowed Chancellor’s Chair for Research Excellence Professor, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience University of Colorado Boulder
- MARTIN N. DAVIDSON Interim Executive Director Contemplative Sciences Center University of Virginia
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
5
RELINQUISH YOUR ENVY, LET GO YOUR DESIRE TO TRIUMPH OVER OTHERS. INSTEAD, TRY TO BENEFIT THEM. WITH KINDNESS, WITH COURAGE, AND CONFIDENT THAT IN DOING SO YOU ARE SURE TO MEET WITH SUCCESS, WELCOME OTHERS WITH A SMILE. BE STRAIGHTFORWARD. AND TRY TO BE IMPARTIAL. TREAT EVERYONE AS IF THEY WERE A CLOSE FRIEND.
The Dhauladhar mountain range also known as the Lesser Himalayas
I SAY THIS NEITHER AS DALAI LAMA NOR AS SOMEONE WHO HAS SPECIAL POWERS OR ABILITY. OF THESE I HAVE NONE. I SPEAK AS A HUMAN BEING: ONE WHO, LIKE YOURSELF, WISHES TO BE HAPPY AND NOT TO SUFFER. ― EXCERPT FROM HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA’S ETHICS FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM (PAGES 202-203)
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C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
SECTION II
OV E RV I E W & H I S TO RY O F THE DALAI LAMA F E L LOW S P R O G R A M DALAI LAMA F E L LOW S
His Holiness the Dalai Lama photographed during an initiation in Switzerland in 2013 Photograph courtesy of Olivier Adam D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
9
LONG-VIEW LEADERSHIP, ROOTED IN THE VALUES OF TRUTH, JUSTICE AND HUMAN RIGHTS, IS ESSENTIAL IF WE ARE TO BEQUEATH A BETTER WORLD TO OUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN. ― MARY ROBINSON CHAIR OF THE ELDERS FORMER PRESIDENT OF IRELAND FORMER UN HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Secluded cabin at the Triund hilltop in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, India
12
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
DALAI LAMA FELLOWS IS A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE. IT IS NOT A CURRICULUM, IT IS A JOURNEY, A JOURNEY OF SELF-EXPLORATION, FAITH, AND HOPE. IT AUGMENTS YOUR FAITH IN HUMANITY AND CRAF TS A NEW DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP FOR YOU WHICH IS BASED ON THE MOST BASIC VALUES OF HUMANITY, I.E., LOVE AND COMPASSION. ― ANURODH SACHDEVA, INDIA, 2017 FELLOW
Artwork: Illustration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Global Dalai Lama Fellows at the Global Compassion Summit in honor of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, July 2015 Illustration by Danica Novgorodoff D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
13
OV E RV I E W O F THE DALAI LAMA F E L LOW S P R O G R A M Dalai Lama Fellows aims to help change makers integrate contemplative work and intentional personal transformation with their efforts to bring about positive change in their communities and the more-than-human world. Dalai Lama Fellows offers emerging change makers a rigorous, interdisciplinary, and contemplative program to reimagine leadership as involving selfawareness, personal sustainability, genuine compassion, and the capacity to skillfully navigate complex systems at multiple levels. The Fellows learn practices for cultivating emotional intelligence, self-care, resilience, empathy, deep listening, and communication skills to foster systems for human and planetary flourishing for generations to come. Over the course of a year, with the support of mentors and coaches, each Fellow implements an original field project addressing a local challenge, and learns how to interweave their own transformation with the transformation of the communities with which they are engaging. Upon graduation, Fellows join a community of program alumni (called “LifeLong Fellows”), with whom they connect in mutually supportive ways while continuing to advance their leadership journeys. The primary components of the yearlong fellowship include: •
The Head, Heart, and Hands Curriculum: a 12-module semisynchronous curriculum providing concepts, practices, and reflective exercises for contemplative leadership development
•
1-on-1 Contemplative Coaching: monthly support for Fellows’ contemplative and holistic development
•
1-on-1 Social Innovation Coaching: monthly support for Fellows’ social innovation projects
•
Cohort Calls: monthly full-group learning experiences integrating lessons learned from each curriculum module
14
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
•
Learning Pods: regional learning communities facilitated by program alumni
•
Contemplative Leadership Assembly: an in-person immersive learning experience delivered at the beginning and end of the fellowship year
The University of Colorado Boulder has integrated the transformative principles and initiatives of the Global Dalai Lama Fellows program into a localized university chapter hosted by the Renée Crown Welness Institute and offered within the Leeds School of Business. Within this academic setting, these Fellows play an integral role as members of a distinctive program tailored to infuse the teachings, knowledge, and methodologies of the Dalai Lama Fellows into the fabric of undergraduate education and curricula.
Dalai Lama Fellows Assembly Group, 2023 Photograph by Ellen Daniels D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
15
H I S TO RY O F THE DALAI LAMA F E L LOW S P R O G R A M Dalai Lama Fellows was founded in 2010, with the support of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, as an independent, non-sectarian, and inclusive organization. Beginning as a fellowship program, Dalai Lama Fellows has become a pioneer in integrating contemplative practices and personal flourishing with social innovation. With more than 200 Fellows from 56 different nationalities, Dalai Lama Fellows has assembled an active global leadership network that serves as an ever-expanding resource of human flourishing for next generation change makers. Dalai Lama Fellows currently operates through a partnership between the University of Virginia’s Contemplative Sciences Center, the University of Colorado Boulder’s Renée Crown Wellness Institute, and Stanford University’s Office for Religious and Spiritual Life.
Top Right: University of Colorado Boulder Bottom Right: Students walking to class at the University of Virginia 16
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
PEACE CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT JUSTICE, JUSTICE CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT FAIRNESS, FAIRNESS CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT DEVELOPMENT, DEVELOPMENT CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT DEMOCRACY, DEMOCRACY CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT RESPECT FOR THE IDENTITY AND WORTH OF CULTURES AND PEOPLES. ― RIGOBERTA MENCHÚ TUM 1992 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE RECIPIENT
Individual camping at Triund hilltop in Himachal Pradesh
G LO B A L R E P R E S E N TAT I O N To date 229 fellowships have been awarded to changemakers from 56 different countries, with the majority of the fellows representing the Global South. Below is a map of where the Fellows hail from:
20
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, THOUGH CAPABLE OF CREATING IMMEASURABLE MATERIAL COMFORT, CANNOT REPLACE THE AGE-OLD SPIRITUAL AND HUMANITARIAN VALUES
Dolma Ling Nunnery Photograph courtesy of the Tibetan Nuns Project
THAT HAVE LARGELY SHAPED WORLD CIVILIZATION, IN ALL ITS NATIONAL FORMS AS WE KNOW IT TODAY. ― HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA
UBUNTU SAYS MY HUMANITY IS BOUND UP IN YOURS. I AM ONLY BECAUSE YOU ARE. ― ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU THE ESSENCE OF BEING HUMAN
DALAI LAMA F E L LOW S A L U M N I AT T E N D I N G T H E C O M PA S S I O N IN ACTION C O N V E R S AT I O N A group of fourteen Dalai Lama Fellows program alumni were invited to participate in the conversation on Compassion in Action with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. While all program alumni would serve as genuine representatives of the fellowship’s values and spirit, the following group was selected because they: (1) embody Dalai Lama Fellows’ values of integrity, interdependence, resilience, humble ambition, and courage to a significant degree; (2) make exceptional positive impacts on their communities through their social innovation work; and (3) continually offer their service to the Dalai Lama Fellows community as mentors, coaches, facilitators, recruiters, thought partners, and much more.
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
25
The following program alumni were invited to participate in the conversation on Compassion in Action with His Holiness the Dalai Lama:
DAMILOLA “FASH” FASORANTI
ABDALLAH GAD
SHAMAN GUPTA
(EGYPT, 2013)
(INDIA, 2020)
Damilola “Fash” Fasoranti
Abdallah Gad is Program
Shaman Gupta works with
is the Chief Listener at
Officer at swisspeace, a
young trans people across
Prikkle Academy, a so-
peace research and prac-
India to support them with
cial
tice
(NIGERIA, 2017)
Basel,
shelter, education, and em-
“schools without teach-
enterprise
creating
Switzerland. In research,
institute
ployment along with legal
ers” and catalyzing youth
teaching and convening
and healthcare support.
into employment opportu-
capacities, his work cen-
nities through the gifts of
ters on the question of
their heads, hearts, and
participatory
hands.
reform in countries emerging from war.
26
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
in
institutional
VUYO HENDA
TIM HUANG
MANSI KOTAK
(SOUTH AFRICA, 2020)
(BHUTAN / USA, 2013)
(KENYA, 2019)
Vuyo Henda is the co-
Tim Huang is the Head of
Mansi Kotak is the co-
founder of Mbokodo Net-
Wellbeing at the Educat-
founder and CEO of the
work, a mentoring orga-
ing for Lifelong Citizenship
Rahul Kotak Foundation,
nization aimed at young
School in Bhutan, where
an NGO making educa-
women
disadvan-
he facilitates social-emo-
tion accessible for chil-
taged communities, striv-
tional learning and well-
dren living in marginalized
ing to give them a foun-
being programs for teach-
communities in Kisumu,
dation for launching their
ers, parents, and students
Kenya.
careers in a mindful way.
to help realize Bhutan’s
primarily address access
vision of Gross National
to food, educational ma-
Happiness in education.
terial, and scholarships
ELC has been a lead
together
school in Bhutan for the
action education.
from
Their
programs
with
climate
Mind and Life Institute’s “Call to Care” Initiative.
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
27
ADDI MAVENGERE
FLAVIA NEVES MAIA
KHANG NGUYEN
(ZIMBABWE, 2018)
(BRAZIL, 2022)
(VIETNAM, 2022)
Addi Mavengere is the
Dr. Flavia Maia is the
Khang
founder of Learning Fac-
founder and director of
Compassionate Commu-
tory and co-founder of
Filha do Sol, a nonprofit
nication Vietnam, a com-
UtanoXR. Learning Fac-
aiming to regenerate trop-
pany that supports people
tory and UtanoXR develop
ical ecosystems and pro-
to transform conflicts to-
digital solutions to make
mote women’s leadership
gether through dialogues
education and pediatric
on climate justice. She is
and building systemic ca-
health respectively more
also a global consultant,
pacity.
accessible for people in
speaker, and author on
low-resource communities.
climate resilience and the head, heart, and hands of leadership.
28
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
Nguyen
co-runs
STEPHEN OGWENO
BRITTANIE RICHARDSON
SHRUTIKA SILSWAL
(KENYA, 2020)
(KENYA / USA, 2020)
(INDIA, 2022)
Stephen Ogweno is an
Brittanie
optimist, an entrepreneur,
the founder of Art and
Associate
and a visionary. He is also
Abolition, a nonprofit or-
Programs at Simple Ed-
the
and
is
Shrutika Silswal is the Director
of
CEO
ganization that exists to
ucation Foundation. SEF
of Stowelink Foundation,
heal, empower, and pro-
works with the govern-
which is focused on en-
tect young girls in Kenya
ment to build state-wide
hancing literacy, improv-
who have survived sexual
teacher capacity-building
ing access to care, and
violence as a result of
programs anchored in the
promoting early screening
poverty.
belief that teachers who
for
founder
Richardson
non-communicable
are loving, skilled, and
diseases in sub-Saharan
intuitive can transform a
Africa.
student’s learning experience and enable every child to thrive.
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
29
SERENE SINGH
RUCHI VARMA
(UK / USA, 2018)
(INDIA, 2018)
Serene
Sikh
Ruchi Varma is the founder
American Rhodes Scholar
Singh,
a
and CEO of HumanQind,
at the University of Ox-
a social design enterprise
ford, is a Ph.D. doctoral
building equitable, kind,
researcher in Criminology,
and compassionate cities.
exploring the experiences
HumanQind seeks to make
of women on death row in
cities safe and kind by
the United States. Singh is
giving children visibility, a
the founder of a nonprofit
voice, and agency to drive
empowering marginalized
change.
women, a public speaking coach, and the author of the children’s book, The Queen Machine.
30
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
2019 Dalai Lama Fellows at the Contemplative Leadership Assembly D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
31
C U R R E N T F E L LOW S AT T E N D I N G T H E C O M PA S S I O N IN ACTION C O N V E R S AT I O N A group of Fellows currently participating in the University of Colorado Boulder’s Dalai Lama Fellows Program were also invited to participate in the Compassion in Action experience. These Fellows are integral members of a distinctive program at the Renée Crown Wellness Institute in partnership with the Leeds School of Business. This local Dalai Lama Fellows chapter, originally offered to students in connection with the Mindful Campus program at the Crown Institute, expanded to students in the Leeds School of Business in 2023, as part of a three-year demonstration program. The program, specifically focused on entrepreneurship and social innovations, helps students develop leadership skills and provides the tools to incorporate mindfulness, compassion, and the teachings of the Global Dalai Lama Fellows program in their roles as business innovators. Each year the program welcomes a cohort of five Leeds students. The following Fellows were invited to participate in the Compassion in Action experience.
Left: Renée Crown Wellness Institute at the University of Colorado Boulder D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
33
The following University of Colorado Boulder’s Fellows were invited to participate in the Compassion in Action experience:
Nikki
NIKKI BECHTOLD
ERICA PEREZ
(UNITED STATES, 2023)
(UNITED STATES, 2023)
Bechtold
is
a
CU
Boulder
Erica Perez is a CU Boulder Leeds
Leeds undergraduate student in her
undergraduate student in her senior
junior year. Her project is centered
year. Her project centers on the exam-
on enhancing inclusivity within the
ination of burnout within social action
CU Boulder campus, specifically ad-
spaces.
dressing issues related to housing and rentals in the surrounding area.
34
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
MEGHAN FALL
GABRIEL “ONE FEATHER” CERVANTES
(UNITED STATES, 2023)
(UNITED STATES, 2023)
Meghan Fall is a CU Boulder Leeds
Gabriel Cervantes is a CU Boulder
undergraduate student in her sopho-
Leeds undergraduate student in his
more year. Her project endeavors to
sophomore year. His project seeks to
establish a dedicated space and com-
broaden the impact of the Founda-
munity at CU Boulder for individuals
tion he and his family established; a
coping with loss and grief.
Foundation aimed at supporting marginalized student groups in high schools within the Thornton area of Colorado through external scholarships.
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
35
His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Global Dalai Lama Fellows at the Global Compassion Summit in honor of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, July 2015
36
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
ACTING SIMPLY TRUE LEADERS ARE HARDLY KNOWN TO THEIR FOLLOWERS. NEXT AF TER THEM ARE THE LEADERS THE PEOPLE KNOW AND ADMIRE; AF TER THEM, THOSE THEY FEAR; AF TER THEM, THOSE THEY DESPISE. TO GIVE NO TRUST IS TO GET NO TRUST. WHEN THE WORK’S DONE RIGHT, WITH NO FUSS OR BOASTING, ORDINARY PEOPLE SAY, OH, WE DID IT. ― THE TAO, TRANSLATION BY URSULA K. LE GUIN
Aerial view of Dharamsala, India
Hotel Norbu House in Dharamsala, India Photograph courtesy of Wangdue Tsewang
SECTION III
DHARAMSALA
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
41
Colorful houses in Dharamsala, India 42
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
DHARAMSALA
Dharamsala, situated in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, has evolved into a significant cultural and spiritual hub, particularly renowned for its association with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan diaspora. In 1959, following the Lhasa uprising, His Holiness the Dalai Lama sought refuge in India, along with thousands of other exiles from Tibet. Dharamsala, with its serene landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, became the chosen residence for the Tibetan spiritual leader. McLeod Ganj, a suburb of Dharamsala, became the official residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the headquarters of the Tibetan community-in-exile.
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43
Over the years, Dharamsala has transformed into a center for Tibetan Buddhism, hosting numerous monasteries and institutions dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture, language, and traditions. The Tsuglagkhang Complex, situated in McLeod Ganj, encompasses the Namgyal Monastery, the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the Tsuglagkhang Temple, which houses a prominent statue of Lord Buddha. The town has attracted a diverse array of individuals, including scholars, activists, and spiritual seekers, contributing to its multicultural ambiance. Visitors to Dharamsala often partake in spiritual teachings and discussions, fostering an environment of crosscultural exchange and understanding.
DHARAMSALA’S CHARM EXTENDS BEYOND ITS SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE. THE TOWN IS NESTLED IN THE DHAULADHAR RANGE OF THE HIMALAYAS, OFFERING BREATHTAKING VIEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR TREKKING AND EXPLORING THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE REGION.
44
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
Bhagsu Nag waterfall in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, India D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
45
Above: Prayer flags Right: Buddha statue in Namgyal Monastery, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, India Far Right: Buddhist prayer wheel
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C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
DHARAMSALA IS NOT MERELY A PICTURESQUE DESTINATION, BUT ALSO A LIVING TESTAMENT TO THE PROFOUND TEACHINGS OF HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA. THE TOWN SERVES AS A SANCTUARY FOR SPIRITUAL SEEKERS, CULTURAL ENTHUSIASTS, AND THOSE SEEKING A UNIQUE BLEND OF TRANQUILITY AND ACTIVISM, MAKING IT AN ENRICHING EXPERIENCE FOR ALL WHO VENTURE THERE.
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AS LONG AS SPACE REMAINS. AS LONG AS SENTIENT BEINGS REMAIN, UNTIL THEN, MAY I TOO REMAIN TO DISPEL THE MISERIES OF THE WORLD. ― SANTIDEVA, A GUIDE TO THE BODHISATTVA’S WAY OF LIFE
48
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
TIBETAN CHILDREN’S VILLAGE TOTA RANI
TIBETAN INSTITUTE OF PERFORMING ARTS
MCLEOD GANJ
TSUGLAGKHANG TEMPLE & DALAI LAMA TEMPLE COMPLEX DALAI LAMA LIBRARY & ARCHIVES LIBRARY OF TIBETAN WORKS & ARCHIVES KHANYARA
THE TIBET MUSEUM DHARAMSALA
KHAROTA
DOLMA LING NUNNERY NORBULINGKA INSTITUTE CHELIAN
FATEHPUR
RAKKAR
SIDHBARI YOL
D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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KORA WALK Kora is a transliteration of the Tibet-
its trajectory. Adorned with prayer
an term
(skor ra), denoting the
wheels, flags, and depictions of the
ritualistic act of circumambulating
mani mantra (om mani padme hum),
a sacred site or object. This prac-
the circuit route facilitates and en-
tice holds profound significance in
hances the Kora practice. Typically
Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions,
undertaken in a clockwise direc-
serving as a form of pilgrimage or
tion, individuals may choose to walk
daily observance. Individuals engage
the route or engage in prostration
in Kora for diverse reasons, including
throughout the entire circuit.
daily spiritual practices, ceremonies, celebrations, rituals, and pilgrimages. The custom is commonly observed around mountains, lakes, temples, monasteries, stupas, and revered figures in South Asian and Himalayan
The
practice
attracts
from
diverse
communities
devotees across
South Asia and the Himalayas, who undertake the journey to perform Kora around His Holiness’ current
communities.
residence. As the spiritual leader for
In the locale of McLeod Ganj, Dha-
engaging in a Kora around His
ramsala, Kora is regularly undertaken
Holiness’ residence is considered to
around the residence of His Holiness
be a sacred and profound spiritual
the Dalai Lama and other sacred sites
practice.
within the residential complex. The designated circuit route commences at the entrance of the Dalai Lama’s Temple Complex, encompassing various temples and monasteries along
Tibetans
and
Buddhists
globally,
While we are in Dharamsala, we will have the unique opportunity to engage in a Kora around His Holiness’ residence.
Left: Tibetan Monk walking among prayer wheels in Dharamsala, India D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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DALAI LAMA LIBRARY & ARCHIVES The Dalai Lama Library and Archives is dedicated to curating an extensive collection of teachings and wisdom imparted by His Holiness the Dalai Lama throughout his lifetime. The repository encompasses oral teachings, interviews, books, texts, historical documents, degrees, and awards that reflect the extensive body of work undertaken by His Holiness. The primary objective of the institution is to safeguard, preserve, and promote the vast reservoir of knowledge generated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Established in July 2022, the Library and Archives aims to centralize the collaborative efforts of global organizations and groups advocating for and producing the work of His Holiness. This initiative ensures the availability and accessibility of His Holiness’ work in a consolidated location, grounded in the current residence of His Holiness and the Tibetan community. The facility is strategically located above the Kora walk area in the Dalai Lama Temple complex and houses the library on the first floor. This section contains a comprehensive collection of written works by His Holiness, alongside publications discussing his life and contributions. These works have been translated into multiple languages, reflecting the library’s commitment to inclusivity. In addition to His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso’s extensive collection, the library preserves the collective works of all previous Dalai Lamas. The archives contain physical and digitized artifacts of significant importance, including photographs, documents, paintings, and materials requiring protection from natural disasters and decay. The second floor accommodates an award gallery and a conference hall. The award gallery commemorates the myriad achievements conferred upon His Holiness throughout his life, showcasing his global impact and marking key historical events. Beyond serving as a repository for organization and preservation, the Library and Archives hosts a Translation Office responsible for translating His Holiness’ books into over 30 languages. While recently made accessible to the public, the Library and Archives represents a sophisticated institution committed to the preservation, dissemination, and celebration of the profound legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Right: The Dalai Lama Library and Archives Photograph courtesy of Ellen Kellner 52
C O M PA S S I O N I N A C T I O N
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The door of the main temple in a monastery in Dharamsala, India, 2008 Photograph courtesy of Olivier Adam
TSUGLAGKHANG TEMPLE The Tsuglagkhang Temple stands
with establishing the Tibetan Empire
as one of the preeminent Buddhist
and introducing Buddhism to Tibet,
monuments in McLeod Ganj, Dha-
remains an embodiment of historical
ramsala. This revered sanctuary hosts
and religious significance. The orig-
statues and depictions of three pivotal
inal Lhasa temple was purportedly
deities in Tibetan Buddhist culture:
constructed to enshrine artifacts and
Shakyamuni Buddha, Avalokitesvara,
statues of the historical Buddha.
and Padamasambhava. Notably, the
These artifacts were brought by King
temple safeguards relics salvaged
Songtsen Gampo’s wives, Princess
and clandestinely transported out
Wenchen from China and Princess
of Tibet during the onset of Chinese
Bhrikuti from Nepal, as part of their
occupation.
dowries. These sacred images found
The historical and cultural significance of
Tsuglagkhang
Temple
extends
their abode in the Tsuglagkhang Temple in Lhasa.
beyond the confines of Dharamsala.
Both the Lhasa and Dharamsala
Serving as the architectural and
temples endure as revered pilgrim-
cultural counterpart to its namesake
age sites within Tibetan culture and
in Lhasa, Tibet, this temple bears
communities. The presence of an
equivalence to the revered Tsug-
equivalent monastery in Dharamsala,
lagkhang Temple, also known as
mirroring a sacred site from Lhasa,
the Jokhang Temple or Monastery.
underscores
Positioned as the spiritual epicenter
tance of maintaining ties to homeland
of Lhasa, akin to its counterpart in
and traditions, even in exile, for His
Dharamsala, both temples boast a
Holiness and the Tibetan people.
the
enduring
impor-
surrounding Kora route. The
Lhasa
monastery,
founded
around 640 CE by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, who is credited
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TIBET MUSEUM Established in 1998, the Tibet Museum in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, is a dedicated institution with the primary objectives of documenting, preserving, researching, exhibiting, and educating both Tibetan and non-Tibetan audiences on facets integral to Tibet’s history, culture, and contemporary circumstances. Housed within His Holiness’ residential complex, the museum is an endeavor created by and for Tibetans, with the explicit purpose of presenting an alternative narrative about Tibetan culture and challenging prevailing representations of Tibetan people in museums abroad. Employing objects, archives, photographs, and personal testimonies, the museum illuminates Tibet’s historical, political, and global significance.
A core mission of the museum is to inform visitors about human rights violations perpetrated by the Chinese government in Tibet. The permanent exhibit, titled “I am Tibetan, this is my story,” occupies a substantial portion of the museum and is divided into ten sections offering an in-depth exploration of Tibet’s culture, the influential role of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Chinese occupation of Tibet, resistance against the occupation, and the contemporary lives of Tibetans post-exile. The museum takes a deliberate stance on how it represents Tibet and the voices of its people. It does not profess neutrality concerning the history of the Chinese occupation of Tibet. Instead, it actively challenges China’s narrative of Tibet’s past and its distorted interpretation of the present. In doing so, the museum plays a crucial role in enabling Tibetan people to reclaim their right to narrate their stories on their own terms and in their own words.
Left and Above: Photographs courtesy of the Tibet Museum D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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Above and Right: Performances at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts Photographs courtesy of Ellen Kellner
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TIBETAN INSTITUTE OF PERFORMING ARTS Established by His Holiness the Dalai
In addition to its cultural preservation
Lama in August 1959, the Tibetan
efforts, TIPA serves as an educational
Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is
institution, providing training to stu-
committed to the preservation and
dents with a keen interest in perform-
promotion of Tibet’s ancient and dis-
ing arts. These students undergo
tinctive culture, encompassing its rich
comprehensive training in the funda-
musical, artistic, and cultural heritage.
mentals of Tibetan music and dance,
Initially founded in Kalimpong, the in-
receiving an authentic and thorough
stitute later relocated to McLeod Ganj
transmission of traditional folk dance
in 1961, undergoing a name change
from the provinces of U-Tsang, Khan,
from the Tibetan Music, Dance, and
and Amdo in Tibet. TIPA boasts a
Drama Society to TIPA. The primary
legacy of over 450 professionals who
objective of TIPA is to safeguard the
have graduated from its programs,
cultural identity of Tibetans residing
now serving as dance and music ed-
across the globe.
ucators in various Tibetan schools
As one of the first institutions founded by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in exile following the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959, TIPA plays a pivotal role in countering the threat posed to Tibet’s spiritual and artistic traditions
and settlements across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Europe, and North America. This global impact underscores the institute’s commitment to disseminating
Tibetan
cultural
traditions
worldwide.
within Chinese-occupied territories. Its mandate is crucial in the preservation and promotion of Tibetan culture and identity.
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DOLMA LING NUNNERY Dolma Ling Nunnery, situated in the
bifurcated into two main components:
Kangra Valley near Dharamsala, is
one dedicated to secular subjects
home to over 250 nuns (referred
such as history, languages (Tibetan
to as “ani” in Tibetan). Inaugurated
and English), and social sciences; the
in 2005 under the auspices of His
other focusing on education follow-
Holiness the Dalai Lama, the nunnery
ing the Tibetan monastic education
is financially supported by the Tibetan
system. The nuns engage in debates,
Nuns Project. It holds the distinction
integral to Tibetan monastic educa-
of being the first nunnery exclusively
tion, blending logical thinking with a
dedicated to providing higher educa-
profound understanding of Buddhist
tion for Tibetan Buddhist nuns from
philosophy.
all schools within Tibetan Buddhism.
Graduates of Dolma Ling Nunnery
Noteworthy for its commitment to
play an essential role in the Tibetan
education, the Dolma Ling Nunnery
exile community by teaching in Tibet-
presents a comprehensive 17-year
an schools and communities. The
curriculum encompassing traditional
primary objective of the nunnery is to
Buddhist philosophy and debate,
educate and empower Tibetan Bud-
complemented
contemporary
dhist nuns as proficient teachers and
courses in Tibetan language, English,
leaders, fostering the sustainability of
mathematics, and computer science.
Tibetan religion and culture. The insti-
The nunnery, a 12-year endeavor
tution stands as a beacon, embody-
to complete, stands as a testament
ing the aspirations to preserve and
to the dedication of its inhabitants,
propagate the rich heritage of Tibetan
who actively participated in its con-
Buddhism through education and
struction and continue to contribute
empowerment.
by
to its maintenance. The curriculum is
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Above: Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery Photograph courtesy of Tibetan Nuns Project Right: Photograph of a Geshema holding the yellow hat that signifies her degree Photograph courtesy of Olivier Adam D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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Norbulingka Institute in Dharamsala, India
NORBULINGKA INSTITUTE The Norbulingka Institute, established with the primary objective of preserving the artistic knowledge and techniques achieved during the zenith of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, is dedicated to imparting these skills to a new generation of artists committed to advocating for Tibetan artistic heritage. Officially inaugurated in 1995 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the institute stands as a beacon for the continuation of traditional Tibetan artistic practices. In addition to its role in preserving Tibetan artistic tradition, the Norbulingka Institute operates three guesthouses and two restaurants. This unique initiative allows artists to sustain their work within their respective artistic lineages without succumbing to the pressures of mass production for monetary gain. All proceeds generated from the hospitality operations are reinvested into the
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institute, supporting social programs such as health and childcare for staff, apprenticeships in art programs, and other scholastic projects. This approach positions Norbulingka as a self-sustaining community, where every participant contributes to the overarching goal of preserving Tibetan culture. The core focus of Norbulingka lies in preserving religious arts, including statue making, thangka painting, thangka applique, and woodcarving. It is noteworthy that the Norbulingka Institute derives its name from His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s summer residence, the Norbulingka in Lhasa, Tibet. Established by the 7th Dalai Lama in 1754 during a period of political instability, this residence has been an integral part of Tibetan culture in Lhasa. The 7th Dalai Lama’s visionary creation of the summer residence aimed at establishing institutes of arts and sciences to ensure the continuity of Tibetan culture and arts during a challenging period in history.
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Photograph courtesy of the Tibetan Children’s Village
THE TIBETAN CHILDREN’S VILLAGE The Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) stands as an integrated community in exile, dedicated to the care and education of orphans and refugee children from Tibet. This registered non-profit charitable organization, headquartered in Dharamsala, was overseen by Jetsun Pema, sister of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, from 1964 until 2006. In alignment with the Dalai Lama’s teachings on education—emphasizing the importance of guiding children and encouraging specialized studies in various fields—a multi-trade vocational training center was established in 1999. The mission of the Tibetan Children’s Village is to ensure that all Tibetan children under its care receive a robust education, cultivate a strong cultural identity, and evolve into self-reliant, contributing members of the Tibetan community and the global society. As a charitable organization, their goals include providing parental care and love, fostering a deep understanding of Tibetan identity and culture, instilling character and moral values, delivering both modern and Tibetan education, creating childcentered learning atmospheres in schools, nurturing environments for physical and intellectual growth, and offering suitable life and career guidance for the development of social and citizenship skills. Established in 1960 with 51 children, the TCV has grown significantly, currently housing around 2,000 residents and accommodating 150-day students. The students reside in 42 family homes and two hostels while attending on-campus educational facilities. Moreover, TCV has extended its impact by establishing 18 branch schools, vocational training centers, day schools, and youth centers in various settlement locations.
Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheels
THE LIBRARY OF TIBETAN WORKS & ARCHIVES The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives
(LTWA)
in
Dharamsala
serves as an archive for Tibetan manuscripts that have traversed the Himalayas from Tibet, embodying not only the essence of Tibetan culture but also the ancient Indian wisdom
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of Buddhism that journeyed from India to Tibet and has now returned to India. Faced with the imminent threat to Tibetan culture during the Chinese occupation, Tibetans, in their escape, carried with them a precious trove of books, manuscripts, statues, and
paintings—all meticulously preserved
In 1991, Himachal Pradesh University,
within the walls of the Library of Tibet-
Govt. of H.P., recognized the insti-
an Works and Archives.
tute as the Centre for Tibetan Stud-
The LTWA’s primary objectives are twofold: to furnish comprehensive Tibetan cultural resources and to foster an environment conducive to research and knowledge exchange among scholars and students. In today’s world, characterized by political and spiritual complexity, these objectives take on heightened significance. The foundation stone for the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives was laid by the His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 1970. Established and registered under the laws of the host country, the LTWA commenced operations
with
modest
resources.
Over the years, it has made consistent progress in various developmental endeavors, firmly establishing its credibility. Today, the LTWA stands as a premier global institute specializing in Buddhist and Tibetan studies, offering extensive resources and attracting a growing number
of
scholars,
ies. Five years later, the Assembly of Tibetan Peoples’ Deputies (Exile Tibetan Parliament) conferred upon the LTWA the combined status of National Library, National Museum, and National Archives. In 2006, as part of the National Manuscripts Mission initiated by the Government of India, the institute was designed as one of the National Manuscripts Resource Centres. Since its inception, the institution has steadfastly aimed to restore, promote, and preserve Tibetan culture. The library’s holdings include approximately 80,000 manuscripts, books, and documents, along with approximately 10,000 photographs and over 600 thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), covering a diverse array of
Buddhist
philosophy,
subjects
psychology,
such
as
medicine,
astrology, art, architecture, history, and literature.
researchers,
students, and visitors worldwide.
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BODHISATTVA PRAYER EXCERPT FROM HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA’S ETHICS FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM PAGE 147
May I become at all times, both now and forever A protector for those without protection A guide for those who have lost their way A ship for those with oceans to cross A bridge for those with rivers to cross A sanctuary for those in danger A lamp for those without light A place of refuge for those who lack shelter And a servant to all in need.
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Tibetan Monk walking along the Kora walk
RUMI’S SEVENFOLD ADVICE BY RUMI
In generosity and helping others: be like the river In compassion and grace: be like the sun. In concealing others’ faults: be like the night. In anger and fury: be like the dead. In modesty and humility: be like the soil. In tolerance: be like the ocean. Either you appear as you are, or: be as you appear.
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IF THERE IS ANY HOPE, IT IS IN THE FUTURE GENERATIONS, BUT NOT UNLESS WE INSTITUTE MAJOR CHANGE ON A WORLDWIDE SCALE IN OUR PRESENT EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM. WE NEED A REVOLUTION IN OUR COMMITMENT TO AND PRACTICE OF UNIVERSAL HUMANITARIAN VALUES. ― HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA
Tibetan Buddhist nun praying Photograph courtesy of Olivier Adam
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PRAYER BEFORE THE PRAYER OF FORGIVENESS BY ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU
I want to be willing to let go, to forgive. But dare not ask for the will to forgive, in case you give it to me And I am not yet ready. I am not yet ready for my heart to soften. I am not yet ready to be vulnerable again. Not yet ready to see that there is humanity in my tormentor’s eyes Or that the one who hurt me may also have cried I am not yet ready for the journey. I am not yet interested in the path I am at the prayer before the prayer of forgiveness Grant me the will to want to forgive. Grant it to me not yet but soon Can I even form the words?
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Forgive me? Dare I even look? Do I dare to see the hurt I have caused: I can glimpse all the shattered pieces of that fragile thing That soul trying to rise on the broken wings of hope But only out of the corner of my eye. I am afraid of it. And if I am afraid to see How can I not be afraid to say: Forgive me? Is there a place where we can meet? You and me The place in the middle where we straddle the lines Where you are right and I am right too. And both of us are wrong and wronged Can we meet there? And look for the place where the path begins The path that ends when we forgive.
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Watercolor illustrations by Danica Novgorodoff 78
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SECTION IV
BOOKS & FILMS GUEST LIST BIBLIOGRAPHY
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BOOKS & FILMS
EMBARKING ON A JOURNEY TO DHARAMSALA, INDIA TO MEET WITH HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA WILL BE A TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE, DELVING INTO THE REALMS OF SPIRITUALITY, WISDOM, AND SELF-DISCOVERY. TO ENRICH YOUR PREPARATION AND FOSTER A MINDFUL MINDSET, WE HAVE CREATED A CURATED LIST OF FILM AND BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS. THESE SELECTIONS, CAREFULLY CHOSEN FOR THEIR ABILITY TO EVOKE THE ESSENCE OF INDIA, TIBETAN CULTURE, AND THE PROFOUND TEACHINGS OF HIS HOLINESS, SERVE AS COMPANIONS ON YOUR JOURNEY TOWARD SPIRITUAL EXPLORATION AND CULTURAL IMMERSION. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THESE CINEMATIC AND LITERARY TREASURES AND ALLOW THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF STORYTELLING TO DEEPEN YOUR CONNECTION WITH THE PROFOUND WISDOM AWAITING YOU IN INDIA.
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SUGGESTED READING
FREEDOM IN EXILE T H E AU TO B I O G R A P H Y OF THE DALAI LAMA by His Holiness the Dalai Lama In this book, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, reveals the incredible inner strength that allowed him to master both the mysteries of Tibetan Buddhism and the brutal realities of Chinese Communism.
MY LAND AND MY PEOPLE by His Holiness the Dalai Lama His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s first autobiography chronicles the story of his life and provides a history of the struggles faced by Tibet and its people.
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T H E B O D H I S AT T VA G U I D E : A C O M M E N TA RY O N T H E WAY O F T H E B O D H I S AT T VA by His Holiness the Dalai Lama His Holiness the Dalai Lama provides commentary on specific sections of the The Way of the Bodhisattva, showing the reader how they can develop a “good heart,” and underscoring the importance of aspiring towards happiness.
ETHICS FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM by His Holiness the Dalai Lama This book explores the evolving ethical challenges of the modern era, offering insights into fostering compassion, responsibility, and mindfulness to navigate the complexities of contemporary society and shape a more harmonious future.
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B E YO N D R E L I G I O N : ETHICS FOR A W H O L E WO R L D by His Holiness the Dalai Lama This book presents a secular approach to cultivating universal ethical principles, advocating for the promotion of compassion and kindness as the foundation for a global ethical framework that transcends religious divides, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious world.
T H E B O O K O F J OY : LASTING HAPPINESS I N A C H A N G I N G WO R L D by His Holiness the Dalai Lama & Archbishop Desmond Tutu
This book explores the life experiences of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, offering insights on creating joy amid personal and political challenges. Through sharing intimate stories and laughter, the leaders, self-described “rascals,” outline pillars of joy, urging readers to find inner peace through shared humanity and compassion, including in the face of oppression and adversity.
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S U G G E S T E D WATC H I N G
M I S S I O N J OY : FINDING HAPPINESS IN TROUBLED TIMES His Holiness the Dalai Lama & Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Directed by Louie Psihoyos & Peggy Callahan, Mission Joy explores the friendship between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The film takes place at the Dalai Lama’s residence in Dharamsala, where Archbishop Tutu and the Dalai Lama share laughter and stories from their lives.
KUNDUN Kundun, directed by Martin Scorsese, is a film that follows the life of the 14th Dalai Lama, including his spiritual journey and the political challenges he faced.
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Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheels
Tibetan Buddhist Nun practices in her room. Geden Choeling Nunnery, Dharamsala Photograph courtesy of Olivier Adam
DIVERSITY IS THE STRENGTH AND BEAUTY OF OUR SHARED HUMANITY. ― REVEREND NONTOMBI NAOMI TUTU
GUEST LIST Gerardo Abboud
PC Crown
Abdallah Gad
Glenn Asakawa
Teresa de Anchorena
Kirsten Gelsdorf
Natalie Avalos
Nina de Clercq
Carolyn Gleason
Huda Aziz
Ann Elizabeth Dehner
Michael Goetz
John Barrall
Anthony DeMauro
Shaman Gupta
Nikki Bechtold
Lynn Dengel
Harriet Hanlon
Kelli Sutton Block
Sona Dimidjian
Vuyo Henda
Suzanne Bond
Philip P. DiStefano
Brady Hogan
Drayton Boylston
Tim Edmond
Tim Huang
Owsley Brown III
Meghan Fall
Thupten Jinpa
Gabriel “One Feather” Cervantes
Angela Farone
Adam Kane
Arthur Combs
Gibson Farone-Collins
Ellen Kellner
Damilola “Fash” Fasoranti
Vijay Khatri
Daniel Conroy
Megan Kiernan
Mansi Kotak
Paige Oliver
Serene Singh
Katy Kotlarczyk
Bill Penuel
Ian H. Solomon
Marty Krasney
Scott Peppet
Tiffany Steinwert
Ludwig Kuttner
Erica Perez
Susan Sujanto
Karen Leshner
Eric Preston
Leah Teeters
Carolina Licalzi
Brittanie Richardson
Beth Teeters
Jeremy Lowry
Tandean Rustandy
James Terburg
Addi Mavengere
Shubham Sapkota
Ruchi Varma
Jeremy May
Shari Sapp
Janet Visick
Donna Mejia
Jules Sapp
Heidi Wagner
Kelly Conroy Moore
Abigail Scholer
Jonah Willihnganz
Flavia Neves Maia
Kayti Sewell
Millie Wright
Khang Nguyen
Michelle Shedro
Julia Zigarelli
Cynthia Nimmo
Toni Shottenkirk
Stephen Ogweno
Shrutika Silswal
Left: Triund hilltop in Himachal Pradesh Above: Star trails above the Himalayan Mountains in Dharamsala, India D H A R A M S A L A , I N D I A 2024
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BIBLIOGRAPHY Tibetan Monastery
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(n.d.). Company. KIPO! https://www.tigerlion.org/kipo/company.php (n.d.). The Norbulingka Institute. Norling. http://www.tibet.org/norling/index.html (n.d.). The Tibet Museum. Museums of the World. https://museu.ms/museum/ details/17035/the-tibet-museum [DesmondTutuPeaceFoundation]. (2013, August 29). Ubuntu: The Essence of Being Human [Video]. Youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44xbZ8MN1uk&t=61s “Dalai Lama Library and Archives’ Award Gallery to Open for Public Visit.” Central Tibetan Administration, Central Tibetan Administration, 11 Dec. 2023, tibet.net/dalailama-libraray-and-archives-award-gallery-to-open-for-public-visit/ 2020 Dalai Lama Trust (2022, July 7). The Dalai Lama Trust Presents the Dalai Lama Library and Archives. Dalailamatrust.org. Retrieved December 13, 2023, from https://dalailamatrust.org/project/the-dalai-lama-library-and-archives/ Aims and Objectives. (n.d.). Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. https://tibetanlibrary. org/aims-and-objectives/ Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2023, November 21). Dharmshala. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Dharmshala-India Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2024, January 7). Tibetan Buddhism. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Tibetan-Buddhism Bstan-ʼdzin-rgya-mtsho. (1999). Ethics for the New Millenium (p. 147). Riverhead Books. Bstan-ʼdzin-rgya-mtsho. (1999). Ethics for the New Millenium (pp. 202-203). Riverhead Books. Central Tibetan Administration (2019, October 30). Sixty years of excellence in Tibetan performing art: An exile success story. Sixty Years of Excellence in Tibetan Performing art: An Exile Success Story. https://tibet.net/sixty-years-of-excellence-in-tibetanperforming-art-an-exile-success-story/ Chawla, S. (2018, September 25). From Illiteracy to PhD: How Exiled Tibetan Buddhist Nuns Are Ensuring Gender Parity. The Wire. https://thewire.in/religion/from-illiteracyto-phd-how-exiled-tibetan-buddhist-nuns-are-ensuring-gender-parity Chhomo, S. (2023, January 6). In Dharamshala, An Institute Holds On To Ancient Tibetan Arts. Outlook. https://www.outlookindia.com/travel/in-dharamshala-an-institute-holdingon-to-ancient-tibetan-arts-and-crafts-news-200021
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Dalai Lama. (1991). Freedom in Exile: The autobiography of the Dalai Lama. New York, NY: Harper Perennial. Dalai Lama, H. H. (1997). My Land and My People (Padmakara Group, Trans.). Grand Central Publishing. Dalai Lama, H.H. (2001). Ethics for the New Millennium. Riverhead Books. Dalai Lama, H.H. (2012). Beyond Religion: Ethics for A Whole World. Harper One. Dalai Lama, H.H., Desmond Tutu, A., & Abrams, D. C. (2016). The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World. Avery. Dalai Lama, H. H. (2018). The Bodhisattva Guide (Padmakara Group, Trans.). Shambala. Dalai Lama inaugurates first Tibetan college in India - www.phayul.com. (2009, October 11). Web.archive.org. https://web.archive.org/web/20091011232613/http:// www.phayul.com/news/article.aspx?id=23836&article=Dalai+Lama+inaugurates+first+ Tibetan+college+in+India&t=1&c=1 Department of Religion and Culture (2023, November 9). Norbulingka Institute Celebrates 28th Founding Anniversary. Central Tibetan Administration. https://tibet.net/norbulingkainstitute-celebrates-28th-founding-anniversary/ Dharma Documentaries (2018, October 5). Life of Tibetan Buddhist Nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery. https://dharma-documentaries.net/life-of-tibetan-buddhist-nuns-at-dolma-lingnunnery His Holiness the Dalai Lama [@DalaiLama] (2022, April 25). We must continually consider the oneness of humanity, remembering that we all want to be happy. [Tweet]. X. https://twitter.com/DalaiLama/status/1518522784095563776 History of LTWA. (n.d.). Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. Retrieved February 9, 2024, from https://tibetanlibrary.org/history-of-ltwa/ Huber, Toni (1999). The Cult Of Pure Crystal Mountain : Popular Pilgrimage and Visionary Landscape in Southeast Tibet. Oxford University Press. Lama, T. 14th D. (2024, February 9). Dalai Lama Library & Archive Inauguration. The 14th Dalai Lama. https://www.dalailama.com/pictures/dalai-lama-library-archive-inauguration Lama, T. 14th D. (2024, February 9). Inaugurating the Dalai Lama Library and Archives. The 14th Dalai Lama. https://www.dalailama.com/news/2022/inaugurating-the-dalailama-library-and-archives
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Le Guin, U. K. (1997). Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching A Book About the Way and the Power of the Way. Shambala. Lopez, D. S. (2023, December 13). 14th Dalai Lama. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Dalai-Lama-14th Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture (n.d.). History of Norbulingka. https://norbulingka.org/pages/history-of-norbulingka Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture (n.d.). Our Vision - Preserving Tibetan Culture. https://norbulingka.org/pages/our-vision-preserving-tibetan-culture P. R. (2023, April 27). Experience the Tibetan culture at Tsuglagkhang Complex in McLeodganj. Times Travel. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/ experience-the-tibetan-culture-at-tsuglagkhang-complex-in-mcleodganj/articleshow/99319780.cms Patgaonkar, J. (2022, January 21). Library of Tibetan Works and Archives: Surviving Against All Odds. PeepulTree. https://www.peepultree.world/livehistoryindia/story/ heritage-matters/library-of-tibetan-works-and-archives Psihoyos, L., & Callahan, P. (Directors). (2021). Mission Joy: Finding Happiness in Troubled Times [Film]. Rtv News (2023, November 22). A Haven of Harmony: Exploring Dolma Ling Nunnery in the Himalayas. https://www.rtvonline.com/english/international/12618/A-Haven-ofHarmony-Exploring-Dolma-Ling-Nunnery-in-the-the-Himalayas Santideva, S. (1997). A Guide to the Bodhisattva Way of Life (V. A. Wallace & A. B. Wallace, Trans.). Snow Lion. Scorsese, M. (Director). (1999). Kundun [Film]. Shridhare, L. (2022, August 1). I Am Tibetan, This Is My Story. The Buddhist Review Tricylce. https://tricycle.org/article/tibet-museum-dharamsala/ The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives - A Precious Gift. (n.d.). The Meridian Trust. Retrieved February 9, 2024, from https://meridian-trust.org/the-library-of-tibetan-worksand-archives-a-precious-gift/ The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama (n.d.). Brief Biography. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet. https://www.dalailama.com/the-dalai-lama/biography-and-daily-life/ brief-biography
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PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS Photographs on pages 8, 59, 69, 75, 86-87 courtesy of Olivier Adam. Olivier Adam is a freelance photographer and a teacher of photography in Paris, France. He has been documenting the rich and luminous world of Buddhist nuns since 2008. His photographs focus on the spiritual path and the strength of Tibetan nuns. His pictures are regularly published in English and French magazines, and he also regularly works for the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Holiness Karmapa, taking pictures during the Dalai Lama’s European travels. Olivier and Dominique help many charity projects that support Himalayan nuns.
ILLUSTRATION CREDITS Watercolor illustrations on the cover, and pages 12, 78, 81-84 by Danica Novgorodoff. Danica Novgorodoff is a writer and New York Times best-selling illustrator. Her books include the graphic novels Long Way Down, written by Jason Reynolds; Slow Storm; The Undertaking of Lily Chen; and Refresh Refresh; the cookbook The Simple Art of Rice, with Chef JJ Johnson, and the picture books Alexander von Humboldt: Explorer, Naturalist, and Environmental Pioneer; and Not a Cat, written by Winter Miller. In 2022, Danica was awarded the Yoto Kate Greenaway Medal, the UK’s most prestigious award for children’s book illustration. She was awarded a 2015 New York Foundation for the Arts fellowship in literature, was named Sarabande Books’ 2016 writer in residence, and received a 2020 Café Royal Cultural Foundation grant in literature. Her art and writing have been published in The New Yorker, MoMA Magazine, Best American Comics, The Believer, Artforum, Orion, and others.
Thank you to Annie Langan, who designed this book.
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THIS IS MY SIMPLE RELIGION. THERE IS NO NEED FOR TEMPLES; NO NEED FOR COMPLICATED PHILOSOPHY. OUR OWN BRAIN, OUR OWN HEART IS OUR TEMPLE; THE PHILOSOPHY IS KINDNESS. ― HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA
Sunset in Dharamsala, India