The Dalai Lama returned to Mcleod Ganj after undergoing a treatment for pinched nerve in one of his arms in Delhi on Monday.Upon arrival at the Kangra airport he said is feeling better and will resume his schedule after a few days rest.“I am feeling much better now. Some pain yesterday (pointing towards his arm),” he told reporters at the airport.“I hope in the next two or three days it will be fine.”He was rushed to Delhi on Monday after he complained of discomfort in one of his arms.Doctors at the Apollo hospital diagnosed the cause of the pain as pinched nerve.

After the Dalai Lama [ Opinion Story/Saransh Sehgal 03rd Feb 09 ]

Dalai Lama admited to Hospital in Delhi treated for pinched nerve [ 02th Feb 09 ]

The Dalai Lama was taken to a hospital in Delhi for treatment for a pinched nerve, according to his secretary.“His Holiness suffered from pinched nerve in one of his arms,” secretary Tenzin Taklha told.“The treatment was just finished. There is nothing serious,” Taklha said at 6.49 p.m. India time from outside the hospital.

The Dalai Lama was taken to Apollo hospital for the treatment this morning from Dharamsala, in northern India.He will return to the hill-top town tomorrow according to Taklha.The Dalai lama will be in Bylakuppe, a Tibetan settlement in south India during Losar, Tibetan New Year, later this month.

According to Reuters, he also has plans to visit Germany and Italy beginning 8 February.The Tibetan leader is scheduled to leave India on Sunday to visit Rome and Venice in Italy and Baden Baden in Germany where he will receive the German Media Prize. The prize is annually awarded to personalities who have shown exceptional commitment and contributed to shaping a more peaceful and socially just world.Former United States president Bill Clinton and U2 singer Bono are among former awardees.

Dalai Lama to give inaugural address at India Today Conclave [ 01st Feb 09 ]

Himachal's Kangra Valley Railway recommended for UNESCO list [ 01st Feb 09 ]

Close on the heels of induction of century-old Kalka-Shimla Rail (KSR) in UNESCO's heritage list, the pre-independence era Kangra Valley Railway KVR) in Himachal Pradesh has been recommended for inclusion in the UN body's world heritage status for 2009.Considering its historical and cultural importance, KVR has been nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO heritage list, Rajesh Agarwal, Executive Director (heritage) in the Railway ministry, said over phone. If accepted, Himachal Pradesh, a favourite tourist destination, would have the unique distinction of having two of its railway lines in the prestigious list. KSR, an engineering marvel built in 1903, found place in the UNESCO heritage list last year. This was the third railway line in the country after Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Nilgiri Mountain Railway to be accorded the heritage status.

Though not much has been written about KVR -- Pathankot- Jogindernagar Kangra Valley Railway -- as compared to KSR, the 163-km track meanders through a maze of hills and valleys offering travellers enchanting and scenic views.Built between 1926 and 1929 for transporting raw material to the Shannan power house at Jogindernagar in Mandi district, KVR runs parallel to the mighty Dhauladhar range, literatures on KVR said.Opened for traffic on April 1, 1929, KVR has more than 950 bridges and two tunnels.The journey offers a sweeping view of the scenic mountains while stopping at 30 small stations.

Indian supporters on mass awareness campaign tour in Dharamsala [ 31st Jan 09 ]

Can You Choose Your Reincarnated Successor? [ Opinion Story , 31st Jan 09 ]

No Tibetan New Year movement gains momentum [ 27th Jan 09 ]

The curious case of Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama's scarf [ 27th Jan 09 ]

Fire at Tibetan Library (Ghangchen Kyishong), one dead [ 26th Jan 09 ]

Dalai Lama greets Chinese people on New Year [ 25th Jan]

Himachal celebrates its 39th Statehood Day [25th Jan 09]

20 migratory birds found dead in Pong Dam , Himachal Pradesh [ 23rd Jan 09 ]

Dalai Lama congratulates Obama on being 44th President of United States of America [ 20th Jan 09 ]

Gaza Israel war casts a shadow over tourism in Northern Indian State [ 20th Jan 09 ]

Department of education of Central Tibetan Administration conducting worldwide survey [17th Jan 09]

Exiled Tibetan leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the former Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam shares a moment at the Tibetan leader’s residence in Dharamsala on Friday, January 2, 2009. Dr Kalam, better known as the “Missile Man of India” for his immense contribution to the Indian Missile and Space programs, is on a two-day visit to Himachal Pradesh. (Photo: Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL)

Former Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam meets The Dalai Lama In his Residence in McleodGanj(Dharamsala) [2nd Jan 09 ]

Tibetan exiles shun New Year celebrations in Dharamsala[1st Jan 2009]

Exiled Tibetans avoided New Year celebrations in protest against China’’s occupation of their homeland. Tibetan Prime Minister-in-exile Samdong Ripoche said, “We are doing only religious ceremonies. We are not doing much pomp to mark our solidarity with the people suffering inside Tibet.” The Tibetans claim that the “Chinese atrocities” have increased since the March 14, 2008 Tibetan uprising in Lhasa, which China blamed on the Dalai Lama and his “clique.” The riots later spilled over to the rest of Tibet and neighboring Chinese provinces with Tibetan populations, drawing global attention. Rights groups say hundreds remain in jail following the protests where they are subjected to harsh treatment and even torture. India is home to about 150,000 Tibetan exiles, most of whom arrived after escaping from Chinese in Tibet, over the past few decades.

HP's Fashion Institute to be Opened in Kangra [ 31st Dec 08]

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) branch slated to be set up in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district would start its admission process from August next year, an official release said Saturday."The NIFT would start its first batch from August next year," the release said.Textile Minister Shankarsingh Vaghela would lay the foundation stone of the institute at Chheb village near Kangra town Jan 23.The state government has provided 10 acres free of cost for setting up the institute. It would also contribute Rs 580 million (Rs 58 crore).The proposed site has been selected by a team of experts headed by NIFT director-general Rajiv Tarku.The fashion institute would help provide global exposure to hand-knitted woollens by state rural craftsmen like shawls, stoles, mufflers, socks, gloves, pullovers and caps, Kangra paintings, Chamba rumal (handkerchief), and jewellery items.

Tibetans in Exile Still hold their Dream [Opinon Story Dec]

Kangra Art School preserving miniature paintings [ 25 Dec 08 ]

Kangra Art Museum in Himachal Pradesh is making an endeavour to save the miniature paintings showcasing Kangra art form in a special way.The single art school of its own kind is being run in the museum for children and youth aged between 14 to 30 years. It is training many youngsters in Kangra Art form and also enabling them for self-employment.These art students are learning basic techniques of Kangra Art and getting familiar with this extra ordinary centuries old art form and its beautiful color combination and representation techniques.The art classes were started here in the year of 2002 with the efforts of department of language and culture and the district administration, when a scheme from the centre government was approved to promote the Kangra Art and to teach this art.Located in Dharamsala, Kangra Art museum has treasured the artefacts and paintings dating back to the 5 century. There is a separate gallery in this museum that is devoted only to the Kangra paintings.Kangra paintings also known as Pahari painting, were patronised by Rajput rulers between the 11th and 19th century. The most popular theme of Kangra painting was inspired by the eternal love pair Radha-Krishna.A striking feature of Kangra Art form lies in the use of different shades of green. These paintings present feminism in a very elegant fashion, as features depicted are usually soft and subtle. Greenery and naturalism is strongly depicted in Kangra paintings.

I feel like a citizen of Himachal, Dalai Lama [ 17th Dec 08 ]

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Wednesday said he had been living in this hill station Dharamsala of Himachal Pradesh for so long that he feels “like a citizen” of the state.”I have spent most of my life in this hill station. Now I feel like a citizen of Himachal Pradesh,” the Dalai Lama said on his maiden visit to the state assembly complex here.Since 2004, the winter session of the state assembly has been held in Dharamsala, while the summer session has been held in Shimla.The Dalai Lama addressed Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal as “my chief minister”.“Sometimes this friend becomes the chief minister (pointing towards Virbhadra Singh) and sometimes this (Dhumal). Sometimes if one works, the other gets the chance to take rest and think…,” he said, referring to the two dominant parties (the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress) of the state.“I am the third party… and the third party is the zero party,” the Dalai Lama said with a laugh.“It’s the Dalai Lama’s first visit to the state assembly… (this) is historic,” said Tenzin Taklha, a senior aide to the spiritual leader.

click for Tibetan Protests News Page

News December-November-October-September -August 2008

Dalai Lama says better if he retires completely [ 17 th Dec08 ]

After months of speculation over his retirement, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Wednesday declared that the future course of the movement that he spearheaded for nearly five decades will now be decided by 'Prime Minister of government-in-exile' Samdhong Rinpoche."I have grown old and already taken semi-retirement. It is better if I retire completely and get out of the way of the Tibetan movement,"."The future course of Tibetan movement will be decided by the elected government under Prime Minister Samdhong Rinpoche," the Tibetan temporal head said.
The Dalai Lama said that "henceforth your questions about furture course of Tibetan movement and talks with China would be answered by the (Tibetan) Prime Minister" in exile.The Dalai Lama said his complete retirement would strengthen democracy in Tibet."How long shall I continue to lead the Tibetan movement?" he asked and referred to democratic tradition in India where parties come to power through elections.The Dalai Lama had visited "Tapovan", the new assembly building of Himachal Pradesh here, on invitation of the Speaker.On the Mumbai terror attacks, the Dalai Lama said he "shared" the pain of the Indian people over such incidents which "come in the way of world peace" "Only people who have lost mental balance can indulge in such terrorist acts," he said. Describing India as "role model" for "non-violence" and "religious tolerance", the Tibetan spiritual leader said the country could guide the world in establishment of peace.
"Indian democracy is age old and in modern times too, it presents a good example for others," he said."Different religions like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism co-exist in India in a healthy environment.... India shall guide the world how to run wonderful democracy," he added.

Dharamsala Winter Session Concludes [17th Dec 2008 ]

The weeklong winter session of the 11th Vidhan Sabha concluded at Tapovan complex near Dharamsala on Wednesday.The session held 5 sittings during which various important issues were discussed and bills passed.It is only for the second time that any session has been held outside the state capital Shimla, Dharamsala is the state Winter Capital.

Dalai Lama inaugurates Cricket Match at Dharamsala [ 17th Dec 08 ]

His Holiness Dalai Lama inaugurated the one-day Cricket Match played between Governor Eleven and CM Eleven held in the Cricket Stadium at Dharamsala today. In his address on the occasion, His Holiness Dalai Lama congratulated the State Government for holding the Winter Session of Vidhan Sabha at Dharamsala. He also congratulated the players of both the teams and added that his first visit to the Stadium was a memorable experience. Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister thanked His Holiness Dalai Lama on behalf of the State Government for visiting the Vidhan Sabha and the Cricket Stadium. He said that His Holiness Dalai Lama was an internationally known personality who had been honoured by conferring various awards including the Nobel Prize.

Tibetan parliament-in-exile speaker sworn in [ 16th Dec ]

Penpa Tsering Tuesday took oath of office as the speaker of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile, an official statement said.Tsering, a member of Tibetan parliament from Domey province, was sworn-in by Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama at a ceremony held in this Himachal Pradesh hill station.Tsering replaced Karma Chophel, whose term ended Nov 30.“Chophel was on the post for two and a half years. Penpa will now hold the position for the remaining half of the five-year term of the 14th parliament-in-exile,” said the statement.The Tibetan parliament, which also serves as the seat of the government-in-exile, is the highest legislative organ of the Tibetan exiles.The parliament has 43 members, who are elected representing the three traditional provinces, four Buddhist sects and the traditional Bon religion of Tibet.

Tibetans in Exile Still hold their Dream [Opinon Story-15th Dec]

Chinese held in McleodGanj, A Chinese national was arrested in Mcleodganj, on Saturday where the headquarters of the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama are located, for moving without valid documents, police said.Kangra Superintendent of Police Atul Fulzele said that the Chinese national had been identified as Lei-xun (spelt Lei Youchi), and was found moving in Mcleodganj when he was asked to show necessary documents. However, when he was unable to produce any, the police took him in custody and questioned him.Fulzele said that Lei-Xun has been arrested under the the Foreigners Act.[13th December 2008]

HH The Dalai Lama is back in Dharamsala after a visit to Poland.The Dalai Lama also met French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Poland.Thousands of Tibetans carrying incense sticks gathered here to welcome their leader. [ 13th December 2008]

Statement from His Holiness The Dalai Lama on Human Rights Day - " I am greatly encouraged by the launching of a Charter ’08 by academics, artists, farmers and lawyers in China on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their call for political, legal and constitutional reform is admirable.I personally believe that President Hu Jintao’s call for a harmonious society is a laudable initiative that can provide space to the viewpoints being expressed by a growing number of Chinese people. A harmonious society can only come into being when there is trust among the people, freedom from fear, freedom of expression, rule of law, justice and equality.I would like to urge the Chinese leadership to consider making efforts to bring about unity and stability in a civilized way.I would also like to take this opportunity to call upon the government of the People’s Republic of China to release prisoners of conscience, including Hu Jia, who have been detained for exercising their freedom of expression."[11th December 2008

Tibetan Exiles Celebrate 19th Anniversary of Dalai Lama's Nobel Peace Prize and mark International Human Rights Day Click

His Holiness The Dalai Lama offers deep Condolences to Mumbai terror victims- Click to Read

Dalai Lama speaks after Tibetans Exiles end Special meet, rules out Retirement and reaffirms Middle Way-Click to Read

Tibetans Exiles end special meet back Dalai Lama's ' Middle way ' Approach-Click to Read

'Chela' Dalai asks 'Guru' India to help Tibet (Times of India) ,

In a rare statement involving India in the Tibetan issue, the Dalai Lama on Thursday directly asked New Delhi to help resolve the crisis that has been at the centre of strained border ties between Asia's two biggest nations."India and Tibet have the relationship of a 'guru and chela' (master and disciple), and when the chela is in trouble, the guru must look after him," the Dalai Lama said, speaking at a private function of an Indian organisation here. Though the Tibetan leader has talked of the guru-chela relationship on a few occasions in the past, this is the first time that he has asked India to help resolve the issue by rescuing Tibet from the trouble it is facing. The statement assumes more significance as it has come in the middle of the week-long conclave of 600 Tibetan community leaders who are discussing and preparing the future strategy of the Tibetan movement. "This appeal to New Delhi is really important. It shows that the Tibetan struggle may be at a turning point," said a high official of the Tibetan government in exile, speaking on condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to comment on the Tibetan leader's statement.

Himachal Pradesh's Pong wetlands welcome 40,000 migratory birds(IANS)

Verdant forests, islands of shrubbery and grassy swamps in these Himalayan foothills are once again agog with flappings of feathered guests.Covering thousands of kilometres from north Asia, more than 40,000 migratory birds of several species have arrived and are present these days at Pong Dam wetlands in Kangra district.The Pong Dam has created one of the largest man-made wetlands in northern India.'The avian migration, which began at the fag-end of September, will continue till March. After the recent snowfall in the higher reaches of the trans-Himalayan areas, the arrival of the feathered guests has increased,' Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife) S.K. Guleria told IANS.According to Guleria, this time again the largest influx is of the bar-headed goose, coot, common pochard, red-crested pochard, great cormorant, pintail duck, river tern and the spotbill duck.More than 96,000 waterbirds, both migratory and local, were recorded in the Pong Dam area during a census conducted by the state forest department in February this year.The birds that depend on water bodies for roosting and feeding are called waterbirds.At that time four new species - the slender-billed gull, common snipe, white-tailed lapwing and the ferruginous pochard - were recorded.Guleria said the present trend of bird arrival this time also showed that by December-end their number would cross 100,000 mark.The bar-headed goose, the world's highest-altitude migrant, is a regular winter visitor here.'Our team recorded a good population of the bar-headed geese at Pong in February this year. Their number was 28,160, which works out to be more than 40 percent of the estimated world population of the bird,' said P.C. Tak, an ornithologist

HP assembly's winter session from December at Dharamsala

The week-long winter session of Himachal Pradesh assembly has been called from December 11 at Dharamsala the Winter Capital.A proposal to call assembly session from December 11 to December 17 has been approved by Governor Prabha Rau, a state assembly release said. The session would be held at Dharamsala, headquarter of Himachal Pradesh's largest district of Kangra which is considered the epicenter of state politics as majority MLAs come from there.

Young Tibetan exiles push for independence(AP News)

Young Tibetan leaders at a summit of exiles are pushing the Himalayan region to declare independence from China, while the older guard continues to support a more conciliatory approach toward Beijing, participants said.The tug-of-war over the future of the Tibetan movement comes after the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, publicly expressed frustration over the failure of his "middle way" approach to yield greater autonomy for the region.The meeting in the northern India hill town of Dharmsala, the base of Tibet's self-proclaimed government-in-exile, represents the first major re-evaluation of the Tibetan strategy since the Dalai Lama won the Nobel Peace Prize for outlining the policy, which rejects calls for outright independence, in 1988."I see a huge disparity" between the generations, said Tenzin Tsundue, 33, a participant in the meeting. "The younger generation, most of them speak for independence and that there should be no compromise with China. The elderly generation is completely supportive of the Dalai Lama's middle way approach, which he said is not working."

Dharamsala preparing to host ODI next year: Thakur (PTI)

The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association today said they were working fast towards meeting the ICC standards for an international stadium to host a one-dayer next year.
The shortcomings highlighted by the ICC in holding international matches at Dharamsala were being removed and the stadium will have a one-day match in 2009, HPCA President Anurag Thakur told reporters. The ICC team would inspect the stadium before February 2009. The road to stadium is being widened and the bridge to link the stadium is under construction. One five star hotel will be built by the Association near the stadium for housing the players, Thakur said. Thakur, who was recently made a member of the BCCI Marketing committee, said the Indian Cricket Board has already agreed to give the state an ODI in 2009 under rotational system.

Dalai Lama's elder brother Gyalo Thondup speaks out in Dharamsala

The Dalai Lama's elder brother, Gyalo Thondup, a former resistance leader whose meeting with Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping in 1979 began a series of contacts between Tibetans and the Chinese leadership, spoke publicly today in Dharamsala, India, to urge a continuation of engagement with China "because we have no choice".Eighty-year old Gyalo Thondup, a former chairman of the Tibetan cabinet (Kashag) in Dharamsala, was prompted to give a rare and detailed address to the media today after hardline comments by a Chinese official last week denying that Deng Xiaoping had said that "except independence all other issues can be settled through discussions". The Dalai Lama's Special Envoy Lodi Gyari had reminded the Chinese side of Deng's statement during the most recent eighth round of dialogue in the first week of November, but later his dialogue counterpart Zhu Weiqun, Executive Vice Minister of the Central United Front Work Department of the Chinese Communist Party, said: "Comrade Deng Xiaoping had never made such a statement. It is a falsehood made by Gyari and is a complete distortion of Deng Xiaoping's statement." Gyalo Thondup said today that he was "shocked" by Zhu's comments, because "it was myself to whom the late paramount leader, Deng Xiaoping, said that "except independence all other issues can be settled through discussions" on March 12, 1979.

Tibetans begin historic brain-storming Special Meeting (TibetSun)

[ In Photo : Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile Samdhong Rinpoche (second right) and Deputy Speaker of Tibetan parliament-in-exile Gyari Dolma (right) leading a procession to bring a portrait of the Dalai Lama to the venue of the Special Meeting of exile Tibetans at the Tibetan Children’s Village School in Dharamshala, India, on 17 November 2008 / Photo : Lobsang Wangyal ]

Around 600 exile Tibetans from around the world gathered in Dharamshala for a special six-day brain-storming session to find ways to fulfill the aspirations of the Tibetan people for a free Tibet.Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile Samdhong Rinpoche said that the situation in Tibet is serious and the suffering of Tibetans in Tibet is unspeakable since the March anti-China protests this year.“We must contribute and come together to closely discuss the views of the Tibetan masses on what future action needs to be taken on Tibet,” Rinpoche said.In the light of the failed talks with the Chinese government, Rinpoche said his government takes full responsibility for the outcome, and that he is not trying to shirk the responsibility of the failure or pass the blame to others. “We don’t have to look for somebody else to blame.”

China rejected a Tibetan proposal for implementing national regional autonomy within their boundaries as enshrined in the Chinese constitution, during the eighth round of talks in Beijing on 4th and 5th of this month.

The participants will be divided for discussion into 15 smaller groups of more than 30 members each. Each group will announce their results to the conclave on 21 November, and a final report will be compiled the same day.Further discussions on the final report will take place on 22 November, after which it will be presented to the Dalai Lama, who in turn may instruct the exile parliament to take futher action.

“Whatever stand may be decided for the future of Tibet, it should have the clear mandate of the people,” Rinpoche said. ( Published in TibetSun )

Dalai Lama arrives in Dharamsala ahead of Tibetan special Meet (News Post Online)

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama arrived in Dharamsala, seat of Tibetan government-in-exile on Saturday ahead of special meet.A meeting of Tibetan exiles is set to take place in Dharamsala beginning from November 17.Dalai Lama, who was on week-long visit to Japan, will not participate in the six-day meeting.The meeting, where Tibet’’s political unrest and its future are to be discussed between those seeking autonomy and independence, could become a turning point as different factions compete for influence over the exile movement.What he had to say he has already issued, that is a message to all the Tibetan people on Friday. Message is about the present situation and then he asked people to discuss for themselves, what shoulddo for future course of action, said Samdhong Rimpoche, Prime Minister, Tibetan government-in-exile.Tibetan parliamentarians, government officials, Tibetan self-help groups and representatives of Tibetan from India and abroad are expected to take part in the meet.

Dalai Lama not to attend session of exiles in Dharamsala(IANS)

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is not attending a six-day special session of exiles at McLeodganj near here from Nov 17 to discuss the future of the Tibetan movement, an aide said Thursday.The session was called by the government-in-exile that is based in northern India at the behest of the spiritual guru.“He (the Dalai Lama) does not want to influence his opinion (on the Tibet movement) by participating or addressing the meeting,” Thubten Samphel, a spokesperson for the government-in-exile told IANS.“The aim of the session is to hear views of all the invitees and not to influence our (the parliament-in-exile) viewpoint,” he said.The session would be attended by more than 500 Tibetan leaders, intellectuals, ethnic groups and others from across the globe.(IANS)

Tibetan exiles in Dharamsala pin their ”freedom hopes” on Obama

The Tibetan exiles in Dharamsala, the seat of the
Tibetan government-in-exile, are hoping that Barack Obama the US President-elect would help them restore human rights in Tibet.The exiles hope that Obama will extend full support to the people of Tibet in their fight for freedom from the alleged Chinese suppression.Frustrated with the lack of progress with China despite rounds of talks and the March crackdown on riots against Chinese rule in Tibet, many exiles wish that Obama would make the much-needed difference.“In his speech he has continuously mentioned about peace and freedom which he believes are the values of the Americans. The situation inside Tibet is grave and I am hopeful and optimistic,” said Tenzin Tcheoying, president of Students For Free Tibet.Tenzin said that Obama stands for the spirit of America and that he was impressed with his speech.Tibetans also believe that the foreign policy of America with respect to Tibet would prove to be fruitful for them in achieving autonomy.(IANS)

Tibetan exiles organise peace concert in Dharamsala(ANI)

Tibetan exiles in Dharamsala organised a music concert here to promote peace and harmony.

Organised by Raise the Tibetan Flag Campaign (RTFC) and a self-help group, ROGPA, the concert provided a chance to exiles to stay connected with their music, which they feel is dying a slow death after the Chinese invasion of their homeland.Such concerts they felt, help to preserve their culture.“The Tibetan music is dying. After 1959, we have along with the Dalai Lama, gone into exile, and the Chinese people have mostly shifted in Tibet. They are trying to mix the Chinese and the Tibetan music. They are trying to destroy the Tibetan music to adopt it to the Chinese music. So, therefore, the real Tibetan music must be cared for,” said Dorje Tsering, a Tibetan musician.Such events are an effort on their part to keep their culture intact and alive in the hearts, and also to make the younger generation aware of their heritage and roots. (ANI)

Dalai Lama to deliver peace lecture in Pune,India(IANS)

Tibetan spiritual guru the Dalai Lama will address a seminar on non-violence at Pune Nov 8, a statement of the Tibetan government-in-exile said here Tuesday.The seminar is being organised by the Sarvodaya Samaj, a group of followers of Mahatma Gandhi.Prime minister of the government-in-exile Samdhong Rinpoche will also attend the seminar.The Dalai Lama, along with many of his supporters, fled Tibet and took refuge in this Indian hill station in 1959. He has ever since been heading the Tibetan government-in-exile from here, which is not recognised by any country in the world.The spiritual guru is on a week-long visit to Japan these days.(IANS)

Dalai Lama on a visit to Japan

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Friday reached Japan where he will deliver a two-day lecture series on spirituality, beginning Nov 4.”He (the Dalai Lama) reached Japan Friday where a warm welcome was accorded to him by Tibetans, Japanese well-wishers and Buddhist monks at Narita airport near Tokyo,” Tenzin Taklha, the spokesman of the exiled leader, told IANS. “The spiritual guru will visit southwestern city of Fukuoka to deliver a talk on ‘Compassionate Mind: Key to a Happy Life’,” he added.On Nov 7, he will deliver a public talk in Tokyo.The Nobel Peace laureate last visited Japan in November 2007 at the invitation of the All-Japan Buddhist Federation and the Kanagawa Buddhist Federation.In recent months, the spiritual leader had cancelled his visits to Europe, Mexico and Dominican Republic after complaining of fatigue. He was recently operated upon in New Delhi for removal of stones in the gall bladder.After returning from Japan, he is set to visit Pune, Meerut and New Delhi for delivering sermons in the second week of November.(IANS News)

Dalai Lama says he has given up on China talks

The Dalai Lama said Saturday he has given up on efforts to convince China to allow greater autonomy for Tibet under Chinese rule.The Tibetan spiritual leader said he would now ask the Tibetan people to decide how to take the dialogue forward.
"As far as I'm concerned I have given up," "The issue of Tibet is not the issue of the Dalai Lama alone. It is the issue of 6 million Tibetans. I have asked the Tibetan government-in-exile, as a true democracy in exile, to decide in consultation with the Tibetan people the future course of action," the Dalai Lama said.
His speech was translated by his spokesman, Tenzin Takhla.
Dalai Lama made his first public appearance on Saturday during the celebration of the 48th anniversary of Tibetan Children Village (TCV) School, after his surgery for the removal of gallstones.
His Holiness emphasized on education, not general education but specialized education and that Tibetan young people must specialize in different fields of education.
Dalai Lama has also called a special meeting of Tibetan exiles in November to discuss this year’’s political unrest in Tibet and the future of the Tibetan movement in Dharamsala the Exile Home of His Holiness The Dalai Lama.

Dalai Lama attends the 48th anniversary of Tibetan Children Village in Dharamsala

The Dalai Lama greets a well-wisher as he leaves the Tibetan Children's Village School after attending the 48th anniversary of the school in Dharamshala on Saturday, 25 October 2008.(Courtesy : Phayul.com /Photo : Tenzin Dasel)

German pilot wins paragliding Pre World Cup,Event concludes.

Andreas Malecki of Germany emerged as the overall champion at the meet concluded at Bir-Billing.The Chief Minister addressing the closing ceremony of week long Himalayan Paragliding Pre-World Cup-2008 at Bir Billing in Baijnath, Kangra announced that 4.28 crores would be spent for upgradation of the infrastructural facilities to organize international paragliding World-cup facilities in Bir Billing.Malecki was given a cash award of Rs.100,000 by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal.

While Torsten Seigel of Germany finished second, Miha Razinger of Slovenia stood third.He said that Himachal as a state had tremendous potential for carrying out tourism related activities like para-gliding, trekking, mountaineering, mountain tracking, river rafting etc and congratulated the organizers for successful organization of the event and the participants as well.The first Pre-World Cup Event was organized in the year 2002 and has gained popularity with every passing year. The event gave away prizes to the winners and participants of the event and also congratulated them for the achievement.The take off site at Billing, situated at a height of 2,290 metres, offers an opportunity for high-altitude and cross-country flying in the Bir valley.The valley, located at a height of 1,480 metres, is surrounded by tea gardens and majestic Dhauladhar hills. The road distance between the two locations is 14 km.A world record was made at Bir-Billing in 1992 by French pilot Xavier Remond, who flew 130.9 km to set the “out and return world record”.The Federation Aviation International (FAI) recognises the pre-world cup at Bir-Billing and has granted it a ‘Category-II Status’ in the international ranking.

Dalai Lama returns to Dharamsala

Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, arrived here on Monday days after undergoing successful surgery to remove gallstones at a Delhi hospital.
Hundreds of Tibetans greeted their leader as he passed roads leading out of the airport. Floats were put up and Tibetans showered flowers on him.
Young and old, all waited eagerly to catch a glimpse of the Dalai Lama.“The Dalai Lama has fully recovered from the surgery,” said Tenzin Taklha, a secretary to the Tibetan leader.He is scheduled to leave for Japan in the first week of November, and plans to visit Belgium, the Czech Republic and Poland in November and December, Taklha said.

He is likely to attend the founding day celebrations of the Tibetan Children’s Village school in Dharamshala on 25 October.

The Dalai Lama had spent a few days at the Tibetan youth hostel in Delhi to rest after undergoing surgery to remove gallstones on 10 October at Sir Ganga Ram hospital in Delhi.

Indian glider creates history in Himalayan Pre-World Cup-2008

For the first time in the history of any international paragliding event, an Indian paraglider Ajay Sharma created history at Bir-Billing in the Himalayan Paragliding Pre-World Cup-2008 by winning a task in overall category.

Sharma, hailing from Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh secured the first position in the 57.4km task today in the overall category to secure 996 points. He is now lying in the fourth position in the mens overall category with an aggregate of 1789 points. In the second day''s task today, Andreas Malecki of Germany, Torsten Siegel also of Germany, Sergey Latyshev of Russia and Sharma secured 949, 948, 953 and 996 points, respectively

Dalai Lama leaves hospital after successful surgery

The Dalai Lama left hospital in India's capital on Thursday after recovering from successful surgery to remove gallstones, officials said.

The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader waved at people waiting outside the hospital before getting into a black Mercedes and being driven away.

"The treatment (was) very, very successful, now I am returning," a smiling Dalai Lama, before the convoy of cars took the spiritual leader away to a Tibetan youth hostel in the capital.

"He is in very good spirits and very happy to have had his surgery done here," Pradeep Chowbey, a hospital doctor said.Doctors said he will be fit to resume normal duties after some rest.(News Agency: Reuters)

Lhasang Tsering Poet/writer-activist speaks on Tibetan Freedom struggle says " Its not a Question of Hope, its about right of Freedom of human kind.The Mid-way policy seems a failure to their Freedom struggle.Says"There are no meaningful discussions going on with the chinese, They are sending more chinese people in Tibet then they have in Tibet.China is making Geonicide in Tibet".

Hundreds and Thousands Tibetans Flee to India every year and they are given free education, some join monastery , some get absorbed in handicrafts and other works.Lhasang says that our aim is to provide the best refugee to those refugees.(Reportage :Saransh Sehgal/Mcllo.com/India)

Sonam Choedon crowned Miss Tibet 2008

Sonam Choedon won the crown of Miss Tibet 2008 tonight at Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in McLeodGanj, Dharamsala, India.The only other contestant, Jamyang Chentso, was the runner-up.Sonam Choedon was born in Lithang in Kham, eastern Tibet in 1990 is just 18 years of age. She is a student, has studied up to class 8 in Tibet. She can speak fluent Chinese, as well as Tibetan.

She came into exile in India in June 2008 in search of better opportunities for education. Her hobbies include dancing, reading and studying languages.In the future she would like to become a dance teacher and also work on languages. She would also like to use her life and strength to help others in need as people have done for her when she first arrived in India.

More than two thousand people watched the live show at Tipa and enjoyed the Miss Tibet 2008 pageant Show.

Dalai Lama to be discharged soon: hospital

Exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is in a stable condition after surgery in India to remove gallstones and is likely to be discharged in the next two days, hospital officials said Saturday.

The Buddhist leader had the keyhole procedure in New Delhi on Friday, a day after he was hospitalised for medical tests after suffering abdominal pain."He is doing fine. He will be discharged maybe in a day or two," said an official at the city's Ganga Ram hospital, where the Nobel laureate is being treated.

Dalai Lama's surgery ends successfully: aide

Surgeons successfully removed gallstones from the Dalai Lama on Friday, an operation that will not prevent the Tibetan spiritual leader from traveling again by the end of the month, a top aide said.

Spokesman Chhime R. Chhoekyapa called the surgery "a simple, routine procedure."

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning Buddhist elder was hospitalized in New Delhi on Thursday. He had arrived earlier in the week for a checkup, his second in as many months, and aides said afterward that the 73-year-old had been cleared for foreign travel.

However, an aide said Friday that it was at that second checkup that doctors suggested the removal of gallstones, which the Dalai Lama has had for more than a decade.

"He will probably spend two days in hospital, then a few days in Delhi while he recovers. At the end of the month he will resume his schedule," aide Tenzin Taklha said.

Tibet activists set ablaze “China’s Ravan”

Tibetan activists paraded a demonized effigy, bearing photos of Chinese President Hu Jintao and Zhang Qingli, the current Chinese Communist Party Secretary to Tibet, before setting it on fire here today.

They called the effigy “China’s Ravan” and their act a symbolic celebration of the concluding day of Dussehra.

Dussehra is celebrated by Hindus as victory of “Good over evil” in which a Hindu mythological demon King Ravana is put on fire to mark end of evil’s reign.
Members of Students for a Free Tibet (SFT), India, today labeled Hu Jintao, who imposed Martial Law in Lhasa on March 8, 1989 following series of demonstrations by Tibetans during his tenure as the Chinese Communist Party Secretary to Tibet, as "China's Ravan".( Copyrights phayul.com)

Dalai Lama to undergo medical check-up

The Dalai Lama will have a medical check next week, a senior aide said on Saturday, calling it a routine follow-up after he was admitted to hospital with abdominal discomfort in August.

The 73-year-old exiled Tibetan spiritual leader has since recovered fully and remains cheerful, but doctors have advised him to cut down on long travels and rest more.

He will travel to New Delhi for a check-up on Monday.

"His health is fine. He's going down for a follow-up medical check up after the pain he had suffered in August," Tenzin Taklha told Reuters.

The Dalai Lama was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai with "abdominal discomfort" in August. He was released a few days later after doctors said there was no cause for concern.

A smiling Dalai Lama left the hospital for Dharamsala, the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile in northern India, where he has spent most of his time resting, discussing the situation in Tibet and teaching.(Copyright: Reuters)

Two to Tango for Miss Tibet 2008

Two brave and modern young Tibetan women will compete in the Miss Tibet pageant 2008. The two contenders will be disclosed on 12 October when they will come on stage to compete in four rounds of competitions in evening gown, talent, traditional costume and interview.Judges will decide the winner through the four rounds, which will have 10 points each. The two contenders will be trained in yoga, dance and stage craft, and will be given orientation on Tibetan culture for a week. The winner will receive a cheque for 100,000 rupees (2500 USD approx), and the second place will receive 50,000.00 rupees (1250 USD approx). The prize money is offered to help the winners further their education or vocational skills.

Gyalnor Tsewang, who is a member of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile as well as businessman from Nepal, donated 50,000 rupees for the pageant. Asia Health Resorts will be another co-sponsor. The Miss Tibet Pageant will take place on Sunday 12 October at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, starting at 7 p.m.(Saransh Sehgal/Mcllo.com/India)

Dalai Lama makes public appearance in Dharamsala,Teachings continue.

The Dalai Lama started his three-day preaching session Thursday in which more than 100 students from 12 countries are participating.

The Dalai Lama will deliver preach for five days on Arya Nagarjuna’s commentary on Bodhichitta from 30th September to 4th October.

If you are coming to(or you are in) Mcleodganj you can be a participant and register there for His Teachings at The Dalai Lama Temple.

His Holiness The Dalai Lama Teachings in Dharamsala from 25th of this Month and again from 30th to 4th October.Teachings Requested by Singapore and Taiwan Buddhist Groups.

Bush calls Dalai Lama, expresses health worries

US President George W. Bush telephoned the Dalai Lama on Tuesday to express concerns about his health and express his “great esteem” for Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, the White House said.“President Bush called the Dalai Lama this morning to express his concern over the Dalai Lama’s health,” said spokesman Gordon Johndroe.“The president’s call reflects the great esteem he and the American people hold for the Dalai Lama, who is a revered religious figure in Tibetan Buddhism, a Nobel laureate and a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, and an important cultural figure and human rights advocate,” said Johndroe.The Dalai Lama’s office announced Saturday that he was cancelling his tour next month of Germany and Switzerland for health reasons.(Copyright 2008 Agence France-Presse )

Diplomats of the Tibetan Government Meet

A two-day meeting of the representatives of the Dalai Lama began today at the premises of the exile Tibetan government here. The meeting which was closed to the media is expected to discuss various administrative issues concerning the Representative Offices among other things.
According to the exile government's official website, Kalon Tripa Samdhong Rinpoche said the eighth round of formal discussions between the envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the representatives of the Chinese government will focus on the implementation of national regional autonomy in Tibet as enshrined in the constitution of the People's Republic of China.The Tibetan Prime Minister also said that the representatives should take special responsibility to collect opinions of Tibetans living under their respective jurisdictions for the 'emergency meeting' in November.

Karmapa Stranded in Snow, Airlifted to Leh

Karmapa Ugyen Trinley Dorjee was rescued and airlifted to Leh in Jammu and Kashmir Sunday after he along with 13 others were stranded in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul and Spiti district for 48 hours due to heavy snowfall. The young head of Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism was rescued this evening from Baralacha pass in Lahaul and Spiti district was taken to Leh by a helicopter of the Indian Air Force,' secretary (revenue) Rakesh Kaushal told.'Before the rescue, the administration air-dropped blankets and eatables for the Buddhists and other stranded passengers on Baralacha pass'
The Baralacha pass is located at a height of 4,883 metres on the 475-km-long Manali-Leh highway.
'The Karmapa is fine and in good health,' said Kaushal, who is part of the disaster management committee set up by Himachal government after the torrent rain and snowfall.
The Karmapa, the only major monk reincarnate recognised by both the Dalai Lama and China, has been on a religious tour to Buddhist-dominated areas in Lahaul and Spiti district as well as in Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir since Sep 8.
'He was on his way to monasteries in Lahaul and Spiti from Ladakh when he was held up on the Manali-Leh highway Friday,' Lahaul and Spiti Superintendent of Police Prem Kumar Thakur said.

Dalai Lama cancels Swiss visit in October for health reasons

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has cancelled a visit to Switzerland next month on the advice of doctors urging him cut back his travels and to rest.The Dalai Lama has cancelled his European tour of Germany and Switzerland in October owing to health reasons, according to a statement issued from his office.“We are cancelling his tour in order to allow him more rest so that he doesn’t feel weak immediately again,” says Tenzin Taklha, the secretary to the Dalai Lama.His Holiness very much regrets the inconvenience this will cause to the organisers of his programmes as well as to those who were looking forward to participating in them. We hope everyone will understand the situation,” the statement said.The Dalai Lama’s two-week visit to the European countries was to give teachings on Buddhism and talks on ethics.

“His Holiness’ teachings in Dharamshala are on as scheduled,” says Taklha.He is scheduled to teach from the 25th of this month for three days and again from the 30th to 4th of October. These teachings were requested by two Buddhist groups, from Singapore and Taiwan respectively.

Dalai Lama asks for emergency meeting to discuss Tibet issue

In a letter issued from the office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, His Holiness has called on the speaker and deputy speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, and the Kashag, to convene an emergency general meeting to discuss the fundamental issues of Tibet. His Holiness said considering the recent crisis inside Tibet and the situation in the world in general, the emergency general meeting would be held under the article 59 of the Charter of the Tibetans-in-Exile.His Holiness said the meeting would be held in November and December this year.The composition of the representatives for the meeting shall include the members of the Tibetan Parliament and others appointed on its behalf; the Kashag shall jointly decide, in consultation with the Tibetan Parliament or the Standing Committee of the Parliament. After reading out the letter, Speaker Karma Chophel said since the Parliament is in session, a draft proposal will be formulated and tabled in the house for discussion on Monday.

Dharamsala to have food craft institute

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal Friday said the central government had agreed in principle to set up a food craft institute at Dharamsala in the state.'The central government would provide an assistance of Rs.47.5 million for construction and providing infrastructure to the institute, while the state government would meet the remaining expenditure,' Dhumal said, according to a statement

Dalai Lama cancels Swiss visit in October for health reasons

His Holiness very much regrets the inconvenience this will cause to the organisers of his programmes as well as to those who were looking forward to participating in them. We hope everyone will understand the situation,” the statement said.

The Dalai Lama’s two-week visit to the European countries was to give teachings on Buddhism and talks on ethics.

“His Holiness’ teachings in Dharamshala are on as scheduled,” says Taklha.

He is scheduled to teach from the 25th of this month for three days and again from the 30th to 4th of October. These teachings were requested by two Buddhist groups, from Singapore and Taiwan respectively.

Dalai Lama asks for emergency meeting to discuss Tibet issue

Dharamsala to have food craft institute

British MPs Visits Dharamsala, Show Support for Tibet

During a Press Conference at Dharamsala, Britsh MPs support Tibetan cause on their visit to Dharamsala.They said that the situation continues to be the same for the struggle of Tibetan Freedom.They said "This Issue is just not of Dalai Lama but an Issue of 6 million Tibetan People.People should be free to practice any religion and undertake activities.

The three MPs said that although they represent three different parties, they are united in support for the Tibetan cause.Describing 3 strong aspects that every supporters speak with one voice, spotlight on the main concern,Give more light on Tibetan Cause even after Chinese hold olympics as next year tibetans completes 50 years in Exile.They said that the People of China should get the message of abuse.

UK has a unique role to play in this Issue.

Dalai Lama Returns Dharamsala,recovers from illness

The Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, Tuesday reached his residence in this Himachal Pradesh hill town from Delhi, where he spent a few days after undergoing a series of medical tests at Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, his aide said."He (the Dalai Lama) reached his official palace Tuesday evening after spending 11 days in Delhi and Mumbai," Thubten Samphel, a spokesperson for the Tibetan government-in-exile."The spiritual guru is in excellent health... no need to worry...will be back to routine affairs in a few days," Samphel said.He said the Nobel Peace laureate had no plans to visit the US, where his eldest brother Taktser Rinpoche died Sep 5 but clarified that the decision had nothing to do with his leader's ill health.Meanwhile, thousands of Tibetans and their supporters gathered here since morning to welcome the Dalai Lama.The Dalai Lama, 73, reached Mumbai Aug 28 and was admitted to Lilavati Hospital after he complained of "abdominal discomfort". He left the hospital Sep 1.

Tibetans hold prayers to mourn death of Dalai Lama's brother

Special prayer sessions were organised in various monasteries in Himachal Pradesh Saturday to mourn the death of Taktser Rinpoche, the eldest brother of the Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan leader's intermediary for dialogues with Chinese officials.Taktser Rinpoche died in the US Friday evening after prolonged illness. He is survived by his wife Kunyang Norbu and three sons.

Thousands of Tibetans and their supporters gathered at the main temple here to participate in a special prayer session. 'It is a great loss to the exiled Tibetans. He was a tireless advocate for the protection of Tibetan culture and the rights of the Tibetan people in Tibet,' said Thubten Samphel, a spokesperson for the Tibetan government-in-exile.

He said the Dalai Lama had no plans to visit the US but clarified that the decision had nothing to do with the Tibetan spiritual leader's ill health.'He is now well. He is undergoing bed rest in Delhi. The doctors have told us that there is absolutely no cause for concern,' the spokesperson said.

Taktser Rinpoche, who was born Thupten Jigme Norbu, played important intermediary roles during the turbulent days of 1949-50 when China invaded Tibet.When in India he was the intermediary between the US State Department and the Dalai Lama during the protracted negotiations between Beijing and Lhasa surrounding signature of the controversial Seventeen Point Agreement - the document which was intended to give legitimacy to China's rule of Tibet. Recognised at the age of three as the reincarnated abbot of Kumbum monastery in modern-day Qinghai, one of the most important monasteries in Tibet, Takster was already a prominent figure in Tibet's religious hierarchy even before the Dalai Lama was born.

Exiled Tibetan monks attend a human rights conference in Dharamshala

Exiled Tibetan monks, living in India and neighbouring countries, have gathered here to take part in a human rights conference. Tibetan Center for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), a Tibetan NGO, has organised seven days workshop exclusively for monks and nuns of India, Nepal and Bhutan to make them aware about the principles of democracy and human rights.

The organizers feel that this is necessary for the Buddhists monks and nuns as they are mostly tied up in the work of the monasteries or with the Buddhist studies."We have to teach the monks how to practice the human rights also, because mostly these monks stay in monasteries and they practice Buddhism. They don't get much time to know about system of democracy, the principles and all these things that's why we are specially focusing on monks and nuns," said Lobsang, Program coordinator, TCHRD.

This is for the first time that such an effort has been initiated by the exiled Tibetans. About 72 Buddhists including 12 nuns are participating in this workshop.

Dalai Lama nominated for 2008 Sakharov prize

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has been nominated for the European Union Parliament's 2008 Sakharov prize, sources in the Tibetan government-in-exile said here on Friday.

He is among the eight nominees vying for the honour

Tibetans hold prayers to mourn death of Dalai Lama's brother

Exiled Tibetan monks attend a human rights conference in Dharamshala

Dalai Lama nominated for 2008 Sakharov prize

His Holiness The Dalai Lama Citing Exhaustion Cancels all Trips, engagements for 3 weeks

The Dalai Lama has cancelled his upcoming international trips after complaining of exhaustion, sparking concerns for his health. He spends several months a year traveling the globe to highlight the struggle of Tibetans for greater freedom from China and to teach Buddhism.

Statement Released from the Office of His Holiness:

"His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been experiencing some discomfort in the past couple of days. His personal physicians attributed this to exhaustion and have advised him to cancel his engagements for the time being and instead complete the remaining medical tests that began earlier this month in Mumbai.

It has therefore been decided that all his schedules for the next three weeks, including the visit to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, are being canceled with immediate effect. "

His Holiness will not be taking part in a global 12-hour prayer service and symbolic fasting for Tibet due to be on Saturday

Dalai Lama returns Dharamsala after a successful tour of France

The Dalai Lama returned after a successful 12-day tour of France amid a welcoming crowd lined along the way in Mcleod Ganj.The Dalai Lama’s tour was to give spiritual teachings to Buddhists and consecrate Buddhist temples.

The Dalai Lama is scheduled to lead a fast and prayer session for 12 hours on 30 August to highlight the Tibetan cause and his commitment towards non-violence.

Tibetans stage a protest march to register their anger as the Beijing Olympics conclude

Tibetans-in-exile staged a protest march in Dharamsala on Sunday to register their anger against China's 'occupation' of their homeland as the two-week long 29th Beijing Olympics conclude.

Chanting prayers and patriotic songs with some of protestors wearing black dresses and also having black ribbons on their heads to express their anguish at the 'occupation' of Tibet, the protestors marched through the streets of Dharmsala.

Earlier, Adhe Tapontsang (Ama Adhe), a former political prisoner who spent 27 years in Chinese 'labour camps' since her arrest in 1958, was the chief guest at the function organised to attract the world's attention towards their cause.

Tenzin Cheodon, member of Students for Free Tibet, said that end of Beijing Olympics was not the end of the Tibetans' struggle for freedom of their motherland but their struggle would continue.
"This is last day for Beijing Olympics and the Tibetans in Dharamsala and all over the world will be protesting against the China's illegal occupation of Tibet. This is not the end of the protest, these protests will continue and the Tibetans and the supporters of Tibet will keep on fighting Chinese illegal occupation of Tibet," said Cheodon.

Tibetans discuss the future course of their struggle in Dharamsala

Tibetan Non-Government Organisations held a seminar on Friday in Dharamsala to discuss the future strategy of the Tibetan struggle.
The members of four leading NGOs namely Students for Free Tibet, Tibetan Women Association, National Democratic Party of Tibet and Gu-Chu-Sum got together to decide the future course of Tibetan struggle.
The members of these NGOs comprised parliamentarians-in-exile and experts on Tibet-China issue who participated in the brain storming session.
So we are trying to look into the future of Tibetan issue as such or the repercussions it may have vis-a vis the policy of India, China and the world. So we are trying to have a brain storming session with our expert, said Tenzin Cheoying, President, Students for free Tibet.
These Tibetan members or activists felt a strong need to have a clear vision of their future and review their earlier policies.
After all these happenings, the Tibetans have to review its policy, its strategies, NGOs, Tibetan Government, its strategy as a whole. We need to understand its weaknesses and our power, Lobsang Yeshi, Cordinator, Tibetan People’’s Uprising Movement.
China has accused followers of the Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan leader, of stirring riots and protests in Tibetan region in March in a bid to upstage Olympic preparations. The Dalai Lama has denied the charge and said he does not oppose the Games.
The Dalai Lama has rejected accusations that he is behind the unrest and has supported the Chinese right to host the Olympics.
But groups campaigning for Tibetan independence have said they will use the Games to voice their demands and concerns over the alleged Chinese atrocities in Tibet.
China has controlled Tibet since People’’s Liberation Army troops marched into the region in 1950 and Beijing considers Tibet as an integral part of its territory.
Critics accuse China of repressing Tibetans” religious aspirations, especially their veneration for the Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989

Dalai Lama to lead post-Olympic global fast

The Dalai Lama will lead a global fast after the Beijing Olympics end next week to highlight the "Tibetan cause," the Tibetan government-in-exile said Friday.The announcement came after the Tibetan leader met French first lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy during his 12-day tour of France, where the spiritual leader prodded China to "march towards democracy."Chimme Choekyapa, a spokesman for the Dalai Lama, said the 73-year-old monk would lead the "symbolic 12-hour fast" by his followers worldwide on August 31.Samdhong Rinpoche, prime minister in the Tibetan government-in-exile which is based in this northern Indian town, said the fast would focus attention on Tibet."We consider this an extremely important non-violent action taken by Tibetans under the leadership of the Dalai Lama in a very critical period for Tibet, particularly the post-Olympic period," Rinpoche said."It will be one of the most important non-violent campaigns... to get support from the world community for world peace and fight against oppression in the world in general and particularly in Tibet," the Tibetan administration said.The Dalai Lama told French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner the only way China can "regain its respectability in the international community" was by engaging in a "march towards democracy."

China accuses the Dalai Lama of seeking independence for Tibet and of fomenting unrest to sabotage the Olympic Games, which end Sunday.

The monk insists he wants autonomy and religious freedom for Tibet - not independence.

US non-profit opens first special needs school in Dharamsala

Harmony Through Education (HTE), a US- based non- profit, opened doors to its first school in Dharamsala, India. The organization's mission is to provide education to the underserved population of children with mental and/or physical disabilities throughout the world. More than 100 community members convened at the July 14 opening, where the Dalai Lama honored the school by naming it the Illuminating Loving Kindness School. Dharamsala District Commissioner, KK Pant, attended the opening, representing the Indian government as HTEs chief guest.

The school opened with 15 students enrolled in the program, ranging in ages between 6 and 18, and serves children from economically poor backgrounds, who otherwise would not have access to formal education. HTE serves the entire family and requires parents and siblings to attend at least one monthly training session, which provides instruction regarding nutrition, hygiene and teaching skills they can work on with the students at home. "After spending several months in Dharamsala teaching children with special needs, I realized the lack of formal education available to this population, not only in Dharamsala, but throughout India and the developing world," explained Seth Shaffer, Executive Director of Harmony Through Education.

"We already have a waiting list at the Dharamsala School and are working hard to ensure we can accommodate of all the special needs students in the area in the near future." The HTE Dharamsala School will teach the students both vocational and life skills. HTEs goal is to develop the students' abilities until they are self sufficient and can contribute to their family and community. HTE anticipates serving approximately 100 students in two years, and eventually serving approximately 300 children and families. HTE has hired three full time staff, including a speech therapist, special educator, and computer teacher, all specifically trained to work with special needs children.

The HTE team creates individualized education plans (IEPs) for each child. HTE also is forming relationships with local medical doctors, dentists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to enhance its services to the students and their families and to monitor student progress. HTE is an international NGO registered as a US tax exempt non-profit organization with headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland. HTEs ultimate objective is to raise capital to fund the operation of schools around the world for mentally and/or physically challenged children in rural, impoverished communities, who don't have access to formal education. HTE was founded in 2006 by then 25-year old, Shaffer.

Shaffer was managing a small music production company in New York City, when he decided to explore solutions for the needs of developing countries. He volunteered for two months with a local NGO, Cross-Cultural Solutions, to work with special needs children in Dharamsala, India, where he observed that the resources available for these children were severely limited and professional instructors almost non-existent.

Shaffer stayed on in India for six month months to lay the foundation for Harmony Through Education and soon returned to the United States where he formed HTE, secured its non-profit status and began raising funds for a school, which he called Project Dharamsala. Sixteen months and several fundraisers later, Shaffer and the rest of the HTE board members/volunteers raised in excess of $60,000 to open its first school in Dharamsala.

Dalai Lama completes 12 day France visit

The Tibetan spirtual guru Dalai Lama successfully wrapped up a twelve-day visit to France on Friday by inaugurating a temple at Sogyal Rinpoche's Buddhist center in Lerab-Ling, in the southern town of Roqueredonde.

France's Foreign Minister, Bernhard Kouchner, first lady, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, French human rights minister, Rama Yade, were also at the consecration ceremony, which was attended by about 2,000 people.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama led a procession of monks in orange and red, chanting and playing long trumpets, around the temple, accompanied by Mrs Bruni-Sarkozy. His Holiness presented the pair with long white scarves, a Tibetan gesture of hospitality and respect, which they wore as they watched their host prostrate himself before a statue of the Buddha.

The red and gold Lerab Ling is one of the biggest Tibetan Buddhist temples in the West. It houses a 23-foot (7 metre) high golden statue of the Buddha and many holy relics and scriptures. Another golden Buddha sits in the middle of a lake just outside. Hundreds of students of Buddhism braved heavy rain to visit the site, which was decorated with multi-coloured Tibetan prayer flags. They sheltered under orange umbrellas on the grass.

In his address, His Holiness called for harmony between different religious traditions and for respect for the environment.

"We have the responsibility to take care of this planet," His Holiness said. "We must extend love to all creatures, trees and beautiful things."

Ms. Sarkozy and Mr. Kouchner talked privately with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and his interpreter later briefed reporters on some of his comments, The New York Times reported.

The only way China can "regain its respectability in the international community" is to "march towards democracy," His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, according to Ricard, who attended the meeting.

His Holiness said that China had increased repression of Tibetans during the Olympic Games in Beijing, and he urged China to "march toward democracy."

Kouchner, who made no public comment except to say His Holiness the Dalai Lama was "always welcome in France."

His Holiness the Dalai Lama's French visit was devoted to religious engagements including a six-day teaching series and consecration of Buddhist temples.

Tibetans discuss the future course of their struggle in Dharamsala

Dalai Lama to lead post-Olympic global fast

The Dalai Lama will lead a global fast after the Beijing Olympics end next week to highlight the "Tibetan cause," the Tibetan government-in-exile said Friday.

The announcement came after the Tibetan leader met French first lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy during his 12-day tour of France, where the spiritual leader prodded China to "march towards democracy."Chimme Choekyapa, a spokesman for the Dalai Lama, said the 73-year-old monk would lead the "symbolic 12-hour fast" by his followers worldwide on August 31.

Samdhong Rinpoche, prime minister in the Tibetan government-in-exile which is based in this northern Indian town, said the fast would focus attention on Tibet.

"We consider this an extremely important non-violent action taken by Tibetans under the leadership of the Dalai Lama in a very critical period for Tibet, particularly the post-Olympic period," Rinpoche said.

"It will be one of the most important non-violent campaigns... to get support from the world community for world peace and fight against oppression in the world in general and particularly in Tibet," the Tibetan administration said.

The Dalai Lama told French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner the only way China can "regain its respectability in the international community" was by engaging in a "march towards democracy."

China accuses the Dalai Lama of seeking independence for Tibet and of fomenting unrest to sabotage the Olympic Games, which end Sunday.

The monk insists he wants autonomy and religious freedom for Tibet - not independence.

US non-profit opens first special needs school in Dharamsala

Rain ! Rain ! And Rain ! in Dharamsala.Dharamsala had the an average maximum rain in the recent past.This Monsoon do not miss your Umbrella

Tibetans-in-exile here took out a candlelight vigil last evening as a part of their protest against China's 'illegal' occupation of their homeland.

Chanting prayers and holding candles, they took three rounds of the town before finally assembling in the main Buddhist temple. The protesters got support from a French national.With Olympics now on in Beijing, Tibetans are trying to highlight their freedom movement. China has controlled Tibet since People's Liberation Army troops marched into the region in 1950 and Beijing considers Tibet as an integral part of its territory. Tibetans are trying to reinvigorate their freedom movement and protest against what they see as China's illegal occupation of their homeland.

Tibetan activist told not to leave Dharamsala

A notice has been sent by the Himachal Pradesh police to Tibetan activist Tenzin Tsundue, asking him not to leave this town which is the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile, an official said Wednesday.

‘Tsundue has been directed under section 3 of the Foreigners Act not to leave the territorial jurisdiction of Dharamsala,’ Kangra’s Superintendent of Police Atul Kumar Fulzele told IANS Wednesday.

Tsundue was released from the Mandi jail Monday night after spending nine days in police custody.

He was arrested for his alleged attempt to enter Tibet to protest against Chinese rule.

Tibetans to hold Worldwide Mass Prayer, Fasting on 30 August

To bring relieve to all those Tibetans who are enduring hardship under Chinese oppression and enhance the collective merits of Tibetan and Chinese people, the Tibetan Solidarity Committee will organise a worldwide day-long fasting and a prayer congregation on 30 August.

The movement aims to "earnestly remind and appeal to all the human beings to effectively counter the acts of oppression, violence and injustice with non-violent and peaceful means, borne out of compassion and loving kindness to our oppressor."

The detail program was announced at a press conference presided over by Chairman Karma Chophel this morning here at Lhakpa Tsering hall of the Department of Information and International.

Mr Tsultrim Tenzin, member of the Tibetan solidarity committee was also present at the conference.

The Tibetan Solidarity Committee - constituted by the Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile - aims to plan, inform, co-ordinate and lead the movement in exile in unity under the policy of Middle-Way Approach of the Central Tibetan Administration to resolve the present crisis in Tibet

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