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MARCH 1959

( This is a narrative of what happenned during the 1959 uprising in Lhasa Tibet, the characters are fictionalized, however most of the events and incidents leading up to the final episode have truly occurred. Overall, its just my take on things that might have happened during that day)

Every year, Tibetans around the world gather on the day of 10th march. A day marked ‘red’ with the blood of our thousands of innocent countrymen, who were brutally massacred by the imperialist Chinese during the 1959 revolution at Lhasa. Millions died, not for greed, not for money and not for individual interests. They died for their country; they sacrificed their lives for their leader. And it is a pity to see that our enthusiasm and fervour for regaining our Nation’s Independence and for bringing to justice the death of millions of fellow Tibetans, has become nothing more than a one day in a year show of “Preposterous Profanity”. With these words, I dedicate the following story to those forgotten heroes of our forbidden country with some hope that our generation understands the value of this day of 10th march and strives for the ‘just’ in our cause, not for one day, but for each day of our life till we redeem our Independence.


First week of March 1959:

The whole town is in a busy bustle of thousands of pilgrims who had come to celebrate “Losar”(Tibetan New Year) and the Monlam religious celebrations. Bharkhor(The only big market in Lhasa) is a bit more crowded than what it usually remains throughout the year. Everywhere there is singing and dancing, purchasing of things, religious celebrations etc. All in all, the whole town is in gaiety and enjoyment. Nobody ever new at that time, that this is the “New year” which will change the course of Tibetan History to a completely new direction.
But, the scene was completely different in the cabinet house of the ‘Potala Palace’. The Kashag(the cabinet) had just received an invitation from the Chinese, for His Holiness The Dalai Lama to attend a Chinese opera held in the Chinese military compound in Lhasa on the 8th March. With a set condition that none of his 25 strong men ceremonial bodyguards were to accompany him. With growing Chinese interference in Tibet’s sovereignty and a possible threat of an assault on His Holiness, this invitation was viewed more as a sinister plot than mere courtesy. Things started to get hotter, when the rumours about the Chinese intentions started spreading in the town. The whole previous scenario of celebrations and enjoyment, turned into serious discussions about the “ Chinese Invitation to His Holiness”. It was believed that the Chinese were planning to abduct His holiness and take him to China. This belief was further strengthened by the sightings of three planes landing on the Damshang airport in the outskirts of Lhasa. The general public was becoming more and more restless, and anti Chinese slogans and complaints to the kashag was already starting to come up. Nobody knew, what was going to happen and when?

In a small Inn near Bharkhor(the city market)

“ What if the Chinese attack the Potala and abduct His holiness?” said Kunchon Sonam, a stoic and gaunt Khampa landing his fist on the table with a loud noise. “ Well the Chinese are definitely looking suspicious!” remarked Samdup, a fellow young man from Amdo.
“ I think we should start doing some thing than just keep on discussing about all this”. Observed lodoe, a teen from U-tsang. “ yes, definitely and what do u suggest?’’asked Thupten with anxiety in his eyes. All of them were silent for a few minutes, brooding over the complete situation and trying to figure out a way to save their Nation’s leader, whose plight was evidently in danger.

“A Revolution!! A Revolution!!” Said Kunchok arduously. “Yes! Indeed we need a Revolution, a strong Revolution to shake off the Chinese form their belief that they could easily fool us into anything.” Thus the four of them decided to start of a revoution in Lhasa to confront the evil designs of the Communist Chinese. Each one of them decided to spread in different direction of the Lhasa city and gather as much volunteer as possible for protecting His Holiness and his abode “ The Potala palace” and “ The Norbulinka.” They started going around in streets and houses throughout lhasa asking every man form young to old to give them their hands for this noble cause. Of course, not a single Tibetan was unwilling to sacrifice his life for his leader and country.

After the first week of march:

With each passing day, the atmosphere in Lhasa was becoming more and more tensed. His holiness The Dalai Lama’s denial to attend the Opera on 8th but his willing ness to attend on the 10th March had caused much resentment in the Chinese quarters. Besides, the denial by the Kashag to accept the condition of not sending the ceremonial body guards with The Dalai Lama, further estranged the Chinese. Meanwhile, Kunchok and his friends were frequently addressing gatherings and were repudiating the 17 point agreement and the Chinese invitation. Anti Chinese pamphlets were distributed throughout the city of Lhasa and people were requested to gather around “ The Potala” and “ The Norbulinka” to prevent any forceful Chinese intrusion in the “Divine Abode”.
The Chinese too were no more unaware about the general feeling of the public and were threatening “ The Kasahg” of forceful use of violence if they do not comply with the Chinese terms.

10th March 1959:

Kunchok and his friends were able to gather thousands of Tibetans around “ The Potala” and “ The Norbulinka”. By now, the situation was no more in the hands of the Kashag. The general public had surrounded the palace form everywhere and it was impossible that they would allow His Holiness to attend the fixed plot by the Chinese.
With thousands of Tibetan shouting anti Chinese slogans and praying for The Dalai Lama’s safety,the whole Lhasa was reverberating with the roar of Khampas and other Tibetans alike. Kunchok was at the head of the crowd keeping the morale of the public high. The possibility of confrontation with the Chinese troops who were laced with machine guns, mortars and shells was imminent. What Tibetans at that time had as a weapon, was their belief in their country’s freedom and the faith they had in the “just” of their cause. Just like Kunchok and his friends, thousands of Tibetans, men, women, youngsters, elder ones and even children did not hesitate to come forward and stand firm to protect their leader. Things by now have completely gone out of the administration’s hand and what was evidently going to come up was a serious confrontation with the Chinese military and their machines of killing, destruction and wrath.

10th to 17th March:

“ I wonder what the Chinese are planning to do. Their silence for the past few days is making me more worried than their constant angry exchanges with our local leaders”. Said Kunchok. He was moving restlessly to and fro, while his friends Samdup, Thupten and Lodoe came to give him hourly information about what was happening in different parts around “ The Potala” and “ The Norbulinka”.
“ Just this morning a Chinese patrol tried to force its way into “ The Norbulinka”, but peole lied down in front of the military jeeps and didn’t budge slightly form their ground in front of “ The Norbulinka Palace”. The Chinese were about to use arms but they foresaw that they will be easily outnumbered, so they left, cursing and saying that they will come back”. Informed Thupten, assigned for the Norbulinka front.
“ Yes, they tried the same thing form the back of the Potala, but didn’t succeed.” Added samdup.
“ I think, something terrible is going to happen soon. I am wondering what is being planned inside “ the Norbulinka”, for the people are asking what “ The Kashag” has done for His Holiness’ safety. Lodoe said.
“ I am sure, something must be sorted out for evacuating His Holiness form danger’s path, but nevertheless our job is to stop the Chinese form reaching our leader, as long as there is breath in every Tibetan and as long as our heart beats.” Kunchok said grimly.

At around 4 o clock of the 17th march, there was a thundering sound of two mortar shells being shot in air. People throughout the town started moving hither in thither, shouting anti Chinese slogans. It was later confirmed that the shells landedin a pond near “ the norbulinka”, no body was hurt at that time. With this, the Chinese had made their intentions clear and were preparing for a mass onslaught of innocent Tibetan people, who were trying to save their leader with what, but the only weapon of “Peace” and their impregnable soul encased in their brave bodies. Kunchok and his friends came into action and rushed to their self-assigned positions.

In front of a big gathering of thousands of Tibetans, Kunchok said these inspiring words, “ It seems that the time has come, when our nation and our leader is in dire need of our sacrifices. I believe the time has come for all of us to become immortal in the history of our great nation, the day has come when it will be our blood which will write history and our sacrifice which will prevent our nation’s future. On this day of redemption, I ask all my fellow countrymen, to join hands with me and stand firm on one’s ground and not let the Chinese decide the future of our country. To Tibet we belong, for Tibet we die. Bhod Gyalo!!”
Bhod Gyalo!! Bhod Gyalo!!! Was the reply of the inspired crowd and the sound carried itself to the Chinese quarters where preparation for the attack was decided.

Inside the Norbulinka:

Now that the Chinese had made their intentions clear, it was imperative that his holiness must be evacuated and rescued to a safer place. Finally, it was decided that “India” is the safest and the best place at present for refuge. With divine help from the Nechung Oracle, the safest time and route for the exodus was sorted out. It was on the 18th of March, 1959 that this journey, which would take Tibet’s history to a completely different turn, was scheduled.
Dressed in a lay man’s dress, our leader and the heart of our country, The Dalai Lama, safely came out through Norbulinka” and started for his long journey towards the Indian border. The Chinese weren’t yet aware about the exodus, for they would have tried their best, not to loose the only card they had in their hands for completely legalizing the annexation of Tibet.

20th March 1959:

At 2 o clock in the morning, the Chinese opened firing. Shells were being shot everywhere, gun fires, grenades and machine guns were thundering all around, without discriminating their targets. Children, women and hundred of old people became victims.
It all started form “ The Norbulinka”, a huge army unit took its position near the summer palace and without any warnings started to burst out fire form theor weapons of death. Surprisingly, no body was trying to hide or escape. In fact every Tibetan assembled there, started to face death with courage and a sense of duty. Slogans like “ Bhod Gyalo” (Hail Tibet) were reverberating above the sounds of those deadly weapons Chinese were using. Monks, laymen, women, children were falling down, with bullets in front of their bodies and not behind. Many were trying to get up again and stop the Chinese as long as they could.
Thupten and Lodoe, like many other Tibetan heroes died bravely, with the Tibetan national flag in their hands and these final words on their lips “ Bhod Gyalo!!”

The brutal massacre had just started and move to other places too. The Jokhang, Chakpori Medicle school, nearby shol village all became the victims of Chinese outrage. Such was the scene at Lhasa, which only the victims of Nazi killings could understand. All over the city of Lhasa, dead bodies of innocent Tibetans were scattered, as if they meant nothing for the trudging PLA forces marching ahead towards “ The Potala”.

Kunchok was aware of what was happening all around and so did the thousands of Tibetans gathered around the potala knew. Still, they didn’t run away and bring shame to their country. Infact, with Kunchok’s lead people started to sing the “ The Tibetan National Anthem”. The more nearer the Chinese army came and the more fiercer their guns bursted, the louder the National anthem was sung. Monks, nuns, men and women alike started falling down, as if they were mere “ practice Targets” for the Chinese troops. Every last breath added to the ever-growing sound, which our national anthem created.
The Chinese were moving swiftly towards the palace, removing every alive Tibetan with the talent of a butcher. When they reached near kunchok, who was still singing the national anthem with stacks of his dead fellow countrymen around. The Chinese halted a bit, dumbstruck and astonished with the courage they saw in his eyes. The Anthem was complete and with one alst attempt, Kunchok started to run towards the Chinese troops, shouting “ Bhod Gyalo!” Bhod Gyalo!!!!
The general ordered fire, but the fingers of awestruck Chinese troops weren’t able to press the trigger. The sight of one single man, with his Nation’s Flag in his hands and with the Great palace of Potala as the backdrop, was enchanting enough to stop any mortal man form action. Finally, the general took out his own gun and shot at the unarmed and peaceful young Tibetan, with every bullet his gun had. Thus, Kunchok became immortal, like those thousands of Tibetans who sacrificed their everything for their nation, their leader and for the “ JUST” in their cause. I salute them all!!!!! Bhod Gyalo!!!!
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Meeting Wang Lixiong

This weekend went superbly well. I had the opportunity of meeting one of the foremost Chinese writer and political commentator on Tibet, Wang Lixiong.

We were able to invite him for a dinner and an informal meeting. It was at Lobsang Wangyal's studio. Lobsang was kind enough to be the host for the gathering. Our goal for the meeting was actually different then many other similar meetings.

The idea was to tell him more about exile then to ask him about China or Tibet. We wanted to make him familiar with the realities in exile.

Lobsang Wangyal was kind enough to present various aspects of exile life through different examples. Wang Lixiong seemed extremely interested in "Miss Tibet Pageant" and "Tibetan Olympics". He expressed his happiness in seeing how different individuals are trying to do new things.

We had earlier heard rumours that some Tibetan guy banged his fist on the table and left the meeting on one such meeting with Wang Lixiong in Dharamsala. I thought it was just a rumour, but we came to know that it actually happened. Whatever, this guy's reasons were, I think, it was not a nice thing to do. His Holiness the Dalai lama has always stressed upon the need for dialogue with common Chinese people. Banging our fists on the table would only harm this cause. It made me sad, as well as embarrassed. Therefore, we made sure that we present to him a positive side of the Tibetan people and its culture. Making sure that we are not in anyway disrespectful or unreasonable.

I had read a bit about his youth. One of the things I read was that he travelled along the Yangtze river during his youth and came across many Tibetan territories. His interest grew in Tibet after this and then he started to take a keen eye on all issues pertaining to Tibet. I asked him, " As a youth, who studied mechanical engineering, how come you took interest in politics, was it because of the period of time you were in, what was teh motivation to travel along Yangtze river?"

" I studied engineering, but it was more of the party's choice then mine. In those days, we didnt choose what to study. Still, the scientific principles of reasoning and logic, proved very useful to me throughout my life."

He continued," In ancient chinese lore, literature, history, mythology; the role of rivers in bringing change, new ideas, civilisations had always been very prominent. Thus, my motivation to travel along Yangtze, to find something new and to find myself. As I travelled along the river, I discovered a totally different culture when i came across tibetan territories. This grabbed my attention and I became more interested".

I further asked him, " Isn't it difficult to write about Tibet in a way much different from the Chinese government's viewpoint? Don't you get into trouble?"

"Yes one does get into trouble if one is not careful. However, it depends upon how you work and what kind of actions you take and in what manner. The fabric of Chinese authority is much more complicated then, merely looking at it as a ruthless, all pervading system. It has its discrepancies, loopholes and issues."

One of my questions was about Mao Zedong. So far I have read only one book about him and that was Jun Chang's "Mao:The Unknown Story".

I asked Wang Lixiong, " What do you think Mao was like? Was he actually the complete ruthless man with no goodness, as Jun Chang puts in her book or was he different?"

"Different people have different views on Mao, but I think there's always two sides of the coin. I think many of the things that happened during that period were also out of his hands. But still I don't deny many of the bad things that he did".Wang Lixiong

While parting after dinner, He added," Tibetans in Tibet and Tibetans in exile, no matter under what circumstances they have grown, they still display many of the same essential Tibetan qualities. I firmly believe that you will feel at home, when you come back to Tibet."

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has reiterated many times upon the need for more contacts between the Chinese people and the Tibetans. He had over the years expressed his faith in the Chinese people more then his faith in Chinese government.

Most of us are well aware as to how much Chinese language is important these days. This meeting has further made me understand that it is significant for any Tibetan to learn Chinese, if at all we want to talk to Chinese people. Even with two translators present, I felt if only I could speak Chinese, i would have been more articulate and expressive in what I was trying to say.

I hope the CTA(Central Tibetan administration) realises this and starts teaching Chinese at all the Tibetan schools. I think TCV(Tibetan Children's Village) can take an initiative in this direction since it is an autonomous school with lesser bureaucratic hurdles. There are a few steps being taken in this direction, but i have been hearing about it since 5 years back but so far nothing has come to the fore front. We must hurry.

Whatever his beliefs are? Wang Lixiong seemed to be a reasonable man, with a good understanding of both the Tibetan and the Chinese side of the story. And such meetings should not be affected by what anyone's personal views are. Tibetans must always take a positive role whenever such an opportunity arrives. I gave the man respect, listened to him, expressed my views and we parted cordially.

To read more about Wang Lixiong go here.

To read one of his write ups translated in English, titled, "Road Map of Tibet Independence" go here.



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Dalai Lama For Tibetan Youth

In the history of revolution and struggle for freedom, the role of youth has always been prominent. Youth and change are two words that always go along. Such is the power of youth, of initiative and of the desire to move forward.

Youth movement saw its emergence in various forms throughout history and made enormous changes in how we look at history now.

Movements like Hippies, Punks, SNCC, SDS, American Youth Congress, Communist Youth and even Hitler Youth, played significant roles in the past. You can click on the links to read more about these youth movements.

Having a leader of the stature of the Dalai Lama, with a wisdom beyond doubt and a character above par, is an enormous responsibility.

Movements in history have witnessed how leaders in different periods of time realised the importance the power of youth and channeled it in different ways. It is high time, that His Holiness reaches out to the Tibetan Youth in a more extensive and intensive manner.

A straight one-on-one dialogue with the Dalai lama for the Tibetan youths must be organised where all kinds of views can be put forward and not just some censored questions. It is of utmost importance, that the actual voice of youth and not interpreted or mediated views, reach the Dalai Lama. Of course, his holiness is an extremely busy persona, and yet one cannot deny how significant it is for him to have a straight discussion with the Tibetan Youth. Afterall he is the leader of Tibetan people and the fate of Tibet lies in the hands of the future generation.

As a youth I feel it is the need of the hour that the Tibetan youths get an actual chance of dialogue with His Holiness.

He is a leader and a persona in the Tibetan History unlike ever before. Tibetan youths I am sure will be more than eager to have a dialogue with him. Such a gathering should not end up being a short sermon of religious teachings but rather become a platform of discussion. Many Tibetan youths, including myself, have so much to express, so much to tell, so much to thank him for.

An annual seven day consortium of youth representatives from all Universities with Tibetan students, young Tibetans who are working in various cities as well as the exile government must be held.

Such an enclave might in some ways prove to be much more useful and insightful than the so called "Special Meeting" held last year.

I will write to the office of The Dalai Lama requesting such an event to be organised in any near future.

Tibetan youths want His Holiness and we want him to guide us, to listen to us, to advise us and understand us. We want to have a direct contact with him without the usual censoring of questions and the limitations of traditional etiquette protocols.

Once such an enclave materialises, the Tibetan youths will be in a far more better position not only to convey their support for His Holiness, but also to express their views and grievances.
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My Galway Girl

Galway Girl, Steve Earle

Well, I took a stroll on the old long walk
Of a day -i-ay-i-ay
I met a little girl and we stopped to talk
Of a fine soft day -i-ay-i-ay
And I ask you, friend, what's a fella to do
'cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue
And I knew right then I'd be takin' a whirl
'round the salthill prom with a galway girl

We were halfway there when the rain came down
Of a day -i-ay-i-ay
And she asked me up to her flat downtown
Of a fine soft day -i-ay-i-ay
And I ask you, friend, what's a fella to do
'cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue
So I took her hand and I gave her a twirl
And I lost my heart to a galway girl

When I woke up I was all alone
With a broken heart and a ticket home
And I ask you now, tell me what would you do
If her hair was black and her eyes were blue
I've traveled around I've been all over this world
Boys I ain't never seen nothin' like a galway girl

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Jeremy Brett's Portrayal of Sherlock Holmes

To Sherlock fans Jeremy Brett represented the quintessential representation of a character that has dominated the literature of detective stories. His perfect adoption of the role, from mannerisms to the intensity of Sherlock's character, leaves an unforgettable impression on those who watch him act.

I was a Sherlockian way back from my Junior school. Having read all of Sir Conan Doyle's stories over and over again, Sherlock Holmes is one such character that has seeped into my consciousness to a great extent.

To see Jeremy Brett portray this mammoth of a character was amazing.Its surprising that the image of Holmes I had built in my mind, came all alive when i watched the first episode "A Scandal in Bohemia", of the renowned series run by Granada Television. Then on I have always craved for more of Jeremy Brett playing holmes. What further fascinated me, was how the character of Sherlock Holmes affected the later life of this method actor. How he became obsessed and aloof like Holmes. And finally his sad demise due to manic depression. How a fictional character could affect a living person to such an extent is beyond my imagination.

I pay my tribute to this great actor. His role as Sherlock Holmes will forever remain imbibed in my memory of the legendary sleuth.

The best ever portrayal of Sherlock Holmes by british actor Jeremy Brett. To know more about Sherlock Holmes click here.

To learn more about Jeremy Brett go here.


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No Quick Fixes For Tibet

We Tibetans have been for so long and are still insufferably diseased from a condition of "Extreme Optimism". Not that Optimism to any extent is a bad thing, but in our case, it seems to have become an excuse for passivity and irrational complacency.


Perhaps this optimism in our struggle to return back soon to our homeland is more or less the reflection of the unflinching faith we have in His Holiness the Dalai lama. And yet we fail to see that even his optimism for the fate of Tibet is balanced by actions which are futuristic and visionary. Despite the majority of Tibetan's belief even right after 1959, that we will soon return back, The Dalai Lama had the vision to start working on establishing schools, settlements, monasteries and a functioning government in exile, just in case.

What is sad now, is the fact that majority of the Tibetans in exile are still illusioned with the same idea that we will soon go back to Tibet. What is sadder, is another fact that many of the policies initiated by the exile government, in terms of education, employment, governance etc are all centred around this very idea of temporary stay in India. And this is doing some serious, serious damage.

Any policy followed to resolve the issue of Tibet, must not just be optimistics, promising and pretty at face but should also be balanced by checks that foresee even the worst of the scenarios when it comes to failures.The plain fact I am implying here is that we must have a back up plan.

What must seep into the hearts and minds of our policy makers, is the plain realisation of how China is becoming stronger day by day, how it is accumulating resources all across the globe, how the reaches of its soft power overwhelm even a nation as great as the United states and how it has successfully gained an edge in the the geopolitics of nations. Acceptance of this fact, should be sufficient enough to make them realise that any solution for Tibet if ever happens in the nearby future, will be on the terms of the Chinese. Just as plain and as simple as that. Now, this doesn't mean that we should give up and surrender our efforts in achieving our goals that run almost contrary to what the Chinese want. All it means, is to brace ourseleves for a longer period of struggle ahead, things change with time of course, but things don't change at a pace we Tibetans expect it to.

The smarter thing to do, the wiser thing to do and the most pragmatic thing to do, is to prepare ourselves for the coming future.

At the end of last year's Special Meeting, one of the remarks of His Holiness was the following," The beginning 20 years in exile, we all Tibetans were the same, had the same problems, dwelt and struggled in the same condition and improved our lives. For the last 30 years, i have seen a regression in all aspects of our exile life, there had been a lot of carelessness. If for the coming 20 years we still continue this way, then i don't see any hope for us." These were his clear words, surprisingly edited in many of the Tibetan news media. You can view the video of this remark below (listen carefully to the beginning of the speech).


What is clear here is the fact that even His Holiness is not exactly satisfied with what we have done and we are doing. Therefore, it is imperative that we must have a recourse that not only takes the cause of Tibet ahead but at the same time sustains it.

We have some serious issues on our hands which very few people seem to take notice of.

What after the Dalai lama?

Even though it is considered inauspicious to discuss about the death of the Dalai Lama while he is still present, yet we must break out of these traditional way of thinking that has shackled, otherwise many a great ideas.

I am sure that even His Holiness will want the Tibetans and policy makers to always think in a pragmatic, practical and prudent manner.

The implications of a situation where there is no Dalai Lama is extensive and precariously serious. More so for people who actually understand the mechanics of social fabric in exile. How dependent even the exile government is on His Holiness. How small things as permissions and licenses for all sorts of business TIbetans do will be affected? How the outlook of the Indian government and its current policy on dealing with Tibetan exiles will change when there is no Dalai Lama? All this and many other aspects of exile life will be deeply affected.

Of course then there is the whole bigger question of the issue of Tibet, the dialogue with Chinese and so on. How the interest of the world will change when there is no Dalai Lama? What will such a situation do to all those interested in the fate of Tibet? These are some really serious questions.

My projections might be just that, and yet its something that all my sense of reasoning tells me to be inevitable and imminent.Under such circumstances, why not then there are efforts in preparing the grounds for a future exile that still remains productive and improvises on the premises already established by His Holiness. We must start thinking for ourselves and shoulder many of the responsibilities of The Dalai Lama, it is our solemn duty and we owe it to His Holiness.

The Way Ahead

All I am trying to say here is that it is highly improbable that a solution for Tibet will be achieved in the nearby future. And I hope we have stopped believing in miracles the day Chinese forces started shelling the holy walls of the Potala.

What we must do now, is as simple as an old english proverb which i often repeat. "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst."

Now I must congratulate myself and fellow Tibetans in having deeply imbibed in us the quality of Hope, of Optimism. But now, its also the time to set ourselves ready and well prepared for the coming years in future.

The fate of Tibetans in exile will lie in the hands of the Tibetan government in exile once His Holiness is not there. The future of Tibetans in exile will be decided by the cumulative policies followed and implemented by the Tibetan government in exile. Under such distinct reality, it is of utmost importance that not just the people at the helm of leading the Tibetan government in exile, but also the structure in which it functions, is top notch and with least defects.

The need of a leader who will be able to shoulder the responsibilties of His Holiness in the most efficient manner is significant. You can read about it in my piece "here".

The structural changes, for example, reforms in the current electoral system in exile is a must for a more relevent future. Details of which come across in this piece"here".

It will be only with our resourcefulness and ingenuity of thought and actions, that the community of Tibetans in exile will not just thrive in numbers, but also flourish and become stronger and more effective. Our integration into the global community at every level is a must. Thats how the Jews did it, and I see no reason why Tibetans can't do that.

The only thing that will prompt us into this direction, is the realisation that, there will be "No Quick Fixes For Tibet"

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Next Prime Minister For Tibet:2011 Elections

50 years have passed since Tibetans have been driven out of their own land and 50 years have passed since they have established a life in exile. The current geopolitics of the world clearly show that it will probably be another 50 years or more before they could actually hope to leave this perceived makeshift place of refuge in India.

Over the years, His Holiness the Dalai lama has marvelously shouldered the responsibility of a whole nation. Not only did he sustain and strengthen the cause of a nation, but has also been instrumental in establishing and steering the future course of Tibet in a proper direction.His dedication and efforts in keeping alive the cause of and its people needs no questioning and will always remain above par. However, we must not forget that all his efforts whether its establishing a working government in exile, a template of democratic parliament and the election of a Prime Minister by direct vote of Tibetans in exile has been directed at one supreme goal, and that goal is making the Tibetan Movement "A movement of common Tibetans" and not just an individual.

What becomes essential now, is not only to acknowledge this goal of His Holiness but to actually work towards fulfilling his wishes.

The Kalon Tripa(Prime Minister) elections of 2011 is one such duty, that we need to complete with full responsibility.

This election should not just end up being about electing an administrator to run the day to day activities of the exile government, but should be more about electing a persona who will not only share and shoulder the responsibilites of His Holiness, but who is also able to steer the course of future Tibet on his own too.

What After The Dalai Lama?

Personally, it is my opinion that the election of Kalon Tripa 2011 should also become a center point of discussion about a strategy post the Dalai Lama.The new Kalon Tripa's responsibilities should not just end at overlooking the exile administration. It has to be made sure that whoever is elected as the next Kalon Tripa has the vision as well as the ability to represent the cause of Tibet at the global stage.

What should ideally happen this time, should be the election of a Prime Minister who is able to come out of the shadow of His Holiness. A person who is able to take charge in the absence of The Dalai lama. A prime minister who is endorsed with full vigour and backed with enthusiasm by even His Holiness. Only then, can a new face for the cause of Tibet become tangible.

Breaking the Cycle; A global face:
An amalgam of religion and politics is supposed to form the core ideology behind the Tibetan form of governance. Has it been useful for the cause of Tibet? Yes. Has it been able to realise a solution for the issue of Tibet? No.

Therefore, in times of such rapid globalisation and intertwined structure of geopolitics, Tibetans need more than a religious figure balancing religion and politics. What is need of the hour is a face and a mind that will make the issue of Tibet relevant in the coming years? We don't know how exactly the impending economic crisis will shape the future of the world. Many say, China will emerge far stronger and influential through this current crisis.

If that were to be true then what strategy do Tibetans have, to tackle such an imminent scenario. A shift in the world view, that the cause of Tibet is more about millions of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, rather than just about Buddhism or Peace, is the need of the hour.

Now a common Tibetan, with a modern face, backed and guided by His Holiness, and elected by Tibetan people will surely be able to infuse, a new flow of energy into the whole course of finding a plausible solution for Tibet. Thus, it is most essential that this time around we bring a new face, with a new vision, and an understanding of the realities of today's world at the forefront of running our struggle.

Role of Youth:
This is undenying that the role of youth, like any other country or society, is also of great significance for the future of Tibet.

Therefore, unlike previous occasions when we had fewer choices of leaders to choose, this time around, i believe there will be more names on the nomination list. Thus, it becomes far more important for all youths alike to take an interest and express our mandate in the most lucid manner by casting our ballot for the right candidate.

The American presidential elections saw a surge in participation, when it came to youths ballot this time around. This in many way paved the way for the election of a younger and more dynamic leader for the whole American nation.

It is imperative for the Tibetan youths too, to understand the need for a younger,modern and a dyanamic face for the Tibetan cause than ever before.

We must turn out in good numbers this time around and prevent any conservative and leftist voices in our society to come at the top.

Hearsay(a rumour), that I feel should not materialise:

I have been hearing about talks in a few quarters of the Tibetan assembly members that many are looking for a possibility of an ammendment in the Tibetan charter,so that Prof.Samdhong Rinpoche is able to run for a third term at the office.

If this is true, then such an events will be totally against the wishes of His Holiness, who more than once has indicated that a new and young leadership at helm is what we need right now.

I would even go at lengths to compare it with the referendum that Hugo Chavez(president of Venezuela conducted so that he could run for another term. The difference would be that , such an action would be initiated by the elected representatives at the Tibetan assembly and not Samdhong Rinpoche. Thus, taking us a step back in our movement, no matter what excuse they have on their platters.

A Few Tips To The Tibetan Election Commission:
The coming elections for the Kalon Tripa is significant to an extent that none of us could even think of ignoring the far reaching implications it could bring for Tibetans in exile.

Therefore, the need for an overwhelming number of votes cast is paramount. It is most important that the Tibetans, young and old, express their mandate in an overwhelming manner.

My request to the election commission this time would be to increase the number of polling stations. Especially, as a youth, it is essential that there are polling stations at every major cities where considerable number of Tibetan students reside. And by considerable as per the standards of Tibetan population, I would say even 50 students is quite considerable.

So, whatever are the rules governing the allotment of polling stations. I hope that this time time around there are more places for a young Tibetan to establish his mandate by voting, who otherwise studying at a college, or working at a city, with constraints of time and reach ability, has been on many occasions deprived of access to a nearby polling station.

A change in the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile and its elections:

A serious and drastic change is required in the way our legislative members are elected. Based on a regional electoral system initially formulated to represent the integrity of Tibet, in its three provinces and five religious sects, the current electoral system has run out of its relevance in the context of current challenges facing the exile society as well as the present realities of Tibet under china.

Such a system must now either give way to or accomodate, a more constituency based electoral system where popularity of candidates play a bigger role than technicalities of the current regional based( meaning regions in Tibet) electoral system.

My suggestion would be to start having two houses in the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile. One that is based on the current electoral system responsible for matters related with national politics, foreign affairs etc.And another house that solely focuses on the challenges of exile society. Whether its education, health, settlements, employment etc. only leaders from various regions in India where exile communities reside will be in a position to understand and tackle these problems effectively.

Currently there are over 10 legislative members who stand for elections under the current electoral system from just Dharamsala. That is almost 20% of legislative members are from Dharamsala, while the Tibetan population here might even not be 5% of the exile diaspora. Such unbalanced and obsolete design of electoral system must either be abandoned or changed, so that newer challenges are dealt in a more effective manner.

Efficient, effective and evolutionary governance of the exile set up:
It is most critical that the current set up of Tibetan refugees in exile, established after much hardships of the Dalai lama, is maintained and flourished.

The new Kalon Tripa(Prime Minister) must be in touch with today's realities and have the knowledge and the understanding of the modern concepts and breakthoroughs in the science of governance. He should also be aware of the social challenges and problems the community in exile faces.

Whether its education, Health, Planning and International relations, a person who could understand the intricasies and the technicalities of all these aspects, in a modern, up to date and current context of globalisation should be at the helm of leading the Tibetan government in exile.

Traditional thinking and concepts of development must assist the flow of any new strategy of governance, but mostly should remain at the backseat.

Possible nominees for Kalon Tripa 2011:

Lobsang Sangay, Lobsang Nyendak, Tashi Wangdu and Tenzin Namgyal are a few names being thrown here and there these days for nomination to Kalong Tripa 2011 elections. I will be posting their brief biographies soon.

I will be nominating Dr.Lobsang Sangay for Kalon Tripa 2011. I have my reasons, that I will express in my coming posts on this blog. Till then, rise up, its time we do something.


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Second Tibetan Demographic Survey!

My first feelings when I saw the announcement for the second demographic survey was of relief and excitement. Over the years, I had been constantly talking about and nagging around people for the need of such an extensive survey. I tried in many of my write ups, to emphasise on the need for an extensive data on various social variables.

First there was an education survey initiated a couple of months back on the advise of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Which I was very happy to hear about but also very critical to those who didn't think of doing it until His Holiness told them to do so. You can read about it here "Give His Holiness a break, for god's sake".

Anyhow, when I saw the forms for this demographic survey, to be honest, I was quite content. It is perhaps the most extensive survey done in Tibetan exile society. Variables like education, literacy, gender etc. etc. all are given well thought in it. I heard the Indian government helped the Tibetan government to plan such a huge survey. The first demographic survey done in exile around 98 or 99 wasn't that extensive.

What disturbed me was the manner in which this important survey was executed. I saw school children knocking at various people's door and getting the forms filled, especially in Dharamsala. The word was also around that there were many mistakes and repetitions in many of the forms filled in dharamsala. It is sad to know that why there was not much investment done on it to be able to hire professionals to do the job, or at least college graduates? Why was it all rushed up?

I just hope the results of this survey are accurate to a good extent and help our Tibetan government in exile in formulating their various plans.

Though I have doubts about how efficiently and effectively the data of this survey's result will be used in a professional manner when it comes to planning all kinds of social and exile strategies.

My finger's are crossed. And I hope the concerned people really don't screw it up and use the results of this survey in drafting there plans and not just keep it in a pile of files.

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Dharamsala and Its Different Colors

With a desire for a new experience and ample time to spare, I came to Dharamsala. Its a small hill station, a little town sprawled across lush green hills and majestic mountains at the back. Many consider It as one of the most popular tourist haunts in Himachal Pradesh (a small state in India).

Apart from its natural beauty and pleasant weather, Dharamsala is known as the seat of His Holiness the Dalai lama, the Tibetan government in exile and most of the organisations working for Tibet are situated here. Its a small town bursting with energy and enthusiasm. Some people have even called it "Little Lhasa",an assortment of all things Tibetan, its culture, religion, people and everything else.


Being an avid critic and a cynic of many of the aspects of life in exile, it was going to be an adventurous experience for me. I came with an open mind, washed away all my prejudiced opinions, decided to approach all that is in Dharamsala with an unbiased and yet critical viewpoint. What followed was an experience that was both sad, heart wrenching and also hopeful and optimistic. You can say it was a mixed experience, with many things learnt and many un-learnt..hahahha.. My expereince is here for anyone who wants to know something about Dharamsala, other than the obvious things one comes to hear about the place. Read on!!!!!

Dharamsala was one place which i viewed with utmost respect and admiration for one thing that it had, and that was His Holiness the Dalai lama.

Surprisingly, it is the one place I also looked with disdain and annoyance when it came to the workings of various bureaucratic institutions and in still being the seat of the older conservative ideology of Tibet.

It was also a place i believed to be the habitat of many afflicted with "The Kudag Syndrome" ( a perceived manner of behaviour much alike the past aristocratic families of Tibet responsible for much of its past and present problems) still holding on to offices of power, and ultimately, to many outsider's disbelief, striving continuously to take Tibetan Society way back to where it was before His Holiness bestowed upon us the gift of democracy.

This place brought me close to many of the realities of Tibetan Society which somehow I was quite out of touch with.

Individuals Change society single-handedly:

Now this might not be agreeable for many and I was never a follower of this idea. But what I saw in Dharamsala myself, surprisingly proved the above theory absolutely and absolutely correct, especially when it came to the dynamics of the Tibetan Society in exile.

One person I knew and probably the whole world knows now is "Lobsang Wangyal". A deceivingly casual, easy going individual, who, in his pink shirts and tight 70s trousers has taken a huge responsibility of stirring up the Tibetan society from passivity to creative action. Other than the well known, "Miss Tibet","Tibetan Olympics" and many more of his initiatives what was noticeable was his fearless committment towards bringing social change in his own ways.

His website http://lobsangwangyal.com/

What was hateful and annoying to me, was the attitude with which many of the old school Tibetans still shied away from recognising this one man's contribution in paving the way for a contemporary, modern and aware Tibetan exile society.

Another individual who has taken a lot on his shoulders, and perhaps too much, is Tenzin Tsundue. But it seems nothing is too much for this Tiger of a man.

From the cause of Free Tibet, to contemporaray literary awakening initiatives, to social reforms in varied aspects, this one man army has proven his metal.

There are many who still talk narrow, and comment on the right of an individual to do something for one's own country or society. There are still many who misinterpret intentionally, the motivation of this man to shake Tibetan society. To those I say, SHUT THE *U*K UP.

And again recognition for this man's effort comes much more from outside then from the Inside of the old Tibetan society. Youths I am sure support him with his ideas.

This man could assemble more crowd, which is essential sometimes, then man organisations combined. Now is that bad for Tibetans, not at all.

A lone monk for compassion:

This was something I missed. I heard from a friend of mine that there is a monk who is working for the betterment of the under privileged Indians in Dharamsala. His name is Jamyang or Guruji as many call him. I heard his organisation is helping children of these people go to school, he is helping them with their clothes and many other things. This is the organisation's website www.tong-len.org

I really wanted to visit this person, who truly follows what His Holiness teaches in terms of Universal Compassion. And not just uses His Holiness name for one's own ends, but didn't get the time to meet him.


Still A Shangrilla For Many:

Sometime back I met a group of students from america, who had come to Dharamsala to study the life in exile, Tibetan culture, religion etc etc.

What followed next was casual gatherings, two parties and some serious talks. Other then what they learn t from us, there were a few things which were actually enlightening to me.

On being asked, what were there expectations about Tibet and Tibetans before they came and what were the surprises you experienced during you whole journey. The answer more or less was more surprises then expectations met.

This clearly brings into picture, how still the majority of the west, how still the hoarding crowds of foreigners behind Free Tibet banners, view Tibet and Tibetans as a pristine product of an untouched civilisation. This is particularly very dangerous for Tibetans. What I believe is needed for all of us Tibetans is to always present a balanced picture of how we Tibetans in exile are.

Taking advantage of the impressions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on foreign countries, to our own individual benefits is not a good thing for us.

And many people who do this, are still the same people suffering from the old school " Kudag Syndrome".

I told them what I had to tell, what was wrong in our society like any other, and what was still good and unique in being a Tibetan.


Towards the end of my stay in Dharamsala:

This young group of people, many of whom were surprisingly so aware, so conscious of all that was wrong and misleading in Tibetan Socoety was one of the very encouraging experiences of my stay in Dharamsala.

I knew a guy from my school and who was also working in Dharamsala. He has initiated a street cum theatre play titled "I want to be Kalon Tripa" ( which means I want to be the prime minister). It was in its initial stages of scripting while I write this blog, but will probably be on show by the end of this month. A very significant effort, in shaking up the Tibetan youth and making the Tibetan society aware about the importance of the coming 2011 elections.

It was during one of these nights when he had invited me during a planery session for the play. The most essential elements of the dicussion came into light, when we talked about the duties of the tibetan youth in exile life and how it was important that we stir up. What also came out into open was the problems and the technicalities of Tibetan politics that essentially makes it improbable for a popular Tibetan youth to become a member of the parliament and ultimately be involved in actual decision making when it came to passing legislations.

This is mostly resultant of the regional electoral system based on three Tibetan provinces of Tibet. But what i feel is mostly needed, is not only keep the current electoral system but why not let independent candidates representing particular settlements, communities, cities where Tibetan youths are concentrated due to college and work get the chance to stand up in election. This i believe will definitely lead to more newer and well educated faces to come up when it comes to our "Assembly of Tibetan Parliamentary Deputies". Thus leading to more informed legislations taking place and as a result betters policies for the CTA to execute.

Such an effort by a group of young Tibetans in the form of play " I want to be the next Kalon Tripa" that too in Dharamsala, really made my day. Now its the time for those ailing from conservatism and older ideology, to quickly recover from their affliction of "The Kudag Syndrome" and ease the way for Tibetan Youths to come into picture.

I am filled with hope and anticipation for future. I leave Dharamsala with a renewed heart and a motivated self. And when I return, it will be with more tools and weapons of change.

When that time comes, I will be back. :)

( Pictures courtesy of Lobsang Wangyal)

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Comics,Cartoons and Growing up

In the course of life, in its bustling crowds and busy schedules, many of us have forgotten the child inside us. Many of us have absorbed ourselves in defining practicality, and in our search for the significant and orderly, we have forsaken the meaningless and the insignificant. Everything has to have a reason now, a purpose, a value, a return of profits etc. As we grow and reach a stage where we call ourselves adults, all that is symbolic of childhood,of youth,of innocence becomes stereotypically trivial and immature. But is that really necessary for being an adult?

I have crossed the line where i could call myself a child or even a teenager but just short of being called an Old man..hahah!! And yet I have always tried to safeguard and nourish those traits of a child, of youth, of innocence, of marvel and surprise at anything new I see, of pleasure at the most simple things in life and the desire to discover.

One thing out of the many other, that still keeps the child inside me alive, Is my love for cartoons and comics. Now believe me am not a total freak fan of comics, but I do like them and they are among one of the many interests I have.

My liking for cartoons started with "He-man", something that caught my attention as a young child. The battles between "Skelator", arch rival of "He-man", the dual personality of He-man where he is an innocent, scared common man and at the same time has the power to become one of the strongest man in the Universe with a sword that could do magical things. It was a magical time for me. Growing up, Jungle book by Rudyard Kipling was televised as a cartoon series on the Indian national channel. It was wonderful, beautiful and every sunday I would and so like other millions of kids would sit in front of the TV and get absorbed in the story of "Mowgli", the hero of the story. His adventures in the Jungle, his dual with "Sher Khan", his escapades and his romance with a human girl from a village all that just fascinated me. Then of course later came Superman,Spiderman,Batman and other superheroes...hahahha!!

Tom and Jerry needs no mention as this is an one everlasting series that no body can just ignore. I still watch it and somehow still end up laughing at the various stints between these two loveable characters. "Ben 10" is quite fun I realised, as I recently tried a couple of episodes.

The interest in comic books first started from Indian comics.I would gorge dozens and dozens of Hindi comic books and would anxiously wait if there is a continued story in the next edition of a comics book.

"Nagraj","Super Commando Dhruv","Parmanu" etc were all creations that completely blew my mind off. Raj comics was the company behind such great characters and to my surprise, these comic characters are still out there, kicking asses of the bad guys.

"Bankelal","Chacha Chaudhary" etc were creations of Diamond comics and were on the humorous side. I had hundreds and hundreds of these comics. My hindi went over the top by the time I was in my 9th grade, and we were not even taught Hindi anymore at Tibetan school, Its a pity such a beautiful language is less exposed in our schools.

Recently, I had a revival of interest in my child hood superheroes especially "Nagraj" and " Super Commando Dhruv". So I set on to find out what these two characters are upto these days. I discovered I have been pretty behind since I haven't read these two characters for almost 10 years now. Now I am reading them again and believe me it is fun in a strangely soothing way.

Cartoons and comics, in some ways have this power to once again put you back the times when you can easily and completely detach yourself from reality and linger in a world of fantasy and magic and mystery. It was enchanting to me when I was young and believe me, it is proving to be more exciting even now. As i slowly slip out of the company of adults, open my laptop and pretend to work, while instead I would be gorging on the new set of stories of "Nagraj" and "Dhruv" in their new adventures, all in a digital format.

Have I grown up?

Not when I am reading a comic or watching a cartoon. :)
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Behind Barbed Wires

Picture courtesy of www.tenkalden.com

History is full of stories about persecution,genocide and mass murder of people. The reasons behind such events mostly trickled down to the geopolitics of the era, and in many cases ascribed to communal hatred and ideological differences.Regimes driven with a particular ideology have more then often promoted violence to meet their ends.

But that is history. And yet the memories of the past haunt us even now. Whether its the havoc caused by the Nazis, memories of cultural revolution in China for many, the mass murder at Tiannamen square, it all lingers around. Ironically, violence somehow always tends to leave behind unscathed scars.

Contemporary world, despite all its glamour and niceties, still witnesses these acts of violence with a shy face, helpless to do anything. The crisis at Darfur, the suffering in Gaza, the hunger in North korea, and the genocide in Tibet all remain unresolved. Other then the obvious reasons and the technicalities to explain our failure in these matters, what I see is the failure of Humanity . This realisation was very much thrown at my face, unlike before, while I worked for an organisation of former political prisoners from Tibet.

Apart from the obvious cliches of stories pertaining to suffering and hardships,common to the lives of all prisoner's of conscience.There were a few unique and very individual things I came to learn while working with former political prisoners of Tibet.

During an interview with one of the political prisoners, the answer to one question remains etched in my memory. On being asked whether one feels any guilt about having participated in an action that resulted in their imprisonment, every political prisoner i was able to speak had one unequivocal answer. That answer was "Yes".

What lied behind this acceptance of guilt for an action of conscience, revolved more around the realization of the futility of their action's outcomes rather then disdain for those outside Tibet.

"I have practically become a useless man now", "telling stories about the past seems to be the best thing I could do","my health or my intellect doesn't allow me to be able to do something practical,both for myself as well as my society". These were remarks of one of the political prisoners from Tibet. Of course there would be many who might have been made stronger in both will and wit after this experience. And yet many remain broken and disillusioned.

This is the underlying truth behind the failure of all of us responsible and all of us who have a conscience to answer. Many have lost lives and many more forgotten in the obscurity of prisons.

Whatever our actions might have been and whatever we might have done. Yet it is clear that humanity has failed and bowed down to tyranny and money( what seems to be the new age synonym for power).

Behind Barbed Wires lies the woes and cries of so many. For how long will we be deaf.
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Miss Tibet Pageant 2009 from 5-7 June

courtesy- www.tibetsun.com

MCLEOD GANJ, India, 25 March 2009 — Miss Tibet Pageant 2009 will be held from 5-7 June. The finale will be held on the 7th at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Dharamshala.

There will be seven rounds of competitions to be crowned the title and the cash prize of one lakh (100,000) rupees (2,000 USD approx.) for the winner. The second place will receive 50,000 rupees and the third place will receive 25,000 rupees.
Those young Tibetan women interested to participate in the pageant can apply through the online application. The deadline is approaching soon.
The participants will arrive in Mcleod Ganj on 28 May. A week's training will be provided from 29 May to 4 June that will include yoga, stage craft and dance. Orientation on Tibetan history, culture, language and current affairs will also be a part of the training. The participants will visit the Tibetan government-in-exile, schools and other institutions during the excursions.

Swimsuit round will be on the 5th at Asia Health Resorts. Rounds two and three on the 6th - the Speech and the Talent - will be held at TIPA.

The finale on the 7th evening at TIPA will have four rounds - Introduction, Evening gown, Traditional costume and the Interview.

The funds for the pageant has been coming from the director's own pockets over the years. However, Gyalnor Tsewang, a member of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile and a buniessman from Nepal, contributed 50,000 rupees in the last year's pageant. Anybody would like to sponsor or contribute to the pageant may use the PayPal button or contact us.

Tashi Dele! :)

Lobsang Wangyal
Director

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Walk The Talk

( This is something interesting, so I have posted it for readers.)

An article By Thubten Samdup
March 22, 2009

Dharamsala, March 22 -- Four months ago a website launched to facilitate the nomination process for the next Kalon Tripa generated considerable excitement through out the Tibetan diaspora. Despite this initial enthusiasm, Tibetans have taken little to no concrete action with regards to the actual nomination process; no contributors have stepped forward, no candidate names have been submitted.

It begs the question: why?

For the first time in our history we have a parliamentary system and an evolving democratic structure intended to grant representation and freedoms. A representative political system is a tremendous achievement, but it also implies a responsibility to choose our leaders.

Tibetans in diaspora now have a precious opportunity to participate more directly in the democratic process: to choose worthy candidates from among our people to stand for the highest office in the Tibetan government-in-exile - the Office of the Kalon Tripa.

The announcement of the Kalontripa.org website met with a profusion of phone calls and email messages, all declaring an overwhelming support for the project, yet, to date, not a single nomination paper has been submitted. What are we to make of such a discrepancy between the initial verbal support expressed and the inertia that followed? Is it that there are no qualified individuals to stand as candidates in our communities, or are we just being lax, and passive?

As Tibetans in diaspora, we have 'talked the talk' of the perfecting the democratic process, and building our government-in-exile. We must also, now, 'walk the walk'.

The incumbent Kalon Tripa Samdhong Rinpoche?s term ends in August 2011. Why do we fail to exhibit the appropriate motivation or concern to find his successor?

In the last 3 years, we have been sufficiently motivated to hold 14 'long life' prayer services for His Holiness. We all want His Holiness to live long. For this, we must also sensibly see to it that his workload is lightened; affording him some much deserved rest in his later years. The next Kalon Tripa's term in office is likely to prove a crucial transitional period. During this 5-year span, His Holiness will be between 76 and 81 years of age. Mindful of this, let us in addition to offering our most earnest and sincere prayers also apply ourselves to the necessary task that will produce the optimal candidate.

We cannot afford to be lax; nor can we entertain fuzzy beliefs that would leave our democratic development to 'some ill-founded notions of 'fate' intervening for us: hoping unrealistically that ?something good? is going to happen. The next step is clearly that of working as a community to find the Kalon Tripa's successor.

Please treat this matter seriously and discuss it among your friends and in your community meetings. Let us all work together. With some effort we will surely find great candidates to run for the next office of Kalon Tripa; someone to lead us forward after Kalon Tripa Samdhong Rinpoche leaves office in 2011.

Nothing good is going to happen unless we make it happen.

For more info, go to www.kalontripa.org

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