Gyalwang Karmapa Investigation Affects McLeod Ganj By Rebekah Murphy On Thursday 27 January 2011, the Himanchal Pradesh Police raided Gyoto Tantric monastery where the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorjee is temporarily residing. This raid is the result of the arrest of Ashutosh and Sanjay Dutt the day before. They were arrested by Himanchal Pradesh police after recovering Rs. 1 crore in their vehicle. During the raid Rabgay Choesang, also known as Shakti Lama, was arrested in connection to the recovery of foreign currency worth under Rs. 5 crore (USD 1 million). These individuals are being held in violation of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, which replaced the Foreign Exchange Regulatory Act on 1 June 2000. Central Agencies including the Enforcement Directorate, the
Intelligence Bureau, the Research and Analysis Wing and the Income Tax Department are currently conducting investigations into the sources of this money and for what purpose it would be used. The investigation is currently still underway. Many sources, including articles from the Times of India and CNN-IBN, have questioned the presence of Chinese Yuan among the foreign currencies, making unsupported claims that the Gyalwang Karmapa is a Chinese spy due to the presence of Chinese currency in the recovered monies. Chinese Yuan were present among the foreign currencies alongside Japanese Yen, US Dollars, Australian Dollars, Thai Baht, and other foreign currencies. Gyalwang Karmapa’s office stress that the source of the (continued on page 4)
Obama Hosts Hu during US Visit By Gretchen Stiteler On Tuesday, 18 January 2011, Chinese President Hu Jintao was greeted with a ceremonial 21-gun salute upon his arrival for a four-day state visit to the US. President Hu’s itinerary included a private dinner with US President Barack Obama on 18 January; a series of meetings followed by a joint press conference on 19 January; a formal state dinner – the first such ceremony held for a Chinese president in 14 years –the evening of 19 January; meetings with members of the US House and Senate the morning of 20 January; and a trip to President Obama’s hometown of Chicago 20 through 21 January. The summit of the two economic superpowers was much anticipated by the global community especially with regard to China’s human rights record. Hundreds of protestors representing Tibet, Taiwan, Falun Gong, and Uyghurs rallied outside of the White House during President Hu’s visit. As
the two leaders held their scheduled press conference on 19 January, protestors held their own conference outside. President of the World Uyghur Congress Rebiya Kadeer summarized the protestors’ collective belief that “President
Obama can make great change by speaking out on human rights issues. We all believe that Obama will not disappoint the hopes and dreams of millions of people suffering under Chinese rule.” (continued on page 5)
R e c o m m e n d e d
RYS 200 Regis tered Y oga School
b y
t h e
L o n e l y
P l a n e t
YogaAlliance Integrity. Diversity. Community.
Approved Internationally Recognised Certificate
200 & 500 Hrs Certified Yoga Teacher Training
RYS 500 Regis tered Y oga School
During TTC only 1 Drop-In Class for Public 10.00 AM to 12.00 Noon Pay in Advance to reserve your Spot
No Classes on Tuesday
Classes taught by : Yogi Sivadas (E-RYT 500) M e e t w i t h Yo g i S i v a d a s a t 1 . 3 0 P M o n l y, Ex c e p t Tu e s d a y
KAILASH
TRIBAL
SCHOOL
YOGA AND HOLISTIC HEALING
B H A G S U R O A D , M C L E O D GANJ
www.yogatribe.org www.kailashyogaindia.com Mob : 98161-50326 / www.yogatribe.org Contact Magazine
2
February 2011
task because many subjects were Lha's 6th photography training difficult unwilling to be photographed. Teachers Lillian Bertz and Ian Moore
In January 2011, ten Tibetan students participated in a one month photography workshop at Lha Charitable Trust. These students learned photography theory, Adobe Photoshop, online photo storage and applied these techniques in the real world. Each day these budding artists
Contact Magazine
participated in photo excursions that focused on a particular theme such as portraits, motion and macro photos. Furthermore, everyone was encouraged to take risks and think outside of the box. The teachers pushed the student’s limits. Talking to the public was sometimes a
3
(from the U.S.A.) were eager to work with Tibetan youth and found the overall experience very rewarding. This was an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in Tibetan culture. Many of the students had never used a camera before, so it was not difficult for Bertz and Moore to inspire their students to express themselves using this innovative art. Upon completing the course, many students now have a new found interest in journalism and documentary photography. Most importantly, these students hope to spread awareness about Tibet with their photos. Bertz believes: “Photography is a fun way to explore your community, yourself and your role in the world.” Moore on the other hand states that the camera can be used as a non violent weapon. Both Bertz and Moore are advocates of photography’s healing properties and believe that it can be very therapeutic for the soul. They hope to showcase these photos in the United States to spread the message of Tibet’s continual struggle for freedom.
February 2011
(continued from page 1)
recovered foreign currencies are donations made during the recent celebrations. “We wish to point out that the currency used in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan, and therefore Tibetans from Tibet often make donations in Yuan, as do Buddhists from mainland China. We further stress that the donations in Yuan formed less than 10% of the total cash amount. The notes came in multiple denominations, ranging from one-Yuan notes upward, clearly reflecting their origin as donation from multiple individual sources. Some of the Yuan were new notes bundled together, reflecting a practice among Chinese and other cultures of offering only new currency notes to high abbots or spiritual leaders. Furthermore, disciples from Chinese cultures often visit India in groups, pool their offerings and make a single collective donation.” Many Indian media sources also make the claim that the currency was to be used for illegal land purchases on behalf of the Chinese in order to make a network of Chinese friendly monasteries along the Nepalese border. These claims are also not backed up with any verifiable facts, and have been refuted by not only the Karmapa’s office, but also by the statement from the Home Minister P. Chidambaram that “Investigations are underway in Karmapa case. No conclusion drawn [sic] whether he is a
Chinese agent or not.” It has been widely speculated in comments made upon the internet articles that these accusations are widely speculative, and reminiscent of the yellow journalism found in American newspapers near the turn of the last century, whom many believe to have contributed to WWI. These allegations may have similarly destructive political outcomes. If widely believed by the citizens of India, these accusations foster a mistrust of Tibetan refugees as a whole and strain the already “India has become a second homeland to Tibetans. We all have taken refuge and settled here. India, in contrast to communist China, is a free country, a democratic country that is based on the rule of law. Therefore I trust that things will improve and the truth will become clear in time. So please be at ease. There is no need to worry...You have all borne hardship to come here under this hot sun, and I thank you for that too.” -Gyalwang Karmapa fragile attitude toward the over 125,000 refugees of Tibet living in India. Because Tibet is currently occupied by China these refugees have taken sanctuary in democratic India, where they have the freedom to live in peace, practice the religion of Tibetan Buddhism and educate their children in Tibetan language and culture. The Indian government also contributes financially to the schools for the Tibetan refugees, creating an environment of learning and hope for the children of the refugees of Tibet, and providing the basis of the Tibetan refugee societies across India. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Gyalwang Karmapa have both expressed their grateful sentiment to India and praise the country for its democracy. Both religious leaders have expressed trust in the judiciousness of the Indian
photo reprinted from Indiatvnews.com
Contact Magazine
4
government’s investigation. The Gyalwang Karmapa calls India his second home, and he refutes all allegations that he has any link to China. On his website, a statement from the Gyalwang Karmapa office of administration comments”His Holiness the Karmapa is very grateful for the refuge given to him by the people and Government of India, and has nothing but the best interests at heart for the country that is the home of his faith and that has allowed him to practice his faith freely for many years.” The Dalai Lama stated “He (Karmapa) is an important Lama...The Karmapa has many devotees including from China. Some money would have naturally being received by him.” The support of the Tibetan community echoes the words from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Tibetan people have held many peaceful marches supporting Gyalwang Karmapa, and refuting the allegations that he has in any way betrayed himself, his culture, and his movement by affiliating with China. In Mcleod Gunj a march was organized by the Tibetan people who live here as refugees. The large group of people including monks, nuns, Tibetan refugees, people from the Himalayan regions, and foreigners walked together from the Main Temple to the Gyoto Tantric Monastery in a spiritual march as a symbol of truth and faith in support of Gyalwang Karmapa. “As far as the people are concerned they already have their XVIIth Karmapa in Ogyen Trinley Dorje,” Thukchuk Lachungpa, a spokesperson of the Karmapa Reception Committee and the Joint Action Committee stated. Gyalwang Karmapa himself addressed his supporters saying, “Today, so many people have gathered to show their love, sincere intentions and support, and I want to especially thank you and express my heartfelt gratitude. We are now facing such a situation, which has arisen due to misunderstandings and mistakes, that it has even caused concern to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.” “India has become a second homeland to Tibetans. We all have taken refuge and settled here. India, in contrast to communist China, is a free country, a democratic country that is based on the rule of law. Therefore I trust that things will improve and the truth will become clear in time. So please be at ease. There is no need to worry...You have all borne hardship to come here under this hot sun, and I thank you for that too.” February 2011
(continued from page 1) Geng He, the wife of missing Chinese human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng, was in attendance and spoke out to Pres. Obama via an interpreter: “If you still remember the pain of the void you had growing up without your dad, maybe you can help my children reunite with their dad.” Tibetans had high expectations of the US role in the summit. Although the US recognizes Tibet as part of the People’s Republic of China, a White House statement previously conveyed President Obama’s “strong support for the preservation of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural and linguistic identity and the protection of human rights for Tibetans.” Pres. Obama hosted His Holiness the Dalai Lama in February 2010 despite severe criticism from Beijing. At the time, Ma Zhaoxu, China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman, said the meeting “violated the U.S. government’s repeated acceptance that Tibet is a part of China and it does not support Tibetan independence.” Nonetheless, Pres. Obama issued a subsequent statement praising His Holiness’s “commitment to nonviolence and his pursuit of dialogue with the Chinese government.” Moreover, a file from the US Embassy in Beijing recently released on Wikileaks cited Ambassador Cheng Guoping as stating that then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “had the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) scared to death on the eve of her [2009] visit.” Rep. Pelosi has been an outspoken supporter of Chinese human rights activists and of the Dalai Lama throughout her political career. Beijing denied her request to visit Tibet. In anticipation of Pres. Hu’s visit, Rep. Pelosi issued a 19 January 2011 statement that “there has been bipartisan concern in the Congress about the human rights situation in China and Tibet.” Pres.Hu was prepared, then, when Pres. Obama broached the subject of China’s human rights record. The US President broadly contended that China was obligated to ensure the basic liberties “recognized in the Chinese Constitution.” Pres. Obama asserted that “societies are more harmonious, nations are more successful, and the world is more just” when countries uphold citizens’ universal human rights. In reference to Tibet, Pres. Obama stated “the United States continues to support further dialogue between the
Contact Magazine
government of China and the representatives of the Dalai Lama to resolve concerns and differences, including the preservation of the religious and cultural identity of the Tibetan people.” President Hu, who had earlier refused President Obama’s request to meet with representatives of the Dalai Lama, responded that “Taiwan and Tibetrelated issues concern China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and they represent China’s core interests. They touch upon the national sentiments of the 1.3 billion Chinese.” President Hu went on to explain that “China is a developing country with a huge population, and also a developing country in a crucial stage of reform … In this context, China still faces many challenges in economic and social development. And a lot still needs to be done in China, in terms of human rights.” CNN’s Beijing correspondent later wrote of the incident, “It is the only time that I can remember when President Hu publicly acknowledged the ‘universality of human rights.’” Despite President Obama’s assertions and President Hu’s concession, many in the international community are upset by what they perceive as President Obama’s reluctance to assertively press President
Hu on human rights issues. The Tibet Post in particular noted the irony that the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize winner hosted an opulent dinner for the jailor of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize winner. In China, news sources censored the two leaders’ discussion of human rights issues and footage of anti-Chinese protests and glossed over US criticism of President Hu’s visit. CCTV reported that House Speaker John Boehner, “for his part, welcomed Hu’s visit to the House” and that Senator Harry Reid “noted that China plays an important role on major international affairs.” In fact, both Sen. Boehner and Sen. Reid refused to attend the state dinner in President Hu’s honor, Sen. Reid going so far as to call the Chinese President a “dictator” (in a statement which he later retracted). Chinese news sources made no mention of House Representative Dana Rohrabacher, who described China’s government as a “gangster regime that murders their own people” and likened Chinese leaders to “Nazis.” In spite of the international criticism, some Tibetan refugees are optimistic about the meeting and remain positive about Pres. Obama.
Rishi Yoga Centre Yoga Alliance International registered certification programme ashtanga yoga and yoga teacher training YOGA, BREATHING, MEDITATION AYURVEDIC FOOD FOR HEALTH INTENSIVE YOGA PRACTICE AYURVEDIC MASSAGE
Yoga Classes 9-10am and 4-6pm
Meditation 8-8 am and 6-7pm
Teacher Shivam has been practicing yoga and meditation for the last 18 years. Shivam has been teaching different methods of yoga such as Hatha, Kundalini, Ashtanga and Iyengar yoga. He has taught in Europe,UK, New York and India. Fluent in English, French and Spanish. CONTACT: Shivam. Phone: 0981 656 5138 Yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in / www.rishiyogaindia.com Himalyan Paradise Hotel, Jogiwara Rd - Map #15
5
February 2011
Tong-Len receives blessings from His Holiness and the Tibetan Government The Tong-Len charity has been operating since 2004. Tong-Len’s ambition is to support families living in slums to break the cycle of poverty. Working very closely with the slum in Dharamsala (Charan Khad), for the past six years, Tong-Len has been and continues to develop programs aimed at health and education. The success and development of Tong-Len’s projects have been a result of the coordination and hard work by all in the Tong-Len team. Programs are funded by generous international, local and national supporters. Tong-Len is very grateful to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his blessings and financial support given to the child education and nutrition projects in the Charan slum. Jamyang the founder and director of Tong-Len came to India from Tibet in his early 20’s. After studying at Sera Monastery in South India he decided to become a social worker as he felt that social engagement was very important. Jamyang feels that the support and guidance of His Holiness, the Tibetan Government, and the Government of India to live and learn here, as a Tibetan in exile, has been a blessing and has in turn allowed him the opportunity to help and reach out to those in need. Tong-Len operates a sponsored child education project where children are supported to attend a private school and receive care and tuition in a hostel/ home setting. Currently 40 children live in the hostel and show outstanding success in so many areas of life. In 2009 His Holiness kindly blessed the children and the
project in a private audience (see photo). His Holiness provides funds to support the education preparation and exploration sessions for the children under 5 on weekday mornings and the provision of a nutritious lunch. In addition, older children are provided with educational support sessions each week day afternoon. In total these sessions are attended by approximately 150 children each day. The primary aim is to provide educational support, literacy, and ensure proper childhood nutrition. Tong-Len also operates a mobile health clinic to six slum communities throughout the district. The mobile health clinic provides clinics to the slums for general health, immunizations, and monitoring for children under the age of 5. In total approximately 2370 people receive access to Tong-Len’s health services. Tong-Len has many plans for the development of its current projects and for the establishment of new projects.
This year will see the 40 Hostel children move into a new house and approximately 46 more children will be invited into the sponsorship program. “I invite anyone who might like to support Tong-Len to consider sponsoring a child’s education in the expanding hostel program. This program not only changes the life of an individual but the whole family and community has and will benefit
dramatically by the determination, dedication and talent of these children” says Jamyang. There are many ways to contribute to the projects of Tong-Len and all contributions are needed. For more information please visit www.tong-len.org OR contact Tong-len Office at Top Floor, Bank of Baroda Opposite Kangra Art Gallery Kotwali Bazaar Dharamsala 176215 H.P India Phone 91-1892-223930
Contact Magazine
6
February 2011
Open Letter to Hu Jintao Dear Hu Jintao, As the Chinese leader most closely associated with Tibet, you have declared Tibet to be one of the most sensitive "core issues" in the US-China relationship. We expect that it will be high on the agenda of your discussions with President Obama this week. Mr Hu, you began your rise to power as Party chief in Tibet (although you didn't enjoy the altitude in Lhasa), and you have been instrumental in setting and implementing policy on Tibet. As the succession process begins in the Chinese Communist Party, what will be your legacy on Tibet? Tibetans have not forgotten that you presided over that terrifying time of martial law in Lhasa in 1989 ‹ and you were one of the first regional leaders to congratulate those who ordered the troops to open fire on Tiananmen Square three months later. Today, there is a deepening crackdown in Tibet. Tibetans have risked their lives to express their loyalty to their leader the Dalai Lama and their anguish as a result of more than 50 years of suppression. Your response has been to strengthen the very measures that caused the largely peaceful wave of protests that swept across Tibetan areas of the PRC from March, 2008 onwards. You have tightened control to suffocation point, imposing new measures that weaken the institutions of Tibetan Buddhism and undermine Tibetan language, bedrock of its culture. Although you are leader of a Communist state that promotes atheism, you have even declared that Tibetan lamas cannot be reincarnated without government permission. Your actions point to profound contradictions in China's leadership today. While you demonstrate increasing strength and aggressive authority in your assertions towards global leadership, you regard peaceful disagreement with the juggernaut topdown policies of the Communist Party as
Contact Magazine
a threat to your nation's "security". The latter is not the approach of a strong state. As Tibetans, we are not alone in believing that the measure of greatness of a nation is not only based on turbo-charged mercantilism. We believe that ultimately if China is to achieve greatness you must lead with a moral authority and take into account the wishes and genuine grievances of the Chinese and Tibetan people. The need for change is urgent. Your government and Party have engaged in a
“You have tightened control to suffocation point, imposing new measures that weaken the institutions of Tibetan Buddhism and undermine Tibetan language, bedrock of its culture.”
systematic attack on the rule of law and civil society. You characterise two of the most progressive and important voices for peace on the world stage today ‹ our leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Chinese scholar Liu Xiaobo ‹ as "criminals". Tibet is under virtual lockdown, with ever longer prison sentences being imposed as ultimately futile attempts to silence the peaceful expression of views. Do you want the leitmotif of your legacy to be a hellish, constricting fear? Mr Hu, you can no longer say that what happens in Tibet is simply a matter of China's "internal affairs". Tibet is a "core issue" for the world, not just for China. Tibet is the earth's 'Third Pole' with the world's largest reserves of freshwater outside the Arctic and Antarctic. The fragile ecology of the Tibetan plateau, the source of most of Asia's major rivers including the Yangtze, is of critical importance to the water-dependent societies in downstream nations. And yet you have developed and are pursuing
7
fast-track economic strategies and damning projects that are known to contribute to the adverse effects of global warming and risk devastation in downstream communities, including India. Twenty-first century thinking requires us to move beyond 19th century nationbuilding based on the exploitation of natural resources. There is an increasing consensus among Chinese, Tibetan and Western scholars that your policy of settling nomads in Tibet is leading to environmental degradation and increasing poverty. Scientists say that the traditional ecosystem knowledge of Tibetan nomads protects the land and livelihoods and helps restore areas already degraded. The involvement of Tibetans is essential to sustaining the long-term health of the land and water resources that China and the rest of Asia depends upon. Mr Hu, a new generation of leaders has a responsibility to listen to voices for change from Tibet and China, and to deal responsibly with Tibet policy. It is not too late for you to take an important and historic step before the succession runs its course, with regard to another important succession. The Dalai Lama is recognised by the world as the pre-eminent representative of the Tibetan people. The potential for instability increases, not decreases, after he passes away. Now is the time for a farsighted Chinese leadership to engage with this moderate, influential leader - who is revered by thousands of Chinese, too - before it is too late. We hope that your visit to Washington is fruitful. Sincerely, Tencho Gyatso, Tsering Jampa, and Pema Wangyal from the International Campaign for Tibet February 2011
Events C alendar Losar (Tibetan New Year) March 5 Losar is the Tibetan New Year, a time for family and friends to gather together and welcome the New Year. People wish each other good luck and hope for peace and prosperity and making resolutions for the coming year. 10 March 1959 : Tibetans rebel against Chinese forces On this day in 1959, Tibetans band together in revolt, surrounding the summer palace of the Dalai Lama in defiance of Chinese occupation forces. China’s occupation of Tibet began nearly a decade before, in October 1950, when troops from its People’s Liberation Army (PLA) invaded the country, barely one year after the Communists gained full control of mainland China.
February Teachings in Dharamsala, H.P., India on March 14 & 15 His Holiness will give two-day teachings at the request of a group of Thais. Teachings in Dharamsala, H.P., India on March 19 His Holiness will give a short teaching from the Jataka Tales in the morning. Holi (The Festival of Colours) March 19 Holi was originally a spring fertility and harvest festival. Nowadays, it is more a celebration of life, and is a very lively celebration that is fun for all participants. Holi is celebrated on last full moon of the month of
Traditional Tibetan Soft Dolls
Phalguna (in February or March).Bonfires are lit on the night of the full moon to rid the air of evil spirits. On the next morning, the participants smear each other with paint, and throw colored water and dye in the air and at each other.During the festival of Holi there are no distinctions of caste, class, age, or gender. After all, who can tell peole apart when they are daubed with paint?
- Map #3
For play or decoration! Individually handcrafted and filled with pure, local sheep wool. Tamana Shop, Jogiwara Rd, or visit our workshop. Contact: 981 637 4389
Adra Shawls We specialize in Mongolian Pashmina, Silk Pashmina, Ladakhi Wool, pure Pashmina, Silk Angoora, Yak Wool, Pure Wool Shawls &Kullu Shawls. Deals in semi-precious & precious stones jewelry. Wholesale and retail available We are open 7 days a week: Mon - Sunday Please visit in Bhagsu nag near taxi stand at Anand Palace Hotel Road Contact: 01892 220665, Mob: 92186 61112
Each Item is genuine and guaranteed
Contact Magazine
Learn Hindi...
Tibetan Astrologer
Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Consult for: Life horoscope, Partnership Horoscope, Solving Family Problems
...the quick and easy way with an experienced teacher
Contact: Om Yoga Meditation Centre Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road. Tel. 9816494732
Mob : 98161-50326 8
Ramesh House, near KCC BankBhagsu Raod Mcleod Ganj Contact 9418101965 / www.yogatribe.org February 2011
ART & MUSIC Naam Art Gallery LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamsala MOBILE: 9816043708 Tibet Museum LOCATION : Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: 9am-5pm, Tue-Sun Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression LOCATION : Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: 2am-5pm on Mon, Wed and Fri Wood Carving Classes LOCATION : Zoha Art, Bhagsu Nag Rd CONTACT: Meena EMAIL: kriast@rediffmail.com Music Classes Kailash Tribal Music School All kinds of Indian Traditional instruments WEB : www.musictribe.org LOCATION : Bhagsu Rd, near Green Shop HOURS : visiting 1-2pm, no class on Tues PHONE: 981 615 0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com
BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works & Archives LOCATION : Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala HOURS : 9-10am, 11-noon and 3-4pm PHONE: 222 467 Public Audience with HH Karmapa CONTACT: Cheme Choegyal LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: 2.30pm, Wed and Sat PHONE: 9816315336 DETAILS : www.kagyuoffice.org Tushita Meditation Center WEB : www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: 9:30-11:30am & 12:30-4pm, Mon-Sat PHONE: 221 1866 EMAIL: tushita_info@sacharnet.in
COOKING Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION : Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE : 220 992 HOURS : Registration from 9am-11am, See pg 3.
Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes LOCATION : Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop PHONE : 981 646 8719 HOURS: 8am-9pm N is ha ’ s Ind ia n C o o k ing C la s s LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: Classes from 4-6pm EMAIL : nisha@indiancookingcourse.com S angy e’s K it chen Tr ad it io na l T ib e t a n C o o k ing C la s s e s Recommended by Lonely planet LOCATION: Aross from Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10am-12pm and 4-6pm PHONE: 981 616 4540 EMAIL : sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in
HEALTH SERVICES Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic LOCATION: in front of Main Temple HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE : 221 106, 98160 21106 Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma LOCATION : Hotel Surya Rd, opposite the Tourism Informations Centre PHONE : 941 824 9399 OURS: 10am-2pm and 2:30-7pm
ASTROLOGY Tibetan Astrology LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near KCC Bank PHONE: 941 810 1965 EMAIL : soyeshi@yahoo.co.in
Indian Cooking Classes LOCATION : Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10am-6pm PHONE : 941 813 0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com
Maanav Health Clinic LOCATION : Main Square HOURS: 10am-12:30pm and 2-5pm PHONE: 941 815 5795 EMAIL : maanavcare@yahoo.co.in
(continued on page 10)
OM YOGA CENTER TEACHER TRAINING STARTING 1 MARCH
D.C.A.
HATHA, ASHTANGA, AND KUNDALINI YOGA
IS NOW OPEN NEW ATTRACTION IN TOWN:
BOWLING ALLEY POOL AND VIDEO GAMES Fromthebusstopconstructionsite,takethe staircaseallthewaydowntobasement2. BASEMENT 2, NEW BUS STAND (BELOW BUS STAND), MCLEODGANJ - Map #28 CONTACT Ramesh @ 9218037006
CERTIFIED BY YOGA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL AND INDIAN GOVERNMENT OFFERINGS: 6 DAY INTENSIVE COURSE, DROP-IN CLASS, OPEN MEDITATION SESSION DAILY YOGA CLASS DAILY MEDITATION CLASS 9-11 AM AND 4-6 PM 8-9 AM AND 3-4 P
REIKI I, II, III WITH TREATMENT OM YOGA MEDITATION CENTER KETAN LODGE, JOGIWARA ROAD. TEL: 9805693514 - Map #18, EMAIL: OM.YOGA@YMAIL.COM WEBSITE: WWW.OMYOGAINDIA.COM
Contact Magazine
9
February 2011
HEALTH SERVICES (continued from page 9) Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE : 222 618, 223 113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE :: 941 813 0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com Primary Health Centre LOCATION : Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala PHONE : 222 053, 223 381 HOURS : Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, MonSat; Emergencies: 24 hrs, daily
Tibetan Universal Massage WEB : www.tibetanmassage.com LOCATION : Jogiwara Rd - Map #16 EMAIL: lobsang36dolmat@yahoo.com See ad on pg 2.
LANGUAGES Tibetan Language Class LOCATION : Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS : Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE : 220 992 See ad on pg 3. Hindi Classes LOCATION : Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE : 981 649 4732 Hindi Lessons with Kailash LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE : 220 063, 941 816 1947 HOURS : 4-6pm, daily Hindi Lessons with Sunil LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE : 221 942, 941 818 7281 EMAIL : sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in Tibetan Language LOCATION : The Library HOURS: 10-11am and noon-1pm See Buddhist philosophy listing. Tibetan with Teacher Pema Youdon: LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post office HOURS: 1-4pm, or leave a message.
MASSAGE
Elevated Living! For visitors on long term stay! A perfect haven for meditation, spirituality, holiday, leisure or simply an extended vacation....!
OUR USP ~ convenient & central ~ private entrances, balconies, sit out lawns with sunny mountain & valley view ~ fully equipped pantries (incl. microwave, electric kettle, electric stove, electric chimney, sink, refrigerator & all accessories) ~ walking distance to The Tibetan Library (LTWA) & Central McLeod Ganj Contact: ++ 91 98163 05576; horizonvilla2008@yahoo.co.in En route The Buddha House McLeod Ganj-Map #20
Contact Magazine
Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & Treatment LOCATION : Lha Office, PHONE : 220 992 HOURS :
Temple Rd
Kailash Tribal School with Yogi Sivadas WEB : www.yogatribe.org LOCATI ON : Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop - Map #6 HOURS : visiting 1-2pm, no class on Tues PHONE: 981 615 0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 813 0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION : Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE : 220 992 See ad pg 3. Synergy Ayuredic Massage Centre LOCATION : Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com Traditional Thai Massage LOCATION : Opposite the Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981 633 9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com Zen Shiatsu Theraphy LOCATION : Ketan Lodge Jogiwara Raod EMAIL: manushiatsu786@yahoo.com
HOME STAY Lha can arrange accommodation with local Tibetan famlies, breakfast and dinner included. The Homestay program is provided by Lha to directly benefit the daily life of Tibetan refugee families.
Registration from 9am-11am, See pg 3.
Jannat Ayurveda LOCATION : Akash Hotel, down Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant PHONE: 981 654 6243
LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd, main market PHONE: 220 992
Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) Volunteers are urgently needed to help with the discussion group, web design, teaching and more! LIT is a volunteer-based school which aims to teach Tibetans and travellers about how they can learn and share ideas about Tibetan issues.
It offers:*3 Night Events Weekly @
7pm - Tuesday Tibetans Talk and Thenthuk noodles , Friday Tibetan Pizza and Movies! Monday Momo’s and Movies! * Daily Tibetan Cooking Class @ 12pm *Open Tibetan/English Discussion Group @ 2pm *Free Tibetan Language Class @4pm
We also offers classes aimed at educating Tibetans in Buddhism, Tibetan grammar and English grammar.
So come and visit us to find out more about what we offer! We are located off Jogiwara Rd (on the left hand side), behind the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant, near the Tibet Hope Center. You can also contact us at 9418794218 or email: Learning AndIdeasForTibet@g mail.com
10
February 2011
TRAVEL
MEDITATION Esoteric Meditation Center Kailash Tribal School with Yogi Sivadas WEB : www.yogatribe.org LOCATION : Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop - Map #6 HOURS : visiting 1-2pm, no class on Tues PHONE: 981 615 0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com Himalayan Retreat Center Offers meditation, as well as guided camping tours & health services. PHONE: 981 612 2372 LOCATION: Off Jogiwara Rd, near the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre See the Yoga & Reiki section. Tushita Meditation Center WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: 9:30-11:30am, Mon-Sat PHONE : 221 866 EMAIL : spc@tushita.info
ASSISTANCE
Lha Travel Assistance LOCATION : Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE : 220 992 HOURS : Registration from 9am-11am, See pg 3.
Yogi Cottage Yoga teaching courses available here. LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., behind Rose Cafe HOURS : daily morning & afternoon sessions
YOGA & REIKI Drop-in Yoga Class at Lha LOCATION: Temple Road PHONE: 220992 Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre LOCATION: Dharamkot, on the footpath to Bhagsu - Map #5 EMAIL: info@hiyogacentre.com WEB: www.hiyogacentre.com
Nature Cure Health Club
Yoga Meditation at Yak Trak EMAIL: www.yaktrak.com TIME: Star and end Manali 20 April EMAIL: yak@yaktrak.com PHONE: 9816177125
with Mahinder Kapoor
Kailash Tribal School with Yogi Sivadas LOCATION : Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop - Map #6 WEB : www.yogatribe.org HOURS : visiting 1-2pm, no class on Tues PHONE: 981 615 0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION : Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #17 HOURS : 8am-6pm PHONE : 980 569 3514
Vipassana Meditation WEB : www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: 4-5pm, Mon-Sat PHONE : 221 309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org
Universal Yoga with Vijay Recognized by Yoga Alliance WEB : www.vijaypoweryoga.com LOCATION: Room #5, Yongling School Building, Jogiwara Rd - Map #13 HOURS : Reopen in April 2011 EMAIL : vijayamar@yahoo.com
Rishi Yoga Centre with Yogi Shivam WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org LOCATION: Himalyan Paradise Hotel Jogiwara Rd - Map #15 HOURS: 7-8am & 6:15-7:15pm PHONE: 981 656 5138 EMAIL : yogi_shivam@yahoo.com
Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 13, Mobile: 94181 30119 or 09736333888 Email: mahinder_m@hotmail.com,
12 years’ experience and recommended by the Lonely Planet Visit us for: Swedish massage courses and treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses and treatment, reflexology treatment, SPA and Singing Bowl Treatment, steambaths, sauna and mudbaths. Our teacher has had experience teaching in Israel.
Tourist Information Bus Schedule * Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.
Police Contact Information LOCATION : Past St.John’s Church, on road to Dharamshala in Cantt area. PHONE: 221 483
LEAVING FROM THE MCLEOD GANJ BUS STAND, UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED: DELHI:
Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840)
TAXIS
A private taxi to Lower AMRITSAR:
Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Outpatient services: 9am1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. PHONE: 222 053,223 381
Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165) Dharamsala will cost you *from Dharamsala Rs150. Cram into a jeep DEHRADUN : Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm (from the bus stand), and MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala it’ll only cost you Rs10. PATHANKOT : Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm (Rs75) SHIMLA : Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Post Office Semi Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala
The McLeod Ganj Post Office is located on LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe HOURS: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. PHONE: 221 924 Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only.
FOR BOOKINGS: LOCATION : ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square HOURS: 10am-6pm, daily PHONE: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.
Contact Magazine
11
February 2011
Around Town: Helping Out ANIMAL
RESCUE
Dharamsala Dog Rescue We are in urgent need of vet volunteers, animal experts and sponsors. W e are in immediate need of sponsors for two paralysed dogs that need a home, wheelchair, monthly food and medicine. Please contact us if you see an injured/sick dog. Anything you can do is appreciated. WEB : www.hnsindia.org LOCATION : Behind the District Court Complex on Chilgari St, Lower Dharamsala PHONE : 981 622 0841 EMAIL: friendsforanimals@gmail.com
CO MMU NIT Y
OUT REA CH
The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC) facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on A N E C nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levls of human society. As part of our General Outreach Program, ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas and views of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers. WEB : www.anec.org.in LOCATION : No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamsala PHONE : 941 809 4476, 941 898 7745 EMAIL : executive_directoranec@yahoo.com Learning and Ideas for Tibet (L.I.T.) is a non-profit organization that needs a range of volunteers interested in the Tibetan movement and community education. CONTACT: Lauren PHONE : 941 879 4218 L O C AT I O N : Jogiwara Rd, near the Korean Restaurant Lha Community Social Work fosters projects for the benefit and enrichment of the local community. We provide a library, English and French classes, computer training, medical assistance programmes, environmental programmes and clothing distribution to needy Tibetans and Indians, in addition to supporting construction and renovation projects. See ad pg 3. WEB : www.lhaindia.org LOCATION : Temple Rd, across from State Bank of India HOURS: 9am-noon and1-5pm, Mon-Fri PHONE : 220 992 Nyingtob Ling (‘Realm of Courage’) helps support Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children work hard at making delightful handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and LOVE visitors! LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE : 0189 224 6366, 981 685 1841 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com
Contact Magazine
Rogpa Community Free Tibetan Baby Care Centre was created in order to help low-income, Tibetan families become selfsufficient and independent by providing free child care so that the parents can go out and work. The Centre provides care, art time, games and fun for Tibetan refugee children from infancy to three years. Volunteer requirements: a love of infants, a minimum commitment of 15 days, a willingness to do hard work (there are lots of diapers to be changed!) and a desire to create and maintain a fun atmosphere. LOCATION : Rogpa office (near Tibetan Ashoka Hotel, Jogiwara Rd) HOURS: 9am-1:30-5:00pm. PHONE : 981 665 9549 EMAIL : rogpa2004@yahoo.com Volunteer Tibet You’re motivated to share your time and assist organisations in the Tibetan community. Even if you’re j us t passingthrough Dharamsala, there are still many ways to donate your time & make a difference. For a full list of volunteer opportunities,both long- and short-term, please contact us: WEB : www.volunteertibet.org.in LOCATION : Jogiwara Rd, opposite Akash Guesthouse. HOURS: 9am- and 5pm, Mon-Fri PHONE : 98820 17083, 220 894 EMAIL:volunteertibetdharamsala@gmail.com Women’s Team Volunteers required to teach Indian women computer/English skills. For more information visit Jitender@WomensTeam.com or mobile 09817515123
DONATIONS Lha Donation Center Accepting donations of all kinds: clothing, sleeping bags, books, school supplies, office supplies, medical supplies, used laptops, financial assistance... Donations are clearly recorded and distributed to those in need, both Tibetan and Indian. Lha is a registered non-profit, social service organisation. See advert on pg 3. Tong-Len Donations welcomed: medical supplies, stationary, books, toys and children’s clothing. LOCATION : Top floor, Bank of Baroda opposite the art gallery Kotwali Bazar, Dharamsala PHONE : 981 608 1562, 223 930
ENVIRONMENT The Mountain Cleaners is a voluntary organization founded in April 2009 by Jodie Underhill who have successfully set up a waste management system at the popular trekking destination Triund. You can help Jodie and the Mountain
12
Cleaners every Monday at 9.30 am & join them up to The Clean Upper Dharamshala Project was founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLod Ganj. The Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Centre are part of the Clean Upper Daramshala Project. Join us for the weekly guided tour on Wednesdays at 3 pm at the office of CUDP!
PUBLICATION Contact Magazine Submit a single piece or become a steady correspondent of this local, grassroots publication. Contact needs volunteers to write, proofread and edit copy and work on graphic design.Volunteers needed, especially those with a knowledge of Photoshop. CONTACT: Lobsang Rabsel at the Lha office, Temple Road. PHONE : 981 615 5523 EMAIL : info@contactmag.org
TUTORS & CLASS ASSISTANTS Volunteer language teachers, for both longand short-term placements, are needed for quality education in Mcleod Ganj: Gu-Chu-Sum provides support for ex-political prisoners and their families. It also organises campaigns for the release of current political prisoners. Gu-Chu-Sum School needs volunteers for its English conversation classes and tutoring sessions from 6pm onwards, Mon- Fri. LOCATION : Jogiwara Rd, downstairs Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: 4:30-6:30pm PHONE : 220 680 EMAIL: humanrights.desk@guchusum.org Tibet Hope Center is a registered NGO started by two Tibetans to support the newcomers from Tibet. We run a conversation class where our students can practice their English, and we are in constant need of conversation partners. They love to ask questions about your life and exchange ideas on many topics. Think Globally, Act Locally WEB: www.tibethopecenter.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, behind Gu-Chu-Sum HOURS : 4:30-5:45pm, daily, and we even have a campfire every evening! PHONE : 981 637 3889 EMAIL : info@tibethopecenter.org works with Indian communities liv ing in poverty toward a healthy and sustainable future. Needed urgently: volunteer primary teachers and assistants for maths, English and art, as well as nurses and health workers. CONTACT: Tashi Lhamo LOCATION : Top floor, Bank of Baroda opposite art gallery, Kotwali Bazar, Dharamsala PHONE : 981 608 1562, 223 930 EMAIL : volunteer@tong-len.org
February 2011
Contact Magazine
13
February 2011