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october 2005 8th year of publication free!!!
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Tibetan charity offers hope to Dharamsala’s forgotten refugees A look at how Tong-Len has turned compassion into action for the poorest members of Indian society Dharamsala, literally ‘place of shelter’, certainly lives up to its name, and Tibetans are not alone in seeking refuge here. Migrant communities from India’s poorest regions have also settled in the area.
into a life of begging. They live in flimsy makeshift shelters clustered together in groups of up to 300 people. These camps have no sanitation or easily accessible clean water. Consequently, disease is rife, and is usually exacerbated by severe Attracted by Himachal’s relative wealth malnutrition. At least five children from and cooler climate, these people come the camps died during the monsoon this mostly from Maharastra and Rajasthan. year. The majority were once farmers and herders who came to Himachal in search Tong-Len was founded by Lobsang of work after encroaching desert and Jamyang , a monk from Sera monastery sustained drought put an end to their and a group of his friends. The charity’s livelihoods. name comes from the Tibetan Buddhist meditation practice of ‘giving and taking’, Sadly, very few of the settlers have found whereby one takes on the suffering of Four, in harmony regular employment, and most struggle to others whilst simultaneously sending out survive on an income which barely covers love and kindness. These young Tibetans their staple diet of rice and dal. The more were inspired by the teachings of His fortunate have found casual work as Holiness, and set up the charity because labourers, baloon vendors and shoe they felt grateful for the support offered shiners. Women and children scavange to them by India, and wanted to give through rubbish looking for anything something back to their town. Tong-Len they can use or sell, but many are forced is their way of saying ‘thank-you’.
Above: Lobsang Jamyang with one of the children who now lives at the Tong-Len Mandala Hostel
Jamyang explains ‘we noticed that while various charities were working with Tibetan refugees, little was being done to help these people, and they are, in effect, refugees within their own country.’ At the end of 2004, Tong-Len began its child sponsorship programme to give the opportunity for some children from the camps to attend school. Very quickly it became clear that they would not be able to cope with mainstream schooling without additional support. The charity had provided volunteers to assist them continued on page 3 House No. 118 Nandni Niwas Chonor House Road McLeod Ganj
Help us to help them! Donations of all kinds are Welcomed: Time ! Money ! Clothes ! Blankets ! Books ! Household items ! Anything! All enquiries, including volunteering please call 9816438790 or email info@tong-len.org. For more information or to donate online please visit our website: www.tong-Len.org Tong-Len: Registered in India Charity No. 16284 Tong-Len UK: Registered in Scotland Charity No. SC036383
continued on page 3
about contact...2
news & issues...1, 3-9
volunteer...14
non-profit...11
services...12,13
map...17
Contact Magazine is Dharamsala s community publication, which aspires to bring the East and the West together in the most meaningful and beneficial ways. Contact serves the Dharamsala Community, including residents and visitors, by keeping its readers up-todate on current issues and events and by networking education, health, and service workers within the community. We hope to help our diverse family of people from all parts of the world to understand and appreciate better each other. The Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy or benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May love and peace prevail!
Contact welcomes submissions of articles, stories, poems, graphics and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 15th of the month. Any late submissions will only be considered for the next month s issue.
Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material to our email at: contact@contactmag.org
The articles, poems, stories and other material in contact represent the views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Contact staff.
If you would like to contact CONTACT, call Lobsang Rabsel on 9816155523 or leave a message at LHA on Temple Rd (ph: 220-992). If you feel strongly about any of the topics raised in this issue or would like to comment on the articles, write to us at contact@contactmag.org
CONTACT is available from many places around McLeod Ganj including Dream Holiday Travels, Central Tibetan Administration Goverment Information Bookshop, (LHA) Centre, Pema Thang Restaurant, McLo Restaurant and Bar, Nick’s Italian Restaurant & Kundilini Shop.
R e c o m m e n d e d
b y
t h e
contact magazine Written By You, For You Phone: 9816155523 Email: conact@contactmag.org Web: www.contactmag.org contact staff Sarah Lacy Clayton Hopkins Katja Schwarz Ramanathan.L Lobsang Rabsel contributors Nila Suparna printed at Imperial Printing Kotwali Bazar, Dharamshala Phone : 222 390
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with their homework, but the children were malnourished and frequently fell ill. So, with help from the Mandala Trust (a UK charity) Tong-Len established a support hostel catering for 20 children. The TongLen Mandala Hostel opened on the 9th of February 2005 (Losar). It is staffed by two qualified teachers, supported by a cook and a cleaner. Here the children receive regular balanced nutritious meals, support with their studies, and enjoy recreational activities in which their families are also invited to participate. The project has been a huge success.
The children and their parents seem very happy, and their teachers very pleased with their progress. Several children won awards from their school last year. Now that the hostel is full, Tong-Len is actively seeking funds for a second similar project. In the camp at Charan Khad, Tong-Len runs an afternoon school. Here children of all ages learn Hindi, Maths and English. On Fridays they have an Art session. Classes are taught by an Indian teacher with the help of volunteers. Numbers attending have been increasing steadily. Currently the school has between twenty and thirty-five students, but when special events are planned, such as picnic outings, this number swells to fifty. The charity also provides an emergency medical fund and co-ordinates community activities in the camps.
Two children play amoungst the flowers in the hostel courtyard.
Volunteer! Donate!
And the future? Jamyang is hopeful, ‘We want to address the causes of poverty. Help them become self-sufficient. I think education is the key, but there are many ways in which we can help. Our charity is
A young woman receives a prescription for her baby.
very small now, but with support it can grow.’ Tong-Len is now collecting donations of all kinds. Clothes and blankets will be given to those most in need. Other items will be sold through a charity shop in their office.
LHA
Community Social Work
Lha is a sacred Tibetan word meaning "innate goodness nature." Lha is a non-profit community social work programme. Our mission is to provide social services to both Tibetan refugees and local residents. Our main programmes include a Language and Computer School, Medical Aid, Clothing Distribution, Health Education and Water Supply. Lha social work projects are made possible through kind financial donations. To help with costs, the following classes and services are offered to travellers.
TIBETAN COOKING CLASSES
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For all Lha classes and courses please register: 10am - 5pm, Mon - Fri Contact Information: Phone 220.992. SEE MAP FOR LOCATION ALL FEES FROM Lha CLASSES AND SERVICES DIRECTLY BENEFIT Lha COMMUNITY SOCIAL WORK PROJECTS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Contact Magazine
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October 2005
Nowrojee & Sons Shaping the history of McLeod Ganj From serving the British Cantonment in the 1860s to inviting His Holiness the Dalai Lama to McLeod Ganj, this article looks at how 5 generations of owners of this 145-year-old general store shaped the way McLeod Ganj is today. Situated in the main town square, which offices to the area, but this unfortunately, also happens to be the busy bus stand, proved to be unsuccessful. you will find Nowrojee & Sons. Not only When the Tibetan Spiritual leader His Hodoes this antiquated store sell everything from newspapers and confectionary to general household items, but it has had a huge part to play in shaping the way the town of McLeod Ganj is today. Jimmy Nowrojee, the current proprietor is the fifth generation of the Nowrojee family. In his 80s he possesses many memories of the way things used to be in McLeod Ganj and has a fascinating collection of pictures, which he has taken oven the decades as a keen photographer. He passionately recounts the history of the store and McLeod and the way his family played a part in shaping the way this town is now. The store opened its doors 145 years ago in 1860. Set up by Jimmy Nowrojee’s great grandfather, the store was run by Jimmy’s brother Nauzier Nowrojee from 1938 – 2000 and initially served the needs of the British Army Cantonment for 63 years. They sold all sorts of goods including cigarettes, medicines, wines and even arts and ammunitions! They also served the semi-nomadic Gaddi Tribe that were settled here at the time. The family has looked after the interests of the town well. During the huge 1905 earthquake that caused mass destruction, they sent most of the local inhabitants to Lower Dharamshala and other safer areas. However the family remained here and continued to run the store and serve those who remained in the area. In 1947, when the partition of India took place and the British Army left the district, the family fell upon hard times. Yet still the Nowrojees refused to leave the town. With sheer determination, Nauzier Nowrojee tried to reverse the town’s fortune by petitioning the government to move some of its Contact Magazine
Nowrojee’s Store...Back in the days
liness, the Dalai Lama was forced to flee from the Chinese suppression of the uprising in Tibet in 1959, he moved to Mussoorie. It was Nauzier who contacted the Dalai Lama and suggested that he make McLeod a base for him and his Tibetan followers. This was approved by Nehru, India’s Prime Minister at the time, and the rest is history. The sleepy town of McLeod Ganj was rejuvenated into what is now a thriving centre comprising of a mix of Indians, Tibetans, and a large number of foreign tourists many of whom stay for months, even years at a time. The place is thriv-
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October 2005
ing economically and culturally and is home to the supporters of the “Free Tibet” campaigns. Jimmy has seen many changes throughout the years but one thing he is unhappy about is the level of filth and pollution in McLeod Ganj caused by the explosion in population in the area. The amount of waste thrown out onto the streets (from plastic bottles to other types of packaging) and the increasing number of buses, rickshaws and motorbikes churning out high levels of fumes, has turned McLeod Ganj into a wasteland. One thing Jimmy would like, is to see McLeod in its former glory – a cleaner, less polluted place for the future. This needs to be done as a team effort. Everyone from the local inhabitants to the many tourists needs to do their bit to keep the place clean. Talking about former glory, things may have changed rapidly around town, but Nowrojee’s store still remains a place full of charm and is still home to plenty of historical artifacts ranging from old advertisements dating back from the first half of the 1900s to old gramophone records and ancient sweet jars. This place is a must-see ... an attraction in itself! By Nila
Tribute to ‘A little Tibet’ By Suparna people by imparting the knowledge of peace.
Certainly lost time is gone forever and cannot be recovered. But we always try to build a better future for all of us, based on those experiences of the past. In this process many sacrifices are made by the people involved. The concerned community keeps moving forward through both the good and bad times. We all know the story of the Lord Buddha’s own life. He left the luxury of his palace to find peace of mind. All the wealth and luxury of the palace could not deter him from attaining the Bodhisattva, and he chose to serve the
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Contact Magazine
The Tibetan community and Buddhism are both synonymous. Buddhism imparts the message of universal responsibility, love, compassion and kindness. Universal responsibility means feeling for other peoples’ sufferings as we feel for our own. Today humanity is facing a big threat from terrorism and violence. Its very survival is at stake. There is global concern as the whole world shrinks to a small neighbourhood through the power of communication. One incident in a remote community can create ripples throughout the world. In the same way, a small Tibetan settlement in the northern region of India has always attracted worldwide attention in a unique way. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has become a powerful and charismatic figure on the world stage. The hardships that this community is facing will certainly one day change in their favour. The young Tibetans and their dreams are the future of Tibet. Education and the economic strength of these young Tibetans will make them self confident and independent. Since the day this community sought refuge in India, it has built its own initiatives in education, healthcare, economics, science and culture. This community has always maintained its commitment to finding a peaceful solution and sharing what little they have with an ever increasing number of Tibetan refugees. They have proudly kept their cultural identity alive while adapting to life in a foreign country. It is my belief that a community so rich in culture will certainly gain independence one day.
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October 2005
Clean Upper Dharamsala By Katja Schwarz
Contact Magazine recently interviewed the co-ordinator of the “Clean Upper Dharamsala” campaign Mr Tsering Tobgyal. With the growth of the town and the huge inflow of tourists, garbage has become a worrying issue. Read ahead and find out how this campaign aims to clean up Mcleod Ganj and reduce waste. First of all, can you tell us something about yourself? My name is Tsering Tobgyal. Eight years ago I started to work here. My duty is to be the main responsible person for the project named “Clean Upper Dharamsala”.
Dharamsala” project is one part. Both departments work together. The “Clean Upper Dharamsala” project is in charge of collecting garbage from households. But the Municipal Council had some problem with their workers and many were sent to our department. Since 2004 we have had a contract with the Municipal Council Can you please give a short introduction which gives us total responsibility. There to the history of this project? are two kinds of workers now, the street In the 1980s and 1990s, Upper workers who get their salary from the MuDharamsala was a remote place. It was nicipal Council, and the Green Workers absolutely different from today. It was a who are paid by the Tibetan Welfare Ofsmall village with almost no tourists. fice. On the one hand, we pay them from There wasn’t a big garbage problem. But donations (from private persons and in the beginning of some non-govthe 90s it became a I feel that it is extremely ernmental orgatourist area and, important that each individual nizations) and, on therefore, it exrealize their responsibility for the other hand, panded very fast. preserving the environment, to the households Since hotels, make it a par t of daily life, have to pay for streets and water create the same attitude in the service as we pipes were built their families, and spread it to pick up their garvery quickly, the the community. bage right from quality wasn’t their houses. The - His Holiness the Dalai Lama good. The garbage program is now also increased with self-sustained. the tourists coming. The tourists mainly Furthermore, there are two groups of garcame to receive audience with His Holi- bage: Dry and wet garbage. The dry garness the Dalai Lama. What they saw here bage we pick up from the households. Afwas not what they expected to find. They terwards, we separate the garbage and thought about a peaceful, clean settle- most of it we recycle ourselves. One exment in which His Holiness lived. Some ample is that we make paper out of it that people were thinking about doing some- is then sold in our Green Shop on Bhagsu thing and asked - what could be done? Road. For the plastic there is a middleman So, in 1994 the program was started. who buys the garbage and transfers it to Punjab, where there are very good plastic What is the aim of the project? recycling machines. For the wet garbage Of course, we want to solve all problems there is a big dump in Lower Dharamsala. that are related to garbage. There is a lack of information in Tibetan and Indian com- Another big section of your organization munities. Both societies haven’t learned is the education of local people and touranything about garbage. ists. How does that work? Yes, we offer workshops for local people Can you explain how the garbage system and for tourists and we also teach in works so far? schools. These workshops are open for There exists two departments - the Mu- everyone who is interested. Depending nicipal Council, which is run by the In- on the age of the person, we either speak dian government, and the Tibetan Wel- to them or play games about the environfare Office, of which the “Clean Upper ment. The main topic is the question
“
”
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Project Co-ordinator -Tsering Tobgyal
“How should we handle the garbage?” How do you inform the people about these workshops? In the schools we organise dates with the director, and the local people are informed by their block-leader. Upper Dharamsala is divided into four blocks and each block has a leader with whom we inform about the programs. How much interest is there in these workshops? Some of the local Tibetans are very interested and take it very seriously. The Indians, who we mostly meet in the schools are teachers and students, and are also very interested. Even Indians from other places around Dharamsala come to be taught by us. Afterwards they try to set up similar projects in their villages or cities. They pass on the knowledge about garbage management to their fellows. The same occurs with Tibetans who visit from Tibetan settlements in Southern India. On the whole, we are very happy with the interest levels. Are you also satisfied with the use of your Green Shop? Oh yes, it’s a nice shop. In particular tourists like our goods. The recycling is done right next door and we produce great paper, books, diaries, postcards and photo albums. The tourists buy quite alot of October 2005
main customers. But in Upper Dharamsala, there are many places where you can refill your bottles. It’s cheaper and better for the environment. This can be done in all Green Shops and in many other places as well. Especially those who are staying for a long period of time, should and do use this facility. What about garbage bins in the streets? There are only a very few and some tourists wonder about this. We did set up lots of bins in the years before, but it wasn’t very successful. Our streets are small and Green Workers collecting dry garbage from each cars often hit the bins. Many of the bins were household also stolen as it’s a good deal to sell them in other villages. them. The money earnt we use in susNow we are trying to set up new ones taining our program. Also, some nonand are thinking about good places to governmental organizations from abroad put them. However, there are a few big order our paper. containers on Temple Road which can This year, the Himachal Pradesh Gov- be used, and there’s also a way to take ernment banned plastic bags. But many the garbage home to collect it until the goods are packed in plastic, like water Green Workers come. For this project we bottles and sweets. So, is it better to ban also get help from the Municipal Council. plastic or teach people how to recycle What about the garbage build up in the them? In the 1990’s the government did attempt natural environment? to teach people ways of recycling, How- Sometimes we organize events, for exever now the plastic bags have been for- ample the “Environment Day” or somebidden. We like this ban very much. As thing similar, but the Green Workers canwe see it, it works well to carry the bought not always help. They have more than goods in bags made of old newspapers. enough work in picking up the garbage However, the government can’t stop plas- from households, and we can’t hire more tic packaging. These companies pay a lot workers because we cannot pay them. of taxes and some things must be packed Some volunteers do it from time to time in plastic. When we educate the people when there are many tourists in town. we tell them not to buy these goods. Most of the goods you can buy in other ways at Volunteers have contributed to cleaning the market. Things sold at the market are the environment, then other people make also fresher, tastier and healthier. And con- it dirty again the next day. What do you cerning the water bottles - most of the Ti- say about these kind of people? betan households boil their own water and These people just don’t think. Nobody don’t buy these bottles. Tourists are the will punish them, so they stick to their
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old habits, polluting the environment. These people should be punished according to the law. It’s the only way to stop their behavior. There is a law, but we haven’t the power to carry it out. The power is with the Municipal Council. We don’t know why they don’t use it, but perhaps it’s because of their individual mindset. We have complained about this many times. Make a last statement! I request everyone to keep this beautiful environment clean and tidy. And please try to avoid making garbage as much as possible by not buying plastic. REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEERS We are always looking for volunteers to join the Green Workers to help clean Upper Dharamsala. We would like all Tibetans, Indians and foreigners to become involved in the project, even if it is only for a day or two. Every bit of help we can get counts for a better environment for us to live in! Tibetan Welfare Office Clean Upper Dharamshala Bhagsu Road Mcleod Ganj Web: www.tibet.net/twodhasa Email: twodhasa@yahoo.com
Khana Nirvana Community Café Featuring Mexican specials and tasty sandwiches made with our homemade bread
Sunday at Sunset Speaker Series 6:30pm This series features talks from ex-political prisoners speaking about their experiences in Tibet under Chinese occupation, as well as lectures and presentations on various topics.
Monday: The Open Stage 7:30pm Live performances by you! Bring your songs, music, stories, poems, or just a pair of hands to clap with!
Tuesday: Cultural Nights Concerts, fundraisers & special events night (if you have any ideas please come forward!)
Wednesday: Jam Night 7:30pm Bring your instruments and voices to come play together with whoever shows.
Thursday: Film Night 7:30pm Featuring interviews with spiritual teachers from around the world, or the journeys of the Tibetan refugees over the Himalayas.
On Temple Road, above Stitches of Tibet We are now OPEN from 9:30am-10pm Contact Samdup (Mobile: 9816328167)
October 2005
Healing Mandala Clinic Raising Funds for Tong-Len Charity Help Others by Helping Yourself
The next step was to decide what charity to donate the clinic proceeds to. When Elyse met Rachel of Tong-Len Charity at the Karmapa’s teaching, she learned of the organization’s wonderful contributions to the local community. It was a natural union!
American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and did post-graduate work at Zhejiang College of TCM in China. She trained in Thai massage in both California and Thailand. Chinese medicine sees the body as an energy system where each part is indivisible from the whole. Acupuncture addresses the body’s energy channels, or pathways, which relate to our organ, lymph, blood and nervous systems. It benefits the whole range of physical and mental imbalances such as colds, flu, pain, digestive disorders, fatigue, depression, anxiety, menses and organ problems. Elyse explains “My appreciation is always growing for this medicine as I see how beneficial it is for both prevention and treatment of long term diseases. It’s such a complete system addressing the interrelationships of the energetic and physical. It really offers something for everyone...to re-establish harmony and balance of body and mind.”
Elyse is a California and National licensed acupuncturist. She earned a Master’s of Science and Oriental Medicine from the
Anna has a degree in psychology and is a certified and experienced breathwork facilitator and reflexologist. Breathwork
Two Western natural therapists are establishing a temporary health clinic to raise money for the Tong-Len charity (see front page). Anna and Elyse, who have traveled, studied and retreated in Asia for a year, wanted to give back to the community that has helped and inspired them. With several medical service ideas in mind, Elyse consulted her Lama who encouraged her to establish a health clinic in McLeod Ganj. Through this clinic she is offering her skills in Chinese medicine, acupuncture and Thai massage to raise money for local charities. Anna heard of the idea and is offering her skills in breathwork and reflexology. And so the Healing Mandala Clinic emerged.
Guru Shruti Prakash
NATURAL HEALING, SOUL REALIZATION & MYSTERIES EXPERIENCE CENTRE Here you can have session of reading of lines of your palm (Palmistry) Palm Reading,
fifty 50 rupees for five minutes.
Rebirthing, Chakra (Energy Centers) Energy Healing, Shiatsu - Acupressure - Yogik Massage,Yoga, Meditation, Tantra Therapy, Inner Body Cleansing with Water Techniques, Body Movements Therapy etc. (Learning Courses are also available)
AND/OR through Natural Healing you can recover from physical of psychological problems. For more information please come at any time between 8am to 8pm and enquire with Guru Shruti Prakash (Palmist & Healer). Mobile: 98161 20108 Email: guru_shruti@rediffmail.com
Location:
Inside Hotel Snow Palace, Upstairs, First floor, 60 meters from main square, main market, Jogiwara Road, in the small street, opposite Prayer Wheels. McLeod Ganj. Map # 7
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8
is a powerful healing tool which uses a combination of intention, conscious breathing, body awareness and skillful facilitation. It is especially effective for clearing emotional, psychological and physical blocks, limiting beliefs and opening one’s heart. Anna explains, “It still amazes me how simple and highly effective breathwork is. I have had so many major positive shifts and openings in my life from doing it and have seen many others undergo amazing positive transformations. It’s great because you learn to use your breath to tap into your own inner wisdom in a gentle and empowering way that has lasting benefits.” Reflexology works by stimulating acupressure points on the feet. It is deeply relaxing, excellent for overall health and balance, as well as for specific ailments or problems. Anna explains “ You can tell so much about a person and their health just by working on their feet. The foot is an incredible map and reflection of the whole body. I love how you can help neck pain just by working on someone’s big toe!” The Healing Mandala Clinic will be open from October 4 through December, Tuesday to Saturday, 1-6pm by appointment and drop in. Consultations and treatments are by donation and all proceeds go directly to Tong-Len charity. The clinic is located at Yeti Trekking, the grassy area behind the shops at the corner of Tipa and Tushita Raod. Walk up Tushita Road about 50 meters past the Osho shop and enter the Yeti Trekking gate on the right hand side. October 2005
non-profit THE TIBETAN VOLUNTEERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE
LAUNDRY Soon McLeod Ganj will have its first free laundry service for people in need! The elderly, poor, sick, or anyone else unable to take care of their laundry themselves are invited to take advantage of this free community service. The laundry is also available to the general public for a regular fee. The profits will help continue the free service for the needy.
Drop of your clothes at My Cafe on Jogiwara Road. MON-FRI for the public. SAT-SUN for the needy. For more information on this & other Tibetan Volunteer’s for Social Service programs visit www.tibetanvolunteers.org A Division of the Indian Woman’s Association HOMEMADE TOFU, HUMMUS, PEANUT BUTTER, JAMS & MORE! Look for them at various shops around McLeod Ganj, or visit our store in Bhagsu. All profits go to the IWA.
The Clean Upper DharamshalaProject Founded in 1994 to fight environmental pollution in and around McLeod Ganj, the CUDP is run by the Tibetan Welfare Office and consists of four sections: • The Green Workers • The Handmade Recycled Paper Factory • The Green Shop • The Environmental Ecucation Center • Green Workers are seeking volunteers to help for one or two days.. Contact: The TWO, Bhagsu Rd twodhasa@yahoo.com www.tibet.net/twodhasa
Friends of Bill W. AA Meeting Wednesday 6-7 PM Youngling School Jogiwara Rd, Mcleod Ganj
an eco-friendly store! * Handmade recycled paper procucts * 100% safe boiled & filtered water * Chemical free cosmetics * Souvenir T-shirts to support The Green Shop * Profits go to the Clean Upper Dharamshala-Project * Utilization of local resources for protection of local environment Run by T.W.O. Clean Upper Dharamshala-Project
Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj
GENERAL INFORMATION
Public Audience with HH Karmapa LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed/Sat; 2:30pm For a private audience, appointments need to be Visit their craft shop, near made at least five days in advance. Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE: 98161 54611 All profits are for Tibetan Bus Schedule handicapped children. Leaving from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand unless stated otherwise. Dlx Phone: 01892 246366 buses can be booked at any travel Email: nyingtobling@hotmail.com agency in McLeod Ganj. Govt. buses Multi-Literacy Class can be booked at stand under McLo’s. Prices and times may vary! Tibetan Children’s Education Centre DELHI: Lcl 3x2, Rs292: 4:30pm, 5:30, 6pm, 7:30pm , AC, Rs707: 7pm TIBETAN, ENGLISH, FRENCH, CHINESE Dlx Bus, Rs.400: 8:pm LANGUAGE CLASSES Him Tour Dlx Bus, Rs400: 6:20pm Classes begin in July and are free to Tibetan nationals and on a donation PATHANKOT : Lcl 3x2, Rs75: 10am, basis for foreign students. 11am, 1:20pm, 2:50pm, 4pm Classes run Mon - Fri AMRITSAR: Lcl 3x2 from Dhasa, Rs125: 5am morning, afternoon and evening DEHRADUN: Lcl 3x2, Rs283: 8pm Saturday evenings - cultural discussions MANALI: Lcl 3x2, Rs208: 5pm Volunteer English and French Teachers SHIMLA : Lcl 3x2 from Dhmsla Rs186: Required on a Long / Short term basis 6am, 8:30am 7:45pm, 9:30pm These courses aim to increase literacy JAMMU: Lcl 3x2 from Dhmsla, Rs112: amongst Tibetans and promote global 9:45am communication Police Contact Information Contact: Jigmey / Sangay Chaya Niwas, Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj PHONE: 221483 Mobile: 98164 91733 /9816148042 LOCATION: Past St.John’s Church, on E-mail: childrens_treasure@yahoo.com road to Dharamsala in Cant area
Treat yourself & the children at Nyingtob Ling!
Website: www.tibchildren.org
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Government Phone Use this phone to call around the world at a cheaper rate. Fax, web, telegram and other services. LOCATION: BSNL Telecom Centre in Bus Stand HOURS: 10am-6pm, closed Sundays and holidays Post Office The McLeod Ganj post office is located on Jogiwara Road, near the market. HOURS: M-F 9:30am-1pm, 2pm-5pm, Sat 9:30am-12pm. Closed Sun. Parcels and moneyorders can be sent in the mornings only. PHONE: 221924 Tibet Museum The Tibet Museum is located in McLeod Ganj near the main temple and Namgyal Monastery gate. HOURS: Mon-Sun 10am-6pm (summer) Tue-Sun 9am-5pm (winter). Closed on Mondays. Tibet Photo Exhibition “50 years of struggle & oppression” The Tibet Photo Exhibition is located in McLeod Ganj on Jogiwar Road GuChu-Sum Hall. HOURS: 1st June 2005, 2-5pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
October 2005
services ASTROLOGY Tibetan Astrology Center LOCATION: Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Rd HOURS:
9am-6pm
Drungtso Tibetan Healing
Lhamo’s Kitchen LOCATION:
Bhagsu Rd (below Rangzen Restaurant) PHONE: 98164 68719 EMAIL: lhadontsering@yahoo.com HOURS: 8am-9pm
and Astrology Centre
Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes
LOCATION :
LOCATION:
Between Varuni & Pause Dwelling Guest House MOBILE: 94181 16627/ 94181-21519 PHONEL: 221031 EMAIL:drdrungtso@yahoo.com, tibastro@yahoo.com WEB : www.tibetanmedical-astro.org HOURS: 9am-7pm Mon-Sat
Yhongkow Gyal Tibetan Traditional Astrology Institute LOCATION: next to VolunteerTibet, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 01892 221181 EMAIL: yangkoja2004@yahoo.co.in HOURS: 9am-5pm
BUDDHIST PHILOSPHY Library of Tibetan Works and Archives LOCATION:
Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 222 467 HOURS: Classes from 9am-10am and 11am-12pm
Tushita Meditation Center LOCATION:
Above McLeod Ganj, in Dharamkot PHONE: 221 866. EMAIL : tushita_info@sancharnet.in WEB: www.tushita.info HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30am-11:30am and 12:30pm-4:00pm LIBRARY HOURS: 1:00pm–4:30pm
COMPUTERS LHA Computer School LOCATION:
LHA, Temple Rd PHONE: 220992 HOURS: Registration from 9am-11am M-F, See ad on page 3
COOKING Dancing Dragon Restaurant & Cooking Class LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant, in Hotel Ladies Venture PHONE: 98163 35572 EMAIL: HOURS: Seven days a week. Classes from 3pm -5pm
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near Post Office, Jogiwara Rd 94180 66184 EMAIL: sangyelw@yahoo.com HOURS: Classes from 11am-1pm & 5pm-7pm PHONE:
Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION:
LHA, Temple Rd PHONE: 220992 HOURS: Registration from 9am-11am M-F, See ad on page 3
Bhimsen Indian Cooking LOCATION:
Mount View Hotel Complex, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: HOURS: 10am-6pm
Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class
HEALTH SERVICES Tibetan Delek Hospital LOCATION:
Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 222 053/223 381 HOURS: Outpatient services: Mon-Sat 9am-1pm; Specialist clinics: 2pm4:30pm; Emergencies: 24-hours Dr. RPMC Hospital LOCATION: PHONE:
Dharamsala 22233
Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION:
between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 222 618 / 223 113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com
Primary Health Centre LOCATION: HOURS:
Jogiwara Rd main market 9:30am-4pm, Sunday closed
Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic
Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd 220833 EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com HOURS: Classes from 3pm-5pm
in front of His Holiness Temple – McLeod Ganj. PHONE: 221106 MOBILE: 98160 21106 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday afternoons
Yeshi’s Cooking Class
Maanav Health Clinic
LOCATION: PHONE:
LOCATION:
LOCATION:
Below Yongling School, near Univeral Yoga PHONE: 98163 14894 EMAIL: sisteryeshi@yahoo.com HOURS: Classes from 10am-12pm & 5pm - 7pm Monday to Saturday.
LOCATION:
Indian Cooking Class
PHONE:
LOCATION: Ansali Kapoor Behind Dr. Yeshi Dhonden Clinic, Jogewara Road PHONE: 221678 HOURS: Classes from 9am
DANCE & MUSIC Belly Dancing Classes LOCATION:
Bhagsu, Buddha Hall Classes from 12pm-1:30pm & every Sunday HOURS:
HOURS:
near Green Hotel, Bhagsu Rd 8am - 9pm
Dr. Tsomo Acupuncture & Massage Therapy LOCATION:
2nd floor of Mount View Hotel 94180 44176 EMAIL: dr_tsomo@yahoo.com HOURS: 9am - 6:30pm
Saini Homeo Clinic LOCATION:
near Bus Stand, in Bhagsu : 224 521 - 94180 86721, EMAIL: suneelsaini@yahoo.com WEB: www.sainihomoeopathy.com HOURS: 11am-3pm, 7pm-10pm PHONE
Dr. Bumchung LOCATION:
Hotel Shagri-La 01892 9816174890 EMAIL: bumtse@yahoo.com
Kumar School of Music
PHONE:
LOCATION:
Ayurvedic Rejuvination Center
Kunga Guest House Bhagsu Rad 9am to 6pm EMAIL: rkmehra@hotmail.com PHONE: 98163 37709 HOURS:
Tibetan Traditional Music Class with Tsewang Choeden LOCATION:
Kunga Guest House Bhagsu Rad HOURS: 9am to 6pm PHONE: 221180/98160 21180
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LOCATION:
Near Post Office : 981618121 EMAIL: pappugasay@ hotmail.com HOURS: 7am-9pm PHONE
Dr. C.Dolma-Tibetan Medicine LOCATION: Hotel Mount View (down stairs) Room #7 HOURS: 9am to 8pm PHONE: 98162 86758
October 2005
services LANGUAGES
Tibetan Universal Massage
Recommended by the Lonely Planet
Tibetan Language
LOCATION:
LOCATION: the Library, see Buddhist philosophy listing HOURS: Classes from 10am-11am
WEB :
Tibetan Language Class LOCATION:
LHA, Temple Rd 220992 HOURS: Registration from 9am-11am M-F, See ad on page 3 PHONE:
Hindi Classes with Sunil
EMAIL:
lobsang36dolmat@yahoo.com www.tibetanmassage.com
HOURS:
See ad on page 2
Dharani Kerala Ayurvedic Massage Centre LOCATION: PHONE:
Jogiwara Road 01892221678 or 98164 92049
Sundar: Swedish Massage Deep Tissue
LOCATION:
LOCATION:
PHONE:
PHONE:
near main pizzeria in Dharamkot 221942 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in
Pema Youdon: Tibetan Teacher LOCATION:
Jogiwara Rd, opp Post Office HOURS: 1pm-4pm or leave a message anytime at the French Cafe or Doritsung Bookshop
Yeshi’s Tibetan Class
Jogiwara Road
Yongling School, 94180 07630 EMAIL: rsundarmsc@yahoo.co.in HOURS: 11:30am-4pm & 6:30pm-8pm
Tibetan Massage LOCATION: PHONE:
Yellow Guest House, Bhagsu Rd Tashi & Tinlay: 9816156148
MEDITATION
LOCATION:
Tushita Meditation Center
PHONE:
LOCATION:
Below Yoongling School, 98163 14894 EMAIL: sisteryeshi@yahoo.com
Hindi Lessons with Kailash LOCATION:
Hotel India on Bhagsu Road 220063 / 9418161947 HOURS : come daily from 4-6 pm PHONE :
MARTIAL ARTS
Universal Yoga with Vijay LOCATION:
Room #5, Yongling School Buildin, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 94180 07630 EMAIL: vijayamar@yahoo.com WEB: www.vijaypoweryoga.com HOURS: office open 12:30 to 2pm only
Reiki & Meditation Centre LOCATION: Near Bhim Sen Indian Cooking Class, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 94182 21615 EMAIL: yugesh23@yahoo.co.in HOURS: 9am-5pm WEB: www.nirvanabudha.com
Care of Soul: Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center, Ayurveda LOCATION: behind LungTa restaurant, on Current Events. EMAIL: yogarishi2001@yahoo.co.in WEB: http://www.rishiyoga.com HOURS: 9am-8:30pm
In Dharamkot 221 866. EMAIL: tushita_info@sancharnet.in WEB: www.tushita.info HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30am-11:30am and 12:30pm-4:00pm LIBRARY HOURS: 1:00pm–4:30pm
Kailas School of Yoga & Kerala Ayurvedic Massage
Vipassana Meditation
Raj Yoga
PHONE:
LOCATION:
Bhagsu Road near Green Shop call Sivadas at 98161 50326 EMAIL: yoga@kerala.cc HOURS: office open from 1pm-2pm PHONE:
LOCATION:
LOCATION:
Jamyang Dorjee
PHONE:
PHONE:
LOCATION: Kyirong Dhuntso, TIPA Road 1150 #47 PHONE: 9418121518 or 221190 EMAIL: jamyangd2003@yahoo.com
Z Meditation
Buddha Hall Center for Yoga, Reiki and Healing
MASSAGE Traditional Thai & Ayurvedic Massage LOCATION:
Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Rd 221382 EMAIL : jite02@yahoo.com HOURS : 7am-9pm PHONE :
Zen Shiatsu Massage LOCATION :
Manu at Akant Lodge, Jogewara Road PHONE: 221593 HOURS : 11am-7pm
In Dharamkot 221 309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org HOURS: Mon-Sat 4pm-5pm
LOCATION:
Below Yongling School, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 01892 220621, 94181 44185 EMAIL: zmeditation@rediffmail.com WEB: www.zmeditation.com HOURS: 11.30am
Bhagsu Nag 221171 or 9817094108 EMAIL : usha_92@hotmail.com WEB: www.buddhahall.com HOURS: 9am-7pm PHONE:
Neo Yoga, Reiki, & Meditation
LOCATION:
LOCATION:
Bhagsu, Temple Rd PHONE: 220429 or 226420 EMAIL: ashomeditation@yahoo.com WEB: www.ashoayurvedahealing.com HOURS: 9am-6pm
YOGA & REIKI Shivananda Yoga
LOCATION:
PHONE
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LOCATION:
Asho Institute
Siby’s Kerala Traditional School of Ayurvedic Massage Bhagsu, Temple Rd PHONE : 220495, 98170 94124 EMAIL: sibi80@hotmail.com
Jogewara Road, 98161 96582 EMAIL: rajgasni@hotmail.com CONTACT: Ayurvedic Rejuvenation,
Bhagsu Nag 01892 220501/98163 18674 EMAIL: neoyoga@yahoo.com WEB: www.neoyoga.net HOURS: 9am-4pm PHONE:
Himalayan Lyengar Center LOCATION:
LOCATION:
Bhagsu Nag : 98170 13510 EMAIL : bhoomaaum@yahoo.com HOURS:
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Dharamkot, Bhagsu path info@hiyogacentre.com WEB: www.hiyogacentre.com HOURS: Info and reg Mon 1:30pm EMAIL:
October 2005
volunteer VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT Volunteer Tibet There are many ways to share your time and assist organizations in the Tibetan community! Even if you’re just passing through Dharamshala, there are still many ways to donate your time and make a difference. For a full list of volunteer opportunities please contact us. CONTACT: Tseyang HOURS: open 3pm - 5pm, Mon to Fri L O C AT I O N : Jogiwara Road opposite Akash Guest House MOBILE: 98161 91216 EMAIL : coordinator@volunteertibet.org WEB : www.volunteertibet.org
TUTORS & CLASS ASSISTANTS Tibet Charity – Multi Education Centre Many shy Tibetans would love to ask you questions about your life and experiences. If you can spare an hour for a few days and don’t mind sharing your life story with others, come to our school and help our students improve their conversational English. Advanced: 12pm-1pm, Beginners 4pm-5pm. HOURS : before 12pm, any weekday and talk to Jigme LOCATION : Jogiwara Road (Below Main Temple) PHONE : 221877 MOBILE : 9418106626 EMAIL : amdojigme@yahoo.com WEB: www.tibetmec.org
The Dogga School Teaching & class assistant opportunities available for English classes for various levels through the day and an Introduction to Computers course. CONTACT: Rinchen Tsering HOURS : Mon-Fri 10am-12:30pm and 2pm-6pm LOCATION : Next to Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Rd MOBILE: 98161 39358 EMAIL : rinchentsering@hotmail.com WEB : www.dogga.org
Gu-Chu-Sum
LONG-TERM OPPORTUNITIES
Established in 1991, provides support to ex-political prisoners and their families, and organizes campaigns working for their release. Gu-Chu-Sum School needs help with English conversation and tutoring from 6:30 pm to 7:30pm, Monday through Friday. LOCATION : Jogiwara Road, same building as the Lung-ta restaurant CONTACT : Sonam, the headmaster of the school, 10am - 5pm
LHA Computer teachers, English teachers, French teachers, and other opportunities are available at the LHA office. See the LHA advert on page 3 of this newsletter.
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES Contact Magazine Help to produce this local, grassroots, free community magazine. You can submit articles, proofread copy or work on graphic design. CONTACT: Lobsang at LHA MOBILE : 9816155523 EMAIL : contact@contamag.org
English Proof-Reader Needed A volunteer who is preferably staying at least two months is needed to contribute and correct articles written in English by Tibetan children for the Children’s Treasure in Exile monthly Magazine. Tibetan Children’s Education Center is looking for a volunteer web-designer to build a website for the organization.. CONTACT : Sangay Tashi / Jigmey MOBILE : 98164 91733 / 98161 48042 EMAIL :childrens_treasure@yahoo.com
Community Assistance Projects LHA fosters projects for the benefit and enrichment of the local community. Please see Jampa or Pema at the LHA office (see Map for location) to see if you could be of some assistance, especially if you are into event planning.
Reiki and Meditation Center Learn Reiki 1, 2 and Master. Meeting time from 9am-5pm. 3-day silent meditation retreat course given by an experienced teacher. Reiki Training Center, Upstair, Bhimsen Indian Cooking Class, Near Hotel Mount View,Jogiwara Rd, (2 min walk from Post Office, on left) - Map #10 Mobile: 94182 21615
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There is a wide-range of long term volunteer opportunities in and around McLeod Ganj. Organizations such as the Tibetan Welfare Office, the Tibetan Library, the Tibetan Women’s Association, the Tibet Institute of Performing Arts, Tibet Museum, the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics, various monasteries and nunneries, and offices of the Government-in-Exile frequently offer volunteer opportunities. Volunteers should be prepared to make a minimum time commitment of 3 months.
Aku Pema Performance Art Established in 2000, Aku Pema Performance Art group was organized in order to preserve traditional Tibetan art and culture in order to be passed on to future generations. The group also addresses multicultural themes. International visitors and volunteers are welcome to contribute and enjoy our cultural programs. We are seeking volunteers who are able to teach: group music and singing, English language (any level and age), dancing (any style!). LOCATION: Norbulingka Institute MOBILE: 9816315822 or 9816174922 EMAIL : appa2000@hotmail.com
DONATIONS Donations are the best way to help out if you are only around for a few days. Picking up a few supplies at a local store can be of great assistance to educational and social service organizations.
LHA Donation Center Accepting donations of all kinds: clothing, sleeping bags, books, School supplies, office supplies, medical supplies and financial assistance. All donations are clearly recorded and distributed to those in need, both Tibetan and Indian. LHA is a registered non-profit social service organization. See advert page 3
Tibetan Children’s Education Center Financial supports, Donating technological equipments/computer/printer/ scanner. Educational materials/books/ classic videos. Stationary items/pens/ papers/notebooks LOCATION: Sangay Tashi / Jigmey Chhaya Niwas, Jogiwara Road, Mcloed Ganj MOBILE : 9816491733 / 9816148042 EMAIL : childrens_treasure@yahoo.com
October 2005
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October 2005