Contact Magazine - November 2005 by Lha Charitable Trust

www.contactmag.org november 2005 8th year of publication free!!!

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Western Monastics in Tibetan Buddhist Robes by Kara Starzyk “I would have known not to have a tattoo if I grew up Tibetan.” Instead, this 22-year-old is from San Francisco in the United States. Although he grew up in a Western, non-Buddhist society, stepping-stones from his childhood led him to the decision to become a Tibetan-Buddhist monk. “When I was young, I wanted to be a hermit. I wanted to live in the woods. I thought, ‘Wouldn’t that be fantastic!’” said Losang Dragkpa. His decision did not surprise his family, and he was certain that his mother knew he would beLosang Dragkpa, an American Tibetan Buddhist come a monk. He smiles at monk, studies Buddhism and practices meditation at the memory of his family Tushita Meditation Centre, Oct. 21, 2005. teasing him as a child. How many times have you passed “They would hit pots and pans and make aTibetan-Buddhist monk or nun in up chants,” he said rolling his eyes. McLeod Ganj without looking twice? How many times have you passed a Western- Losang Dragkpa was not raised BudBuddhist monk or nun without looking dhist, but his mother’s liberal philosophies had a great impact on him. She twice? wanted her children to know that mateLosang Dragkpa stands out in the crowds rial things are worthless after death. of burgundy. Large holes remain from Losang Dragkpa recounts taking field the1inch disk that used to pierce his ears, trips to the graveyard where she reand his watch barely hides a tattoo of minded him that nothing is permanent. Ganesh (Hindu’s elephant-headed god of “She had a spiritual sense of Buddhism,” he said. His family often moved, which wisdom, kindeness, and prosperity). A monastic is not permitted to have tat- also helped him with detachment. toos, but Losang Dragkpa explains that Western monks are given a little leniency. He affirms that he was always interested

in Buddhism. In school, he read books about spiritual leaders and once did a report on Shakamuni. During a school lecture, the principal of his liberal arts high school reiterated the value of life. The statement You’re lucky that you survived because you’re one in a million sperm is still engrained in Losang Dragkpa’s memory. Years later, he uses this phrase himself while leading a meditation. After college, he was involved in radical politics and social work. However, he felt that his contribution was only a temporary solution to the problems of the world. During this same time, he was also helping a friend cope with HIV. “Seeing my friend deal with death and his realization about what was and wasn’t important in his life made me think about relationships with people,” said Losang Dragkpa. From this experience, he became aware that his own relationships were more valuable than material possessions. He decided that becoming a monk would be the most beneficial for himself and others. “If I am happy, then I can influence others to be happy,” he said. Even at his young age, Losang Dragkpa was certain he wanted to devote his life to being a monk. He did not mind taking vows that contrast with typical Western culture, such as abstaining from marriage or alcohol. He said having a family of his own was never important to him. As for alcohol, he had been a social-drinker, but it was easy to give up because he always felt “gross” after a night out. He was ordained August 2005, at Kopan continued on page 3

about contact...2

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non-profit...11

services...12,13

map...17

contact magazine Written By You, For You Phone: 9816155523 Email: contact@contactmag.org Web: www.contactmag.org

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

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 staff

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.

Sarah Lacy Clayton Hopkins Kara Starzyk Ramanathan.L Lobsang Rabsel

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 welcomes submissions of articles, stories, poems, graphics and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects.

contributors Margot Bigg printed at Imperial Printing Kotwali Bazar, Dharamshala Phone : 222 390

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.

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.

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continued from page 1

Monastery in Nepal. Then he came to Tushita Mediation Centre in Dharamsala to further his study and practice in Tibetan Buddhism. It would have been possible to continue living in America, but that is not necessarily an ideal environment. “Here I am not around constant advertisement influence,” he said to give one example of the many differences between the two cultures. Losang Dragkpa’s transition into a new culture has not been too difficult. He rubs his shaved head thinking about how he used to try to adapt Buddhism to Western culture, but now he’s trying to adapt Western culture to Buddhism. The irony is hardly apparent anymore for Jangchup Puntsok, who has been a monk for almost nine years. Even with his quiet demeanor, he cannot completely blend in with the other monks at the Temple. “Sometimes people approach me, like today at debate, some tourist recognized that I was Israeli, and they asked me some questions,” said Jangchup Puntsok.

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He left Israel in 1994 in search of something. During a 10-day course at Kopan Monastery in Nepal, his search ended with a life-changing realization. He knew he wanted to become a monk. “The instinct was there from the beginning. Our instincts arise from our past actions,” said Jangchup Puntsok. He waited three months to be ordained. His teacher advised him to be certain about his decision. During this time, he saved money, talked to his family, and considered the rest of his life. When he first told his family that he wanted to become a Tibetan monk, it was extremely difficult for them to understand. At the time of his decision, His Holiness the Dalai Lama was not well known in Israel, and little information about other religions was available. “Once they understood that I wasn’t joining a cult, they began to understand. They saw that I was happy and our relationship became better. Eventually, they accepted it,” he said. He doesn’t feel that he made a sacrifice to become a monk. While he does pause for

a second, he admits to not missing anything, not even his country’s food. “Now, whatever I need, I have,” he said with assurance. From his response, he does not seem the least bit tempted by Western influences. However, he realizes that becoming a monk may be more difficult for a Westerner due to past surroundings. He suggests the best way to adjust is to merge gradually into the culture. “If you are born into a Tibetan family, then you are raised with Buddhist values. In the West, we place an emphasis on attachment and materialism,” he said. A non-Tibetan monastic may face other challenges such as obtaining a VISA or the cost of living expenses. Jangchup Puntsok currently stays at the Buddhist Dialect School, which does not financially support non-Tibetans because it is sponsored by the Tibetan government. “Perhaps in my next life, I’ll be born into a Tibetan family,” he said. “Being a monk is only a tool to help someone dedicate their whole life to a spiritual

LHA

continued on page 4

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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TRADITIONAL REIKI

* English, French and Computer Teachers TEACHINGS * Computer Technicians * Medical * Artists * 9:00-11:00 * Yoga Instructors * Massage Therapists TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASSES * Many other volunteer opportunities available* * First Level: 5 days, 2 hrs per day, Mon-Fri *Individual instruction available Over 300 volunteers from countries around * Cost: Rs.2000/class Cost: Rs.100/hour the world serve with Lha annually. * Tibetan Momos, Thentuk, Bread Cost: Rs.150/class

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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!

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November 2005

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(Photo by Noah at Tushita) Robina Courtin, an Australian Buddhist nun, teaches an Introduction to Buddhism Course at Tushita Meditation Centre.

life. It gives you the freedom to be dedicated to prayer and to enhance your spiritual practice.” If a person decides to follow this path, it is important to have the proper conditions before becoming a monastic. Jangchup Puntsok’s advice is to find a teacher and a supportive environment to learn in. Justin Turner adheres to this advice and plans to be ordained in the near future. Turner didn’t consider becoming a monk until he came to India. However, his interest in Zen and Theravada Buddhism began as a teenager. He started studying Mahayana after meeting a group of Tibetan monks in the United States when he was 19 years old. During college, he was the president for Free Tibet, and he continues to have great compassion for the cause. Currently, Turner teaches English to monks in McLeod Ganj. With his bearded face and “hippy” appearance, he cannot be mistaken for a monk. However, Turner is prepared to shave this defining characteristic in the future. Hair is a part of one’s identity, but monastics shave their heads to symbolize the removal of attachment and individuality. Helping people is Turner’s main objective for becoming a monk. He said he has a fascination with the Medicine Buddha and wants to offer prayers and mantras to people in hospitals. Rinchen Chodhar, a Tibetan Monk, agrees, “It’s very important to realize your reason for becoming a monk.” Westerners’ desire to become monastics does not Contact Magazine

surprise him. “Being a monk helps you remove selfishness. Lay people need things,” he said. “I think the people who become monks and nuns were Buddhist in their past lives.” Rinchen Chodhar does suggest that a non-Tibetan monastic should study the Tibetan language in order to read Buddhist text and to understand lessons without the translation. He said it is very important to learn before you practice. Robina Courtin, a Tibetan Buddhist nun from Australia, repeatedly instructs nonTibetans to learn about Buddhism before simply believing. “Check it out! Go beyond the package. Rip it to pieces. Make it your own experience. Taste it, and then you can decide to dress as a 14th century Tibetan monk,” said Courtin. She had to make Buddhism real for herself before becoming a nun in 1978. Making a 2,500 year-old religion authentic for a feisty feminist was surely a long and inquisitive task. Still, she said it has been the right decision for her. Now, she uses her knowledge and compassion to help others with their spiritual needs. She’s the director of the Liberation Prison Project, which sends

books or letters to prisoners in the United States and Australia. She said that it doesn’t matter what country you are born into—people have a responsibility to help the people they have a connection with. Her advice for Westerners considering to become a monk or nun is this, “It’s said to be the ideal lifestyle to practice, but it doesn’t mean it’s right for one’s self. You have to be realistic,” she said. “Get rid of all the fantasies if you think that this will make your life easier. At first, it often can be very difficult. You still have your delusions. Just because you are a monk or nun, you still have your delusions. Down the road there’s a great benefit.”

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November 2005

Tibetan Tailoring Unraveled by Sarah Lacy I notice that I am in a different pocket of India, the moment I step off the bus in McLeod Ganj. It is rich in Indian culture and Tibetan identity. This is the first time in India that it isn’t a colourful sari catching my eye, but rather a group of Tibetan women in traditional dress. Their appearance is eloquent and unmistakably Tibetan. Curvaceous dresses, delicate blouses and colourfully woven aprons embellish their appearance and add complement to their warm faces. Standing beside the women are two young monks clad in Tibetan Buddhist robes. The rich maroon cloth drapes over and around their small frames. Watching these women and monks makes me curious about the symbolism of Tibetan dress and the people who make it. My interest leads to inquiry. I am sent to a meek, little shop that has roles of colourful fabric to meet Phuntsok Tsering Namsa Chenmo. He is known as Namsa Chenmo, which is directly translated into ‘Personal Tailor for His Holiness’. He has a charming persona despite his somewhat gruff exterior. His skillful hands adjust the monastic robe that

he’s wearing. I’m immediately pacified by his warm smile and wiliness to talk about his life as a Tibetan tailor. We wait for his daughter, Diki Werner, before we start the interview. They lead me into a small room with colours bouncing from the thangkas (religious paintings) hanging on the walls. Werner translates her father’s story from childhood. Phuntsok Tsering was 8-yearsold when he first picked up a needle and thread. Accelerated by a family linage of tailors, his skills flourished under their intrinsic guidance and training. By the age of 15, his knowledge in tailoring had ripened, and he was able to join his father who was one of the esteemed Tibetan government tailors in Lhasa. At that time, there were 150 government tailors. They worked collectively on all religious items for the government and big monasteries. The list included Norbulinka, Sera, Ganden, Tashi Lhunpo and Drepung Monastery. The job of a government tailor occasionally entailed constructing personal items for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and other high Lamas. Women tailors also assisted in the huge tasks. However, the

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women worked from an outside location because rules in Buddhism restricted women from working within a monastery. Phuntsok Tsering’s life as a government tailor changed in 1959 when the Dalai Lama went into exile. Rapid deterioration of civil obedience occurred in reaction to the Chinese occupation. Like so many outraged Tibetans, Phuntsok Tsering took up arms with the Tibetan Freedom Fighters. After a year of fighting, he made the difficult decision to leave his family and homeland and seek refuge in India. After a short time in exile, he was appointed to the position of personal tailor for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In honour of this title, his name was changed to Namso Chenmo. Along with this honour came the responsibility of work that was once shared by 150 tailors, as well as re-establishing their traditional practices. He now devotes his skills to tailoring His Holiness’s personal robes and ceremonial headpieces. He also tailors

YOGA INSTRUCTOR TRAINING IS ALSO GIVEN. (35% OF PROFIT GOES TO TIBETAN SCHOOL ,POOR PEOPLE, & ANIMALS)

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(Graphics by Tseten) This illustation shows a Tibetan monastic robe, which has remained unchanged for centuries.

continued on page 6

November 2005

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graduated under his training. After Namso Chenmo shares his experiences and expertise, I ask him about Tibetan Buddhist robes and women’s dress. As both a tailor and monk, he expresses great pride and satisfaction in the knowledge that every aspect of a Tibetan monk’s habit is symbolic of a particular part of Buddhist doctrine. Every detail, from the colours to the direction of the seams and stitching, is linked to a tradition that goes back as far as 2500 years, when Buddhism emerged in India. Since this time, much of Tibetan dress has remained unchanged. However, the material needed to be altered due to the climate in exile. Namso Chenmo explains that this is the sole impetus for changing the religious garb. For example, in Tibet, monastic robes were made of sheep’s wool, but in India they are made of cotton. He then explains that the most extreme changes have occurred in women’s wear.

This illustration depicts the traditional style of women’s dress worn in central Tibet.

thangkas and altar coverings. He makes certain that all religious items are made with the same efficiency and precision for the monasteries and the Tibetan government in exile as it was in Lhasa. When the Dalai Lama is invited to speak in India or abroad, it is Namso Chenmo’s responsibility to ensure that traditional standards set by Tibetan customs are adhered to. He preserves traditional practices by passing on his knowledge to the next generation of Tibetan tailors. Currently he teaches 27 students and over the years, more than 200 students have

In Tibet the woman’s chupa or dress had been a skirt and coat combination tied in a wrap. It was loose fitting, bulky and made from a thick fabric. This traditional style can be seen on some older Tibetan women living in McLeod Ganj. These days, the more popular chupa is a long, slim-fitted dress also in the wrap style. It is usually made from cotton and is worn over a lightweight blouse with the collar hanging in a delicate ‘V’ shape below the neck. The main accessory that has remained unchanged is the colourfully woven pangden or apron that denotes marital status. Namso Chenmo denies that Indian dress has influenced the chupa, but he does acknowledge that the slimming waistline has been an influence from the west. He believes that the chupa’s popularity

among both western and Tibetan women is strong evidence to suggest that it will continue to be worn in the future. For my next question, I ask why Tibetan women have preserved traditional dress more than men. Both father and daughter laugh, but Werner’s explains without consultation. She describes the men’s traditional dress the same as the women’s: thick, bulky and suitable only for the cool climate and mountainous terrain of Tibet. Namso Chenmo detects my confusion, as I ask why men’s wear has not yet been adapted to India’s climate. He then excitedly reveals his innovations to Tibetan men’s wear. These new designs aim to infuse the traditional style with practicality and adaptability for the next generation of Tibetan men in India. It is with pride that his daughter explains how he is the first Tibetan tailor to attempt this. Phuntsok Tsering Namso Chenmo has been the Dalai Lama’s personal tailor for the past 45 years. After making inroads into the details of his craft, I make my last inquiry about his feelings towards being His Holiness’s personal tailor. He responds with a self-content smile and says, “Proud, always proud.” Special thanks to Diki Werner for her diligent translating.

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 REIKI " REFLEXOLOGY THAI MASSAGE " BREATHWORK Qualified Female Western Therapists

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Tuesday – Saturday, 1-6 pm By appointment and drop in. All proceeds donated to Tong-Len

We are now OPEN from 9:30am-10pm Contact Samdup (Mobile: 9816328167)

November 2005

Therapy Through Art by Kara Starzyk

Tibetan children expresses their feelings of exile through art. Since arriving at the Reception Center, seven year-old Pasang has continuously drawn the same picture: mountains, a house and a road. Her teachers asked her questions about the simple drawing, encouraging her to add to it. But the depiction of her journey from Tibet remained

Once the children arrive in Dharamsala, their stay at the Reception Center is usually short. Here they make the difficult transition from life in Tibet. Art Refuge uses art therapy, games, songs, and endless encouragement to help the children. The smiles on the children’s faces and in their pictures confirm that it’s helping. “Art gives kids an outlet to express their emotions,” said Stirling, who has been working with the young refugees for six months. She left America to apply her BA in Human Services and Art Therapy towards helping the Tibetan community. “When I arrived, the previous volunteer told me that basically, just giving the kids love is our job,” she said.

Stirling Davenport and Holly Stone volunteer for Art Refuge at the Reception Center.

mountains, a house, and a road. Then, during her fourth month of art therapy, she drew mountains, a house, a road and a car. Her teachers were ecstatic about the new image. They praised her creativity and asked, “Who is driving the car? Where is it going?” The young artist was not ready to reveal the meaning behind her work. The following week, she was given the same assignment. She drew the routine scene, but this time it included two people. In her own time, she made the most important addition to the drawing. She explained that the mountains and house were her home in Tibet, and the car on the road took her and her mother to Nepal. “Today she had a breakthrough,” said Stirling Davenport, a volunteer for Art Refuge. Art Refuge was founded by Friends of Tibetan Women’s Association. The program uses artistic activities to help Tibetan children cope with their emotions and experiences in exile. The busiest time for the Reception Center is November through January. Each year during this period, nearly 1,000 children arrive in Nepal before continuing on to India. This time corresponds with winter in Tibet, when refugees are less likely to be discovered by Chinese patrols. Unfortunately, the number of patrols in Tibet had increased because of China’s celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Tibetan Autonomy Region. Thus, the number of children participating in Art Refuge has declined since September. Contact Magazine

In addition to love, Art Refuge helps children deal with the anger, depression, and trauma that come from the long journey and leaving their families behind. “Stories of their journey are unbelievable,” says Stirling as she points to a wall covered in the children’s pictures. A painting of a grazing yak under the Tibetan flag hangs beside a picture of the 11th Panchen Lama being held at gunpoint by two Chinese soldiers. The true value of the pictures is not always mea-

Children’s drawings of Tibet and their journey into exile are on display in the Reception Center.

A young child makes a paper plane in Art Refuge.

ative project encourages the children to share their feelings with each other. Art is one of the therapeutic tools, while games and activities allow them to interact with other children for four hours a day. Morning activities focus on singing and crafts. After lunch, the children play games or go to the playground. Throughout the day, the coordinators also have the children participate in activities that incorporate Tibetan culture, such as designing mandalas (Buddhist artistic diagrams) and singing traditional songs. The children also learn Tibetan dance, but the center lacks the resources to afford chupas (traditional Tibetan dress) or costumes. Activities that begin as art projects quickly become games as well; for example, when the children create paper airplanes, races soon follow. Their frostbitten cheeks glow brighter with joy. Ama Adhe praises the children and her everpresent smile is a true comfort to the children. She lives at the Reception Center and oversees the Art Refuge Program. “She is so encouraging and strong,” said Stirling. Lhamo, who also works at the Reception Center, encourages the struggling kids. She is sympathetic to their feelings because she arrived in McLeod Ganj when she was 19 years old. She could not even write her name before studying Tibetan and English at the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV). “What I like most about this job is that I can understand their problems. I was like these kids,” said Lhamo.

sured by artistic ability. A sketch of a stick figure Buddha, a water painting of snowcapped mountains, and an image of a bleeding man with the words, “Say No to 2008 Olympics in China” display that the message is more important than the medium.

Once the children are ready to leave the Reception Center, they have a meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama before being placed in a school. Their short stay at the Reception Center is only the beginning of their recovery. Hopefully painting a picture of their past will help the children see a more colorful future.

Like Pasang, teachers ask children to draw a memory of Tibet or a picture of their journey. The children’s stories are then written on the back of their artwork. This cre-

To find out about donating money, supplies, or volunteering, please contact pezhifox@ukonline.co.uk or visit the Art Refuge Website at www.artrefuge.org.

November 2005

Empowerment through employment thanks to The Tibetan Unemployment Co-operative Society By Margot Bigg operative Society was formed to help resolve this problem. The Society’s employment programmes have provided food and shelter for around forty local families. Without support from the Society, many families would not have been able to maintain the basic standards of living that many of us take for granted.

teries and can provide an inside view to some of the many local attractions in McLeod Ganj. When stopping at the shop, you will have the opportunity to chat with Mr Jumpa, the Society’s manager. He can inform you about current projects and give you a tour of the Society’s bead

The Society also hires unemployed youth to find jobs for others. Through its empowering employment programme, the society inadvertently helps these young employees gain the self-esteem necessary for building successful adult lives. Jampa & employee at the Temple rd shop

Unemployment is a severe problem that the Tibetan population is currently facing in India. For many Tibetans in the McLeod Ganj going to bed on an empty stomach is a harsh reality. There are not enough local jobs available to meet employment demands, which leaves many potential labourers unable to meet economic needs. Fortunately, the Tibetan unemployment rate has not gone unnoticed. In November 2003, the Tibetan Unemployment Co-

There are many ways locals and tourists can support the Society. The Society has a shop on Temple Road where they sell an assortment of colourful beads, crafted by Society members. The shop also stocks a variety of traditional Tibetan clothing, delicious, preservative-free peanut butter, and reusable cloth shopping bags. Parcel packing is offered as an additional service. The staff will happily arrange local guides to show tourists the Tibetan institutions and monas-

Guru Shruti Prakash

NATURAL HEALING, SOUL REALIZATION & MYSTERIES EXPERIENCE CENTRE Here you can have a session in reading the lines of your palm (Palmistry) Palm Reading, Rebirthing, Chakra (Energy Centers) Energy Healing, Shiatsu Acupressure - Yogik Massage,Yoga, Meditation, Tantra Therapy, Inner Body Cleansing with Water Techniques, Body Movements Therapy, Magnetotherapy etc.

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(Learning Courses are also available) You can get your palm read & know your talents, qualities, relations, professional guidance, solutions to problems, direction of life, natural tendencies of your mind, psychological structure, suggestions for happier life etc. AND/OR through Natural Healing you can recover from physical and 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, 60 meters from main square, Upstairs, First floor, main market, Jogiwara Road, in the small street opposite to Prayer Wheels. McLeod Ganj. Map # 7

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Tibetan tailor at work

factory. Mr Jumpa can also provide information about many volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are needed to share skills and project ideas and organise fundraising activities in McLeod Ganj or abroad. Another way to offer support, while deepening your knowledge of Tibetan culture, is by attending one of the Society’s weekly performances. Performances are held every Sunday from 67pm at Yongling School, just off of Temple Road. Tibetan performing arts provides a unique opportunity to experience Tibetan culture. For further information about the Society’s products, performances, and volunteer opportunities, stop by the Office of the Tibetan Unemployment Cooperative Society, located on Temple Road, opposite the Reception Centre. Your support will help bring employment to local Tibetans with self-sufficient means. November 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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the green shop

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.

November 2005

services ASTROLOGY Drungtso Tibetan Healing and Astrology Centre 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

Lhamo’s Kitchen LOCATION:

Bhagsu Rd (below Rangzen Restaurant) PHONE: 98164 68719 EMAIL: lhadontsering@yahoo.com HOURS: 8am-9pm

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes LOCATION:

near Post Office, Jogiwara Rd 94180 66184 EMAIL: sangyelw@yahoo.com HOURS: Classes from 11am-1pm & 5pm-7pm PHONE:

Bhimsen Indian Cooking LOCATION :

Mount View Hotel Complex, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 10am-6pm

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

Yeshi’s Cooking Class

Indian Cooking Class

LOCATION:

Below Yongling School, near Univeral Yoga PHONE: 98163 14894 EMAIL: sisteryeshi@yahoo.com HOURS: Classes from 10am-12pm & 5pm - 7pm Monday to Saturday. Ansali Kapoor Behind Dr. Yeshi Dhonden Clinic, Jogewara Road PHONE: 221678 HOURS: Classes from 9am

LOCATION: PHONE:

Dharamsala 22233

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION:

between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 222 618 / 223 113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com

LOCATION:

HOURS:

Jogiwara Rd main market 9:30am-4pm, Sunday closed

Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic LOCATION:

in front of His Holiness Temple – McLeod Ganj. PHONE: 221106 MOBILE: 98160 21106 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday afternoons

Maanav Health Clinic LOCATION: HOURS:

near Green Hotel, Bhagsu Rd 8am - 9pm

Dr. Tsomo Acupuncture & Massage Therapy 2nd floor of Mount View Hotel 94180 44176 EMAIL: dr_tsomo@yahoo.com HOURS: 9am - 6:30pm PHONE:

Barahman House, Jogewara

Road PHONE:

HOURS:

LOCATION:

Barahman Kitchen

220298/98162 91119 Classes from 9am-8pm

Saini Homeo Clinic LOCATION:

DANCE & MUSIC

LOCATION:

Dancing Dragon Restaurant & Cooking Class

Dr. RPMC Hospital

LOCATION:

Tushita Meditation Center

COOKING

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

Primary Health Centre

Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd 220833 EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com HOURS: Classes from 3pm-5pm LOCATION:

Bhagsu Road, ZKL monastery (infront of Last Chance Tea Shop) HOURS: Mon-Friday: 3:00pm-5:00pm Rinpoche is teaching each week a different subject.

LOCATION:

PHONE:

Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 222 467 HOURS: Classes from 9am-10am and 11am-12pm

Chamtrul Lobsang Gyatso Rinpoche’s Teaching

Tibetan Delek Hospital

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

HEALTH SERVICES

Belly Dancing Classes LOCATION:

Bhagsu, Buddha Hall Classes from 12pm-1:30pm & every Sunday HOURS:

Kumar School of Music

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 PHONE:

Sitar Tabla, Vocal & Harmomium LOCATION: Kunga Guest House Bhagsu Rad HOURS: 9am to 6pm EMAIL: rkmehra@hotmail.com PHONE: 9418223969

Ayurvedic Rejuvination Center

Tibetan Traditional Music Class with Tsewang Choeden

Dr. C.Dolma-Tibetan Medicine

Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION:

LOCATION:

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant, in Hotel Ladies Venture PHONE: 98163 35572 HOURS: Seven days a week. Classes from 3pm -5pm

LHA, Temple Rd PHONE: 220992 HOURS: Registration from 9am-11am

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Kunga Guest House Bhagsu Rad HOURS: 9am to 6pm PHONE: 221180/98160 21180

LOCATION:

Near Post Office : 981618121 EMAIL: pappugasay@ hotmail.com HOURS: 7am-9pm PHONE

LOCATION: Hotel Mount View (down stairs) Room #7 HOURS: 9am to 8pm PHONE: 98162 86758

November 2005

services LANGUAGES

Tibetan Universal Massage LOCATION:

LOCATION:

EMAIL:

the Library, see Buddhist philosophy listing HOURS: Classes from 10am-11am

Tibetan Language Class LOCATION:

LHA, Temple Rd 220992 Registration from 9am-11am M-F, See ad on page 3

PHONE: HOURS:

Learn Hindi with Surinder

Jogiwara Road

lobsang36dolmat@yahoo.com WEB : 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: Hotel Himalayan Paradise Jogewara Road PHONE: 220660/98164 91707 EMAIL: surinderlala@yahoo.co.in

LOCATION:

Pema Youdon: Tibetan Teacher

Tibetan Massage

LOCATION:

Jogiwara Rd, opp Post Office HOURS: 1pm-4pm or leave a message anytime at the French Cafe or Doritsung Bookshop

Yongling School, 94180 07630 EMAIL: rsundarmsc@yahoo.co.in HOURS: 11:30am-4pm & 6:30pm-8pm PHONE:

LOCATION: PHONE:

Yellow Guest House, Bhagsu Rd Tashi & Tinlay: 9816156148

MEDITATION

Yeshi’s Tibetan Class

Tushita Meditation Center

LOCATION:

PHONE:

Below Yoongling School, 98163 14894 EMAIL: sisteryeshi@yahoo.com

Hindi Lessons with Kailash LOCATION:

Hotel India on Bhagsu Road PHONE : 220063 / 9418161947 HOURS : come daily from 4-6 pm

MARTIAL ARTS Jamyang Dorjee LOCATION:

Kyirong Dhuntso, TIPA Road 1150 #47 PHONE: 9418121518 or 221190 EMAIL: jamyangd2003@yahoo.com

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

YOGA & REIKI

Recommended by the Lonely Planet

Tibetan Language

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

Vipassana Meditation LOCATION:

In Dharamkot 221 309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org HOURS: Mon-Sat 4pm-5pm PHONE:

Z Meditation LOCATION:

Below Yongling School, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 01892 220621, 94181 44185 EMAIL: zmeditation@rediffmail.com WEB: www.zmeditation.com HOURS: 11.30am

Asho Institute LOCATION:

Bhagsu, Temple Rd 220429 or 226420 EMAIL: ashomeditation@yahoo.com WEB: www.ashoayurvedahealing.com HOURS: 9am-6pm PHONE:

Universal Yoga with Vijay LOCATION:

Room #5, Yongling School Buildin, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 94182 91929 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

Kailas School of Yoga & Kerala Ayurvedic Massage LOCATION:

Bhagsu Road near Green Shop call Sivadas at 98161 50326 EMAIL: yoga@kerala.cc HOURS: office open from 1pm-2pm PHONE:

Raj Yoga LOCATION:

Jogewara Road, 98161 96582 EMAIL: rajgasni@hotmail.com CONTACT: Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, PHONE:

Buddha Hall Center for Yoga, Reiki and Healing LOCATION:

Bhagsu Nag 221171 or 9817094108 EMAIL: usha_92@hotmail.com WEB: www.buddhahall.com HOURS: 9am-7pm PHONE:

Shivananda Yoga LOCATION:

Bhagsu Nag : 98170 13510 EMAIL: bhoomaaum@yahoo.com PHONE

Siby’s Kerala Traditional School of Ayurvedic Massage LOCATION:

Bhagsu, Temple Rd

PHONE : 220495, 98170 94124 EMAIL: sibi80@hotmail.com

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November 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

November 2005

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November 2005

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November 2005

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November 2005