Contact May 2013 by Lha Charitable Trust

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

www.contactmagazine.net 31 May 2013 Volume: XV Issue: 5

contact Magazine A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information

Old Lhasa ‘on the Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay Visits the verge of destruction’ United States by Palden Choeden and Miranda Hall Early this month, Beijing-based Tibetan writer Woeser protested online against commercial developments in the heart of the Old City of Lhasa, parts of which date back to the 7th century, describing the project as ‘an unpardonable and incalculable crime against the ancient city of Lhasa’s landscape, human culture and environment’. The post quickly went viral on Weibo before being taken down by censors. The Exile Tibetan Administration (CTA) has since expressed its own deep concern and over 1000 people, including 100 international scholars in fields of Tibetan studies, have signed a petition addressed to Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, and the directorgeneral of UNESCO, Irina Bukova, calling for a halt to the destruction and claiming that the project will ‘deprive Tibetans and scholars of Tibet alike of a living connection to the Tibetan past’. The project, Barkhor Mall, will cover an area of 150,000 sq metres and includes ‘thoroughly clearing’ the circumambulation path around

Construction in Lhasa Photo: Woeser Continued on page 4

by Osmar Fuentes Traveling to Washington DC from May 6 to 10, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay visited the United States for the third time since assuming political leadership of the Tibetan Governmentin-Exile. Special Advisor Kaydor Aukatsang and Ngawang Yonten from the Office of Tibet in New York accompanied him as he met such dignitaries and officials as the Chairman of the East Asian and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee, Senator Ben Cardin, and Senator John McCain. Other influential meetings included Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, senior staff of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and a lunch with 35 Congressional staff members of the House of Representatives. Sikyong was kindly received as he sought support from US Congress and explained the significance of the Tibetan issue. Along with visiting Congress, Sikyong was invited to The Council on Foreign Relations’ May 8 event, ‘A Conversation with Sikyong Lobsang Sangay.’ According to the Central Tibetan Administration, ‘Sikyong spoke on his election, responsibilities, devolution of political power from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetan democracy and most importantly the current critical situation inside Tibet.’ He went on to attend a private dinner hosted by The Foreign Policy Initiative

and a meeting with representatives from Amnesty International, Reporters Without Borders, Project 2049 and Freedom House at the office of the International Campaign for Tibet on May 8. Alongside groups like Human Rights Watch and the National Endowment for Democracy, he spoke of the human rights abuses occurring in Tibet and potential avenues for ending the oppression of his people. The trip was widely publicised

Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay Photo: tibet.net

through multiple US media outlets, such as the DC based publication, The Hill, and the non-profit American cable television network, C-Span. After meeting Congress, think tanks, and media, The Sikyong and his advisors held meetings with officials of the Obama Administration. He went on to host an event for the Tibetan community living in the US. After leaving the US on May 10, he concluded his international tour by attending the fifth annual Oslo Freedom Forum in Norway and meeting with members of the Swedish Parliament. The Sikyong returned to Dharamsala on May 20.

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health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.org

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Contact Magazine is a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust. It contains Tibetan issues, international news and local information that aspires to bring the West and East together in a meaningful and beneficial way. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamsala area and (in the future) in Delhi, Rishikesh, Manali, Goa, and various diplomatic missions to India. Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail! Guidelines for submission: Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news 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 20th of each month. 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 via email to editor@contactmagazine.net Please Note: The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff.

Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, If you would like to sponsor and language resources, computer Contact please get in touch and medical supplies, as well as any If you would like to contact Contact, with us. This other useful items. call Lobsang Rabsel at 981-615-5523 space could be Monetary donations are extremely or the Lha office at Temple Road (ph. used to present helpful and are greatly appreciated, 01892-220992). All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to your profile, large or small.

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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ། Contact Magazine Managing Director Ngawang Rabgyal Editor Jenny James

Lha’s 6th and 7th Clean Water Project

Nearly 1,200 Tibetan refugees have been provided with safe drinking water in the past 10 days. Lha staff and volunteers recently returned from spending the weekend of May 4 in the Bir Tibetan settlement, located three hours away from Dharamsala, where

Sub Editor Tenzin Younten Catherina Leipold Assistant Editor Palden Choedon Layout Design Tamdin Yangzom Circulation Manager Lobsang Rabsel Published by Lha Charitable Trust Web: www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net Phone: 91(0)1892-220992 Email: editor@contactmagazine.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ contactnews Twitter: https://twitter.com/ CONTACTmagTibet Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamsala Phone: 222390

they were successful in installing our sixth drinking water filtration unit. It was placed at the Central Tibetan Administration’s (CTA) Sambhota Tibet School in Bir/Chuatra. The unit was located adjacent to the kitchen which serves the 315 students who board there because they live in such remote settlements. A week later, on Monday, May 14, Lha successfully installed our seventh filtration unit in the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) School in

lower Dharamshala. Lha is still re-evaluating potential locations of our last two funded filtration units which will soon be installed in a school or monastery. We plan to have these last two units installed before the monsoon season starts in earnest. With their installation, the initial Lha Safe Drinking Water Project will have been completed. The filtration installations, which can process one hundred litres of pure drinking water per hour, and include a five hundred litre, stainless steel storage tank, cost $2,350 US per unit. We continue to solicit donations, large and small, to continue this lifesaving work.

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Long- or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha • English conversation Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm • English, French, and Chinese teachers & tutors • Computer teachers • Web designers and IT professionals • Editor, Journalists & writers • Environmental professionals • Medical & healthcare professionals • Fundraisers & grant writers • Project professionals • Chefs & cooks • Human rights & legal professionals • Personal Assistant (PA) • And much more! Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organization. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. Contact Magazine

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RECEPTION & ORIENTATION Our services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamsala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India There is a discount for people travelling together. *All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha community social work projects. For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P. (Mon-Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm & 1:00-5:00pm) office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992 www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net www.tibetnature.net MAY 2013

news & issues Continued from page 1

Old Lhasa ‘on the verge of destruction’

Jokhang, Tibet’s holiest shrine. Irreplaceable structures are being destroyed to create what seems to be a commercialised tourist village. ‘Lhasa doesn’t exist only for tourists’ Woeser told the South China Morning Post. ‘There are real people who live here and it’s also a religious place. You can’t just turn it into a Sanlitun village.’ Sanlitun village is a high-end popular

by James Connell Diplomatic fray over western governments choosing to meet His Holiness the Dalai Lama without prior consent from Beijing has once again come to the fore– this time regarding the meeting last year between His Holiness, British Prime Minister David Cameron, and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. According to a Telegraph article earlier this month, China has demanded an apology from the UK government for meeting the Dalai Lama without first consulting Beijing, although sources for the UK government have stated that China was informed, and that the meeting was deliberately arranged to take place at St Paul’s Cathedral to emphasise the UK’s understanding of His Holiness as a religious, rather than political, leader.

shopping destination in Beijing. This destruction comes hand-inhand with the forced displacement of large numbers of local Tibetans from their homes to the suburbs of Lhasa. ‘Those households that move quickly can get a subsidy of between 20,000 and 30,000 RMB. Not moving will be a political problem.’ Woeser writes. The scholars’ petition and the CTA have both called upon UNESCO and

Diplomatic Fray

in internal affairs’. Britain has in the past spoken of its recognition of Tibet as a ‘part of China’, yet such assurances seem to do little to lessen Beijing’s ire any time an unsanctioned meeting takes place – the consequences usually involving reprimand and short shrift in diplomatic relations. The UK government has appeared to have further upset the apple cart on this occasion by rejecting calls for an apology, and emphasising the sovereign right of UK government officials to meet whomever they see fit: His Holiness, Downing Street has stated, is and always has been, welcome in Britain. Fears have been aired that Beijing’s warnings of ‘serious consequences’ might result in more tangible troubles for the UK. Perhaps predictably, it is economics - the floundering European economy - that drives much of this fear. For the UK, The Telegraph notes that China’s investment totals some £8billion, and is crucial for a wave of significant infrastructural projects taking place in the country at present. For a number of commentators the veiled threats issued by Beijing to the UK government reflect Chinese awareness of the advantage they The Dalai Lama with British Prime Minister hold, and have raised concerns that David Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Britain’s moral intransigence may Nick Clegg jeopardise economic relations with Photo: Clifford Shirley the superpower. China considers His Holiness as The global economic climate representing a subversive minority of has meant that foreign governments Tibetans, and condemns his meeting depending on Chinese investment foreign heads of state as ‘interference may simply not be able to afford Contact Magazine

the Chinese authorities to dispatch independent investigative teams to Lhasa. The CTA renewed its calls for UNESCO to include the Jokhang and Barkhor area in the World Heritage List, while the petition asked that UNESCO provide ‘a clear-cut plan outlining what needs to be done immediately to preserve the Old City of Lhasa, to halt the current destruction.’

upsetting her. This may undermine their capacity to comment on human rights issues and demonstrates the widespread impact the economic maelstrom has had for global, political and economic relations.

Edward Lucas Photo:Wikipedia

Beijing’s insistence on ‘vetting’ meetings between state heads and the Dalai Lama reflects awareness that China’s economic foothold in many democracies, alongside fear in the west of further collapse, can be used for effectively influencing the policy of foreign governments. As Edward Lucas, International Editor for the Economist has recently commented, Chinese ‘bullying’ has meant that it is growing increasingly difficult for Tibetan leaders to get meetings when they travel in Europe and the US. In Britain, despite the standoff, it would appear that Chinese investments have not been affected, and it is worth bearing in mind that Continued on page 6 MAY 2013

news & issues

US Provision for 5,000 Visas for Tibetan Refugees by Osmar Fuentes US lawmakers have approved a provision to allow 5,000 visas for Tibetan refugees living in Nepal and India to enter America over the next three years. This provision comes as an amendment to a larger immigration bill reform currently being considered within Congress. Senator Dianne Feinstein made the proposal, supported by Senator Chuck Schumer and Chairman Patrick Leahy, citing the terrible treatment of Tibetans at the hands of the Chinese authorities, the increase in self-immolations, and the mounting pressures on Tibetan resettlement facilities. However, the Tibetan visa provision will come into effect only after the wider immigration bill is passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives and becomes law – a process which can take months. Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay extended warm thanks for this

support. ‘This provision will provide a great boost to Tibetans….[and] provides a timely support for Tibetans as they struggle against a new wave of repressive Chinese policies,’ said The Sikyong. ‘[It] represents a tangible continuation of the longstanding and bipartisan support of the United States for Tibet.’

Dianne Feinstein Photo: Wikipedia

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan leadership see immigration programmes such as these as a means of achieving their vision of a prosperous diaspora and as a key to helping to preserve the Tibetan culture and well being of its people in exile. This US provision for displaced Tibetans is similar to one made under the Immigration Act of 1990 when the US Congress approved 1,000 visas for refugees. It is also comparable to the Canadian immigration program approved in 2010, which allowed 1,000 Tibetan refugees to migrate to Canada from the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Just last week, Home Kalon Dolma Gyari visited Tibetan settlements in northeastern India, where she met the first group of 204 prospective immigrants under this Canada Resettlement Project. They are expected to begin migrating to Canada in July.

Chinese Premier visits India by Shraddha Gupta Chinese Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to India this month came at a crucial time following the incursion on April 15 of Chinese troops into India across the de facto border, and their pitched camp in the Depsang Valley in the Ladakh region of eastern Kashmir– timed a month after China’s new President Xi Jinping came to office.

Photo: blogs.wsj.com

While talks for ‘mutual interest and concern’ proceed between the two nations, the border disagreement (which led to a bloody war in 1962) still remains a sensitive issue and an obstacle to closer ties. Reports claim Contact Magazine

that there is a proposal to freeze troop levels in the disputed border region as the two countries make efforts to settle the issue. After wide ranging discussions between both the Prime Ministers, Li said ‘Both the Prime Minister and I believe that there are far more shared interests between China and India than the differences we have. Without the common development of China and India, Asia won’t become strong and the world won’t become a better place.’ In a joint statement, the two nations pledged to take measures to address the issue of the imbalance in trade, currently around $30 billion, and hoping to boost the rising bilateral trade from its current $76 billion, to $100 billion by 2015. Another concern which remains unsolved is China occupying 38,000 square kilometers of territory in the Aksai Chin plateau in the western Himalayas, as well as China’s claims to around 90,000 square kilometers in 5

India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, with no signs of further improvement. The meeting also led into discussions of the presence in India of Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the Tibetan government-in-exile, with the Chinese Premier saying that this is a constant irritant to China. The Indian government made it very clear that there can be no discussion on His Holiness’s position as an honoured guest of the country. Three Tibetans were detained for staging a protest against Li in Delhi where he is presently staying. They were members and staff of the Students for a Free Tibet. One protestor, Tashi, unfurled a 20foot-long banner reading, “CHINA OUT OF TIBET, CHINA OUT OF INDIA, LI KEQIANG: TIBET WILL BE FREE!” and raised slogans calling for “Free Tibet’ and “Tibet’s Independence, India’s Security.” MAY 2013

news & issues

Diplomatic Fray

Continued from page 4

China’s growth also depends on strong relations with foreign partners. Giving in to China for fear of reprisals may be unnecessary, and demands of the type issued by Beijing may reflect more an opportunistic exploitation of western anxieties than prefiguring any form of real sanctions. Either way, states should be cautious

of the current trend in appeasing China. Edward Lucas, in his recent article ‘The Tibetan Test’, states that it is crucial now more than ever that countries stand up to such pressure and make it clear that they will openly and publicly meet figures such as the Dalai Lama if they so choose. Lucas argues that whilst China might be

able to individually belittle states into concession, it will be very difficult to punish everyone if states collectively refuse to yield. Despite her growing power and influence in political, economic and cultural spheres, China also depends on productive and positive relations with the rest of the world.

French Delegation visits Dharamshala

by Alfredo Aguirre A four-member French senate delegation, led by Senator JeanFrancois Humbert of the Union for Popular Movement Party, recently made a week-long visit on May 8-14 to the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile in Dharamshala. The delegation also included senators Michel Berson of the Socialist Party, Bernard Fournier of the Union for a Popular Movement, and Andre Gattolin of the Green Party. During their visit they met the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorjee. They also met the Central Tibetan Administration’s Secretary for Information and International Relations, Mr. Tashi Phuntsok, and visited the Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute (Mentseekhang). The delegation visited the Tibetan Children’s Village school and various other Tibetan NGOs based in Dharamshala.

“We all have a common goal in our hearts and that is supporting Tibetans,” Humbert said. Humbert continued to express support, stating “In the international context, when there is violence somewhere, it receives a lot of attention. In the Tibetan case, it would be very useful if the international community recognizes the non-violent struggle of the Tibetan people.”

While addressing a press conference on May 10 at the Department of Speaker Penpa Tsering and Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the Tibetan Parliament with the French Senate delegation Photo: Tibet.net

Information and International Relations, the French delegation praised the Tibetan non-violent struggle for freedom. They also stated that they would ask China to allow a French Parliamentary delegation to visit Tibet. In regards to the visit, Senator Berson said “We might not receive a favorable response to our request but it would be a positive step, which will show we are willing to support the Tibetan people in this difficult time.” The delegation found the visit to Dharamshala informative. Senator Berson said that he and his fellow delegates learned much more about Tibetan issues than they had previously known. The French delegation’s visit to Dharamshala came a month after President Francois Hollande met China’s President Xi Jinping. President Hollande brought up human rights issues and Tibet in their talks.

A Month of more Arrests and Suffering

by Shraddha Gupta May has been a sensitive period for the Tibetan community with reports of continuing arrests of Tibetans by Chinese authorities, and of a series of releases of prisoners who are reported to be in poor health after their jail terms. Gartse Jigme, a well-known Tibetan writer from Contact Magazine

Gartse monastery in Amdo, was arrested on May 24, for writing a book on Tibet and the wave of self immolations. Secretly sentenced to five years in prison, his current condition and whereabouts remain unknown. Lobsang Tenzin: Almost a month after his release , Lobsang Tenzin, who served 25 years in Chinese prisons as a political prisoner, remains under house arrest and constant police surveillance, meeting solely family members, and only allowed to leave his house to go to hospital with a 6

police escort. He suffered from health problems resulting from torture and mistreatment while in prison where, despite the torture, he continued his political activism. Others released recently are Tibetan writer and activist Jigme Gyatso, 28, released on completion of his three year prison term and reportedly in a serious health condition with injuries to his spine and kidneys; Lodoe Gyatso, 52, a former dance artist and a weight lifting champion, released at the completion of his 21-year prison term following murder charges is also Continued on page 15 MAY 2013

news & issues

The Snooping Dragon: China’s use of cyber espionage against Tibetan activists

by Miranda Hall ‘The Internet provides the technology to create the greatest global democracy we’ve seen, but equally it can be used to create the greatest totalitarian state’ predicted British political commentator and freedom in information campaigner, Heather Brooke. This second possibility already seems to be a reality in China where government controls over the web suffocate freedom of speech and information with ‘The Great Firewall’, large-scale deletions, website closures, real-name registration, and keyword blocks. A report published this month by the Pentagon has drawn attention to an addition to this list of cybertactics which extends beyond China’s borders: ‘cyber-espionage.’ American officials have long maintained that China is a top perpetrator of cyber-espionage (Verizon’s 2013 Data Breach Investigations Report identified China as the source of over 30% of cyber attacks globally); this report goes a step further, blaming some cyber-instructions directly on

Photo:Facebook

the government and its military. The report focusses primarily on Chinese theft of business secrets and industrial technology, but other victims suffer at the hands of cyberespionage: activist groups and NGOs (non-government organisations). Tibetan activists have been persistently attacked over the past few years yet they do not hold the financial capabilities of the corporate or government targets to investigate and prevent such attacks. In cases Contact Magazine

where the data of human rights groups is targeted, it is human lives that are at stake. Fifty years ago the struggle for Tibetan independence was being fought out on in monasteries and the streets of Lhasa. Today the most important battleground between Tibetan activists and the Chinese authorities is cyberspace. Within China, blogs and websites critical of Chinese policy in Tibet are immediately taken down and keyword blocks exist preventing anyone from searching for the likes of ‘freedom’ and ‘Dalai Lama.’ A recent study by researchers at Carnegie Melon University revealed that up to 53% of locally generated posts were deleted in Tibet, against just 12% in Beijing. The Tibetan activist movement based abroad in exile communities is also vulnerable to cyber-espionage. There are numerous examples: the ‘GhostNet’ operation uncovered in March 2008 infiltrated computer systems belonging to the Dalai Lamas offices as well as those belonging to embassies, foreign ministries and other government offices. This month, researchers at the global security software company ESET have discovered a cyberespionage malware targeting Tibetan activists which could have been active unnoticed for several years and earlier, Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) was targeted through a malicious email which they forwarded to Citizen Lab, a University of Toronto project involved in a study of cyber threats against human rights organisations. The Chinese government has every incentive to target Tibetan activists with whom they are engaged in a perpetual struggle. While there may be no conclusive evidence tracing this cyber-espionage to the People’s Liberation Army, as Alien Vault Labs 7

director, Jaime Blasco asked: ‘Who is the only one interested in targeting big profile entities in the US and Tibet Uyghur activists around the world?’ The circumstantial evidence available from the investigations into these attacks seems to point to the Chinese Government itself as the source of cyber-tactics used against multi-national industrial and corporate organisations and human rights groups alike. These tactics would appear to be fast becoming their most powerful instruments in the implementation of a totalitarian state. Tibetan activists use the Internet to create international awareness of the Tibetan cause through social media, websites and blogs. Award-winning Tibetan blogger and poet Woeser

Ai Wei Wei after being beaten by Chinese police

is an inspiring example of this with an enormous following inside, and beyond, China. Her blog has been hacked and closed by the government on multiple occasions and she has been placed under house arrest for posting ‘sensitive material.’ However, she has stated that she will continue writing and speaking. So even in China, the internet is a powerful democratic platform for dissenting voices. In an article – ‘Chinese censorship will never defeat the internet’- Chinese artist and political and cultural critic, Ai Wei Wei writes: ‘Censorship is saying: “I’m the one who says the last sentence. Whatever you say, the conclusion is mine.” But the internet is like a tree that is growing. The people will always have the last word.’ MAY 2013

news & issues

Leaked Document Reveals that Chinese troops in Tibet suffer from PTSD

by Alfredo Aguirre Recently, a 25-page training manual was leaked to the public. The manual was utilised by members of the People’s Armed Police who reside in Tibetan areas of Sichuan province. The training document reveals that the struggle to keep Tibetans under control is inflicting severe psychological damage on Chinese armed forces. Some of the manual’s guidance details fighting depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A particular section is titled: “How should you deal with flashbacks of brutal episodes?” In this portion of the document, it refers to two specific incidents relating to self-immolation and the murdering of protesters. One

of the occurrences happened in Aba county of March 16, 2011 when a Tibetan monk named Phuntsok selfimmolated in a market.

People’s Armed Police Photo: CAI JUN/EPA via Tibet.net

The other took place in Seda and Ganzi counties during protests by Tibetans on March 18, 2009 where Chinese armed police shot into the crowed. The document was discovered and disseminated by the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), a non-governmental organisation run by Tibetans in exile in Dharamshala. The TCHRD stated that this report refutes the claim that life is “harmonious” under Chinese rule. Furthermore, to combat the problems arising from troops being exposed to traumatic incidents, China has introduced a new, microscopic surveillance system to keep watch of the ethnic population.

His Holiness Visits the United States

by Catherina Leipold

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has recently returned from a two-week teaching trip to the United States, visiting five states and speaking primarily with students. His Holiness stressed that the journey toward peace must start with education. Maryland The University of Maryland in College Park invited His Holiness to present the Anwar Sadat Lecture for Peace on Peace Through Compassion: Connecting a Multi-Faith World on May 7. After donning a visor with the university’s mascot and rubbing noses with the Maryland governor,

At the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Association in Portland, Oregon Photo: Jeremy Russell OHHDL

His Holiness stressed to a record audience of 15,000 that we must Contact Magazine

learn compassion, tolerance, and forgiveness before attempting to solve political problems. Later in the day

Young Tibetans in traditional dress Madison, Wisconsin Photo: Jeremy Russell OHHDL

he led a panel discussion. University President Wallace Loh called the visit a ‘special opportunity’ to see and hear His Holiness in person, as ‘he represents what we all aspire to as a civilized society’. Oregon Maitripa College, a Tibetan Buddhist institution in Portland, welcomed His Holiness on May 8. After a meeting with staff and Tibetan students at the Global Leadership Initiative, he led an interfaith gathering of 4,300 at the University of Portland and was greeted by the local Tibetan 8

community, which is 600 members strong. ‘This morning’s session, in the spirit of religious brotherhood, was very good,’ His Holiness said after the event. ‘We need to repeat this in Africa, the Arab world and the Middle East.’ He was awarded an honorary degree by Maitripa College, and a President’s Medal from the University of Oregon, where he spoke to an audience of 10,000 people, focusing on the environment and the necessity for dialogue among future generations in order to procure a peaceful world. Wisconsin On May 15, His Holiness joined other thought leaders at the University of Wisconsin in Madison to discuss neuroscience, environment, economics, and healthcare and how they can combine to make the world a healthier, happier place. ‘Whether king or queen or high Lama or high sort of special leader like Dalai Lama and beggar, we are the same’, His Holiness said. He also gave a teaching on Je Tsongkhapa’s Praise to Dependent Origination (tendrel toepa) at the Deer Park Buddhist Center. Continued on page 9 MAY 2013

news & issues

Celebrating Saka Dawa, the Holiest Day in Tibetan Buddhism

by Shraddha Gupta Saka Dawa is the holiest day in the Tibetan culture and the most sacred Buddhist holiday. Traditionally held on the full moon day of the 4th Lunar month of the Tibetan Calendar, it was celebrated this year on May 25.

The day is significant as the celebration of three great events in the life of Shakyamuni Buddha: his birth in Lumbini; his enlightenment during a full moon night in Bodhgaya; and his parinirvana (death) in the city of Kushinagar. The name ‘Saka Dawa’ comes from ‘Dawa’ meaning month in Tibetan, and ‘Saka’ which is the name of the starwhich is closest to Earth, and thus most prominent, at this time of the year, and one of the 28 major stars used in Tibetan astrology calculations.

Continued from page 8

Many Tibetans were seen making donations to beggars surrounding the

temple, who arrived knowing they would receive alms on Saka Dawa.

Saka Dawa is celebrated with a special early morning puja at the monastery. Traditionally everyone gathers to make a promise to follow the ten Tibetan Buddhist virtues, promising to avoid, and to practice the opposite of: killing and harming others; stealing; sexual contact; lying; slandering; saying painful words; talking uselessly; having bad thoughts and being involved in wrong beliefs. People spend the day reciting the six syllable mantra, ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’, and making prostrations in order to show their respect to lord Buddha. Photos: Shraddha Gupta and Lha

His Holiness Visits the United States

Louisiana His Holiness arrived in New Orleans on May 17, five days after a parade shooting in the city sent 19 people to the hospital. He spoke on strength through compassion and connection at two universities. One of his panel discussions, Trauma Resolutions and Healing Through Compassionate Means, was an appropriate topic in the city struck by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. ‘His talks are very profound’ said monk Lobsang Dhondup, ‘he has a way to get big messages across in simple ways. It’s emotional and intellectual’. His Holiness was also present at the Tulane Unified Commencement Ceremony where he received an honorary degree and delivered the keynote address. He then answered questions in a talk at the Contact Magazine

Tibetan Buddhists inside Tibet and in exile all over the world took a day off from work to perform purifications and activities to accumulate merit. As it is believed that the merit of any good deed that one performs this month is multiplied as much as one hundred million times, followers make a point of offering donations and money to the needy, praying and reciting mantras, refraining from eating meat,making prostrations, lighting butter lamps, freeing animals and also circumambulating around stupas and other holy places. Saka Dawa is known as the ‘vegetarian month’ by many today.

University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena.

Kentucky Children offered His Holiness a traditional Tibetan welcome at the Drepung Gomang Institute. He then performed consecration prayers in the temple, and offered to have a copy of the Kangyur and Tengyur delivered to the institute. He also encouraged the creation of academic courses to accompany religious teachings. His Holiness attended a three-day event (May 19-21) called Engaging Compassion and was later introduced to a crowd of 14,000 people at the KFC Yum Center as ‘a man radiating peace and joy’. He commended the city of Louisville for adopting the Charter of Compassion, and called for action beyond prayer to achieve compassion. 9

and peace.

Kentucky Center for Arts Photo; Jeremy Russell OHHDL

On his last day in Kentucky, His Holiness met with a group of Vietnamese Buddhists. He clarified features of the Buddhist teachings and complimented the assembly on the preservation of the Vietnamese culture. He then met with a group of middle and high school students and spoke about avoiding anger, and reinforcing our compassion by using our intelligence. MAY 2013

news & issues

Tibetan Headlines

May 30: Tibetan Mining Protest Thousands of Tibetans took part in a major protest against Chinese mining activities last week in Driru region of eastern Tibet. Over 4,500 Tibetans gathered near Naglha Zamba, a sacred hill rich in mineral resources, to protest against its exploitation by Chinese miners on May 24. Chinese authorities responded by deploying over 50 military convoys at the protest site. Three Tibetans were reportedly killed by landslide on their way to the protest site.

Report 2013 has revealed that Chinese authorities in Tibet continue to repress the fundamental rights of Tibetan people, saying the authorities maintained a ‘stranglehold on political activists, human rights defenders and online activists, subjecting many to harassment, intimidation, arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance,’ and that ‘numerous people allegedly involved in anti-government protests were beaten, detained, subjected to enforced disappearance or sentenced following unfair trials.’

May 29: Outstanding Results Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay has lauded Tibetan students who have achieved outstanding results in this year’s All India Senior Secondary Certificate Examination, praising Ms Tenzin Chokyi of Tibetan Homes Foundation in Mussoorie for becoming the first Tibetan student to score 95.4% in the class XII board exam. Five Tibetan schools have secured 100% pass in the three different streams of study. The overall Tibetan schools pass rate is is 87.3%, higher than the all India aggregate of 82.10%.

May 24: Chinese Espionage Exposed The Department of Security of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has exposed a terror plot by Chinese Security Agencies to poison two Tibetan youths in a bid to spread chaos and terror in the Tibetan community. Tashi Gyaltsen@Tashi Dhondup and Karma Yeshi@Tashi were the youths targeted. Penpa Tsering, 33, a former member of the People’s Liberation Army is accused by the CTA of hatching a ‘terror plot’ and in ‘spreading chaos and terror in the Tibetan community.’

May 26: Lhasa Luxury Hotel Tibet campaigners armed with placards carrying graphic images of human rights abuses in Tibet disrupted InterContinental Hotels Group’s annual general meeting in London with a ‘die in’ Friday. The demonstrators were demanding IGH to withdraw its plans to open a luxury hotel in Lhasa, Tibet’s ancient capital, citing the ‘severe human rights abuses in Tibet and intense, ongoing protests against Chinese rule.’ May 25: Amnesty Annual Report Amnesty International’s Annual Contact Magazine

May 23: dalailamahindi.com A Hindi language version of the official website of His Holiness the Dalai has been launched and will complement the widely followed English, Tibetan, Russian, and Mongolian versions of the website which is managed by the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Tenzin Taklha, joint secretary at the Private Office said ‘His Holiness often describes himself as ‘son of India’ and it’s only natural that his website is made available in Hindi too.’ May 17: International Solidarity Day The Central Tibetan Administration will observe International Solidarity Day today on 17 May. The Day is being organised 10

to symbolise international community’s solidarity with the aspirations of the Tibetan people inside Tibet who yearn for freedom and continue to stand strong in the face of great adversity. A day long exhibition and the prayers will be held at the Tsuglagkhang for the Self Immolators. May 14: Monastic Education Conference A four-day conference on ‘Development of Monastic Education’ for the four major Tibetan Buddhist schools and Bon tradition began at the Gyutoe Monastery in lower Dharamshala. The conference is organised by the Department of Religion and Culture of the Central Tibetan Administration and will focus on introducing science into monastic education,and holding nonsectarian Monlam (prayer festivals) and non-sectarian Buddhist debates May 13: International Youth Resolution The World Council of the International Union of Socialist Youth was held in Dortmund, Germany from May 8-9. Youth leaders blamed China for the ongoing wave of self-immolations in Tibet and called on Beijing to allow international fact-finding delegations to visit Tibetan areas. Around 130 delegates, representing over 60 countries passed a hard-hitting resolution on Tibet. May 9: Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche The Central Tibetan Administration congratulated former Kalon Tripa Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche on being appointed Chancellor of Sanchi University of Buddhist-Indic Studies based in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. A highest recognition of Tibetan scholars in general and the remarkable and invaluable Tibetan Buddhist tradition in particular,” the Kashag wrote in its congratulatory message. MAY 2013

news & issues

International Headlines

May 27: Colombian Land Reform In a breakthrough negotiation, the Colombian government and leftist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) agreed to compensate those who have lost land or who have been displaced from their property. The deal also represents efforts to modernise the agriculture industry, though nothing is final until a complete peace settlement is reached. Over 600,000 people have died and over three million have been displaced since the insurgency began in the 1960s. May 22: Sweden, Anti-Police Riots A police shooting of a 69-year-old man in a Stockholm suburb resulted in smashed windows, burning cars, and physical altercations. Around 200 local residents protested this act of police brutality, w h i c h took place in Husby, an area populated mostly by immigrants. Despite recent decreases in unemployment and crime, tensions are high after this incident.

May 21: Oklahoma Tornado At least 51 are dead, and more than 20 remain missing after a powerful tornado with winds up to 321 km/h struck the suburbs of Oklahoma City, USA. President Barack Obama promised assistance to Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin, who called the incident “tragic.” Last week another tornado hit Granbury, Texas, killing six. May 20: Attack on Iraqi Sunnis At least 76 people have been killed in bombings in majority Sunni districts in Baghdad and surrounding areas in deadliest day in Iraq for last eight months. The attack on Friday’s twin bombings near a Sunni mosque in Baquba, north of Baghdad, killed 41 people and Contact Magazine

injured dozens. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

May 17: Pressure on Syria American President Obama and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan have vowed to increase pressure on Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad to step down. The leaders said that they had made Syria top of their agenda, as they agreed that the issue of chemical weapons was an important one and Obama said that the use of chemical arms should always be out of bounds. Erdogan said that there was evidence of chemical weapons use in Syria but that it is important to get “more specific information” to confirm this before deciding how to respond. May 16: Cannes Film Festival The 66th Cannes film festival is now under way, giving independent moviemakers and Hollywood stars alike the chance to shine. Twenty films from all over the world are competing for this year’s coveted Palm D’Or. Celebrated Hollywood director Steven Spielberg is sitting at the head of the jury which will decide on the winner. May 15: Removal of 3D Guns Aftre more than 10,000 downloads, the blueprints of plastic guns have been taken offline. The US State Department wrote to the gun’s designer, Defense Distributed, suggesting publishing them online may breach arms-control regulations. Although the files have been removed from the company’s Defcad site, it is not clear whether this will stop people accessing the blueprints. Cody Wilson, who founded Defense Distributed, told the BBC that the genie was out of the bottle. “Once people heard what happened, Pirate Bay has exploded. I’m sat here watching it now, seeing the downloads go up and up.”. May 14: WW II Comfort women “necessary” Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto said the “comfort women” gave soldiers putting their lives at risk a chance “to rest” while acknowledging their 11

unwillingness during World War II Hashimoto said former comfort women should be offered “kind words”. He said, “It is a result of the tragedy of the war that they became comfort women against their will. The responsibility for the war also lies with Japan. We have to politely offer kind words to [former] comfort women.”

May 13: New Orleans Shooting 19 people were injured during Mother’s day parade in New Orleans. Serpas said “It appears that these two or three people, for reasons unknown to us, started shooting at, towards or in the crowd,” adding that the incident was over in “just a couple of seconds.” As many as 400 people joined what is known as a second-line parade, a loose procession in which people dance down the street, often following a brass band. They can be impromptu or planned. May 7: End of face-off The face-off between India -China had intriguing parallels with the 1962 Indo-China war which lasted 4 weeks. Recently with deepened diplomatic engagement with China finally ended the 21 day border standoff in eastern Ladakh on Sunday, with both armies agreeing to simultaneously pull out of the site and go back to pre-April 15 position. May 2: Sarabijit Dies Sarabjit Singh, a 49 year old Indian man convicted of spying by a court in Pakistan has died after being attacked last week by fellow inmates, medical officials and his lawyer said. He was accused of spying and involvement in the 1990 bomb attacks in Lahore and Faisalabad in which 14 people died. This has rocked the relation between the two nations. MAY 2013

around town

Charities and Organisations

Central Tibetan Administration

The CTA serves in Dharamsala as the government in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.net LOCATION: Dharamsala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-222218 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pm EMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)

OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organizes his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamsala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221879 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organization with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organizes cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organization publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 / 221010 EMAIL:info@tibetanyouthcongress.org, gensec@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association

The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221527 / 221198 EMAIL: twa@tibetanwomen.org

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamsala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.in LOCATION: Dharamsala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-220356 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

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Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang) Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-TseeKhang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 EMAIL: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Tibetan Library (LTWA) (Centre for Tibetan Studies)

The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-222467 / 226181 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:005:00pm. Closed 2nd and 4th Sat. every month EMAIL: office@ltwa.net

Delek Hospital

Delek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamsala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital) LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamsala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily EMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Sambhota Tibetan Schools Society

The society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organization. WEB: www.sambhota.org LOCATION: Session Road, Dharamsala 176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stsa1999@yahoo.co.in

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organization that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organization attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organizations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org

LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-220589

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Narthang Building Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-223363 EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)

Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2) WEB:www.lhasocialwork.org LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 01892-220992 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

(Ex Political Prisoners Association) Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organization that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Some volunteer opportunities available. WEB: www. tong-len.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamsala-176215 PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Tibet Charity

Tibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.in LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in, tibccharity@gmail. com

MAY 2013

around town CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative

Charities and Organisations

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative provides HIV/ AIDS education, prevention and care services in Tibetan settlements throughout India. The services provided by CHOICE range from individual counseling to organizational training. CHOICE has a sponsorship program and occasionally utilizes volunteers. WEB: www.choicehivaids.org LOCATION: Arora House, 2nd Floor, Temple Road, Dharamsala PHONE: 01892-220239, 941-831-6896 EMAIL: choicehivaids@gmail.com

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a nonprofit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole. They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.org LOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala 176215 PHONE: 0189 222 6627 EMAIL: tccroffice@yahoo.com

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levls of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers. WEB: www.anec.org.in LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, executive_directoranec@yahoo.com

National Democratic Party of Tibet

The NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a future

Dharamsala Dog Rescue

Dharamsala Dog Rescue is in urgent need of vet volunteers, animal experts and sponsors. We are in immediate need of sponsors for two paralysed dogs that need a home, wheelchair, monthly food and medicine. Please contact us if you see an injured/sick dog. WEB: www.hnsindia.org LOCATION: Behind the District Court Complex on Chilgari St, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-622-0841 EMAIL: friendsforanimals@gmail.com

Clean Upper Dharamsala Project

Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

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Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors. WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE: 01892-246366, 981-685-1841 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com

Women’s Team

Volunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamsala. Contact Jitender. EMAIL: jagori@yahoo.com PHONE: 9817105035 or 08894435595

BUS SCHEDULE

* Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure. Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840)

Rogpa Baby Care Center

The Rogpa Baby Care Center helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The center needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing. WEB: www.tibetrogpa.org LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka Guest House, Jogiwara Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 (near no.13 on map) PHONE: 981-665-9549 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm- 5 :00 pm EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties, and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.org LOCATION: Dharamsala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com

Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165)

*from Dharamsala

Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm Manali: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75)

Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS

A private taxi to Lower Dharamsala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. phone: 222 053,223 381

Police Contact Information Location: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area. Phone: 221 483

Post Office The McLeod Ganj Post Office is located Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324 on Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034 9:30am-noon, Sat. Phone: 221 924 Tourism Office: 01892-23107 Parcels and money orders can be Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026 sent in the mornings only. 13

MAY 2013

activities and tourist info LANGUAGES

Upcoming Events

MEDITATION

Jun 27-28 HH The Dalai Lama teachings at the TCV Auditorium at the request of Tibetan youth Jul 1-2 HH The Dalai Lama teachings at the Main Temple in Dharamsala, on Tsongkhapa’s The Three Principal Aspects of the Path at the request of a Vietnamese

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

Tibetan Language Class

Tushita Meditation Center

Hindi Classes

group

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Library of Tibetan Works & Archives WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH Karmapa WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 981-631-5336

YOGA & REIKI Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11 HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

MASSAGE Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & Treatment LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga Center

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd. HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PM PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Nature Cure Health Club

Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992

Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

Traditional Thai Massage

LOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com

Contact Magazine

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 01982-21866 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Vipassana Meditation

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01982-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center

LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992 See ad on pg 3. LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with Sunil

LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan Language

LOCATION: The Tibetan Library See Buddhist Philosophy Listing

WEB: http://.rishiyogaindia.com/reach.php LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite Gaden Choeling Nunnery PHONE: 9736184741, 9882228502 EMAIL: Yogarishi2001@yahoo.co.in

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

School of Life and Spirituality

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

Meditation and teachers’ training LOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleodganj, please all before coming WEB: web: www.devom.org PHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310 EMAIL: dev@devom.org

COOKING Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking Classes

LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10:00am-12:00pm & 4:00-6:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms. Rita Kapoor LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592 06586

LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947 HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post office HOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken

Location: Esukhia Office,Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala Web: www.esukhia.org Phone: 8679502538 E- mail- esukhiacontact@gmail.com

ART & MUSeums Naam Art Gallery

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamsala PHONE: 9816043708

Tibet Museum

LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

Kangra Art Museum

LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA) WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tipadhasa@hotmail.com

Form Gallery

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis Cafe PHONE: 8894-060602 HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

MAY 2013

activities & services HEALTH SERVICES Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday PHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106 EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the the Club House HOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily PHONE: 8894492837 EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health Clinic

LOCATION: Main Square HOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 941-815-5795 EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-22618 / 223113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital

LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

Ayuskam Health Care

WEB: www.ayuskama.com LOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod Ganj PHONE: 980-592-8923, 973-621-1210

Continued from page 6

Name: Nate Richter Jobs at Lha: Assistant teacher “The goal is still Dharamshala”; out of a journal entry of mine from early in the year. The attraction to Dharamshala (Mcleod Ganj) took root when I first learned of the Tibetan community in exile there, and from various backpackers I had met over the course of the past eight months of travel in Asia. Reading books on the Dalai Lama, Tibet, and Buddhism subsequently fed my desire to visit the mountain top refuge. So, when I found myself at the doorstep of the Himalayas, Mcleod, finally feeling at ease after a 350km cycle through Punjab, I began to delve into the things that make the town and the community such a special place. Two months later I’m still here, and not a day goes by when I am not constantly reminded of the generosity, spirituality, and mystery of the Tibetan culture, kept alive by that country’s exiled population. Beginning to volunteer at Lha in my first week opened the gates to my experiences with the locals more than any other activity in which I have partaken. Starting with conversation classes and moving into a role as assistant teacher in the elementary

English class, I came into contact with some truly beautiful individuals who also happen to be extremely earnest students. Some of the sentences they came up with (despite being written with a limited understanding of the language) were articulate, always honest, at times uplifting and at others, heartbreaking. Reading words off the board in unison, the resulting hilarity when differences between our cultures met, and being able to see the students progress and their knowledge grow, have been some of the many rewards of being a volunteer at Lha. Having been able to use my knowledge to benefit the students fills me with a deep gratitude that I owe to not only the students, but to the other staff who also made my experience here so impactful. With a flight home in just a few short days, I find myself reflecting on the time spent here, and among the mixed emotions about leaving, I feel excited about being able to come back and to again be a part of this community.

A Month of More Arrests and Suffering

reported to be in poor health. Also free are senior Tibetan Lama Adril Lobsang Tsultrim of Wonpo Gaden Shedup Dhargyeling Monastery, released on May 15, and two monks, Lobsang Tenpa and Lobsang Choeden on May 12, all released after serving the full five years of their prison terms. Sonam Yingyen, 44, a Tibetan monk from the Nyatso Zilkar Monastery in Tridu, eastern Tibet, was released on May 9 before the expiration of his prison term due to Contact Magazine

Reflections of a Volunteer My Time in McLeod Ganj

“medical emergency.” He was among five monks who were arrested in September 2012 in a surprise police raid on the monastery. On May 14 it was reported that Chinese police had beaten Kaldo, a monk at the Chamdo Monastery, to death for possessing recordings of speeches by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and for his stance on Tibet’s independence. He apparently refused to sign a letter as ordered by the Chinese authorities, writing instead: ‘Tibet is independent’. 15

And on May 9, more than two months after Tibetan self-immolator Phagmo Dhondup set himself on fire, a message he left with a friend has been released: “Till now, over a hundred Tibetans in Tibet have set themselves on fire for freedom. They are the true martyrs of Tibet. If Tibet does not get its freedom and independence, China will annihilate Tibetan culture and tradition”. He expressed sadness over Chinese authorities’ restrictions on studying Tibetan language in his region. MAY 2013

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Tibetan Youth Congress Meeting

by Tenzin Younten The Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) is an organisation of Tibetans united in their common struggle for the restoration of complete independence for the whole of Tibet. It is an independent organisation which has emerged as one of the largest non-government organisations of Tibetans in exile with more than 30,000 members worldwide,and commands a large following inside Tibet. TYC does not subscribe to any particular political ideology nor to any particular religion or religious sect. 130 plus delegates representing more than 40 regional chapters from India, USA and Canada are taking part in the highest decision making body of the organisation, which meets every three years. They hold board meetings and the heads of every branch, or chapter,worldwide, gather.This year their 6-day, 15th meeting opened on May 27 in the exile Tibetan headquarters of Dharamsala to discuss eight Agendas. First Agenda:to discuss the previous yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues. Second Agenda:to go through the annual reports and financial accounts of the TYC head quarters and every regional Chapter. Third Agenda: to review the previous yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decisionsto see if they accomplished their set goals. Fourth Agenda:to discuss various topics related to political issues; their stand on political ideology and organisation of political activities. Examples of their political activities are: 1. How to make their activities stronger and better than before and more effective to fulfill TYC objectives. 2. In what way, or how to fulfill Tibetan martyrsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; last words. 3. Different kind of initiatives which can be plotted against the Chinese Government to achieve the release of all Tibetan political prisoners, including the highest Tibetan Lama, the Panchen Lama in Tibet. 4. Organising activities to stop theenvironmental destructionin Tibet by the Chinese government, including the extraction of minerals and deforestation. 5. How to make the exile Tibetan community a more advanced and better democratic system. Fifth Agenda:to discuss the preservation of Tibetan culture and religion. Sixth Agenda:to discuss security for His Holiness from any kind a threat from Dorje Shugden and the Chinese Government, and how TYC can provide more security. Seventh Agenda:to review TYC rules and regulations and amend or introduce new rules or guides as required. Eighth Agenda:the last session is for discussionaboutthe various issues faced by different regional chapters and to collect their views and their feed-back. At the end of the meetings on June 1, the delegates will elect the new executive members of the organization.

Shivani Clinic and Panchakarma Centre

Bhagsunag - map # 22 Empower Yourself Ayurvedic consultations for acute and chronic diseases with ayurvedic therapies, herbs and panchakarma, with world renowned doctors working in collabration with naturopaths in Europe and America. Treatments starting from one hour to three weeks, depending on your problems. Contact Magazine

visit : www.ashoayurvedahealing.com email: drshivani.mahehskumar@gmail.com call: 9418069406 weekdays 5- 7pm MAY 2013