Living Tibetan Spirits – Page 4 – Whole Dude

Whole Awareness: My Body is Indian But Spiritually I’m Tibetan

The Living Tibetan Spirits: My Body is Indian but Spiritually I’m Tibetan

Following the visit of His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama’s visit to Ann Arbor, MI, USA in 2008, I coined the phrase ‘The Living Tibetan Spirits’. I am not a monk. I am speaking of my ‘spirituality’ in the context of hosting the ‘Spirits’ of young Tibetan soldiers who gave their precious lives while taking part in a military action in the Chittagong Hill Tracts that initiated the Liberation of Bangladesh during 1971. I claim that I am Tibetan for I host their ‘Spirits’ in my Consciousness.

“Self-grasping (or self-focus) gives rise to suffering. It is the root of all afflictions.”

– The Dalai Lama, as translated Saturday by Thupten Jinpa.

“At the root of all our suffering lies a form of ignorance, a form of unknowing.”

– The Dalai Lama, as translated Saturday by Thupten Jinpa

‘My body is Tibetan but spiritually I’m an Indian,’ says the Dalai Lama

Clipped from: https://in.news.yahoo.com/body-tibetan-spiritually-apos-m-061025047.html

**Tibet Awareness: My body is Indian but spiritually I am Tibetan.**

In a freewheeling interview with HT, the Dalai Lama speaks on wide-ranging spiritual and political issues, including what he thinks of India-China ties.

On the outer periphery of Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya in Bihar, a mere few hundred steps from the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment more than 2,000 years ago, the 14th Dalai Lama prays and meets his followers in a monastery behind an iron security curtain. Inside the temple, Trinley Thaye Dorje, the co-claimant along with Ogyen Trinley Dorje for the title of 17th Karmapa or head of Karma Kagyu school, is preaching to his followers from all over the world on Buddhism. The 17th Karmapa will become the key leader of Tibetan Buddhism in case the 14th Dalai Lama dies without reincarnation. The two religious leaders have no common ground because of the Dalai Lama, like China, recognizes Ogyen Dorje, who left India for the US in May 2017 and acquired citizenship of Dominica in March this year, as the real Karmapa.

On Sunday morning after he discreetly meets a group of monks that has made its way from Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the frail-looking but mentally alert 84-year-old spiritual leader of the Tibetan people talked exclusively to Shishir Gupta on wide-ranging political and spiritual issues. Edited excerpts:

How is your health these days?

Quite Good… Not very good …. for an 84-year-old person, quite good. I go for morning walks in Dharamshala also…. Here I take around 600 steps each morning in the monastery.

What was the reason for the indefinite postponement of the 13th Religious Conference of the Schools of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon Tradition (November 29-December 1, 2018) in Dharamshala? The conference was called to discuss the future of the institution of Dalai Lama.

One important lama (Kathok Getse Rinpoche, Head of Nyingma school) suddenly passed away. The conference had to be postponed as it was a period of mourning. It has nothing to do with 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje not getting a visa to visit India. I could not meet Thaye Dorje as he was not present when I went for pilgrimage to the Stupa.

Do you talk to both Ogyen and Thaye?

No, I have not yet met Thaye Dorje. Recently, the two met in France. A rightful beginning. Shamar Rinpoche, the nephew of 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje who took refuge in Sikkim after 1959 uprising, told me that there were indications that Thaye Dorje was the reincarnation of the previous Karmapa. In the meantime, Situ Rinpoche (the rival regent) appointed Ogyen Dorje as the Karmapa. I mentioned to Shamar that a high lama in the 19th century had five reincarnations. It is possible for 16th Karmapa to have few reincarnations but the holder of the seat should be one. This is like the two Panchen Lamas with Gedhun Choekyi Nyima (proclaimed by Dalai Lama as reincarnation on May 14, 1995) still alive (other being Gyaltsen Norbu who was appointed by the Chinese government). But then some group told me that I should not be talking about the possibility of two or three reincarnations. I said, OK, then I will keep quiet.

Then who will decide the rightful one heir to the seat?

Situ Rinpoche found a remarkable child (Ogyen Dorje) in Tibet. They came to see me and finalize that. Then I said yes to Ogyen as the reincarnation of the 16th Karmapa.

There are now two Panchen Lamas, two Karmapas, now the question comes to the tallest lama, the Dalai Lama. Have you initiated the process of your reincarnation because the Chinese government has already initiated the process?

No, no, no. That is not my business. I made it clear as early as in 1969 that it was up to the Tibetan people to decide whether the very institution of Dalai Lama should continue or not. They will decide. I have no concern. Since the 5th Dalai Lama, the (person holding the) title was the head of both temporal and spiritual affairs. Since 2001, I have proudly, voluntarily and happily given up the political role. We have already achieved elected political leadership (Centralized Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala) and they carry their full responsibility about our temporal affairs. I have totally retired since 2011. So, my thinking is more liberal than Chinese thinking which is more orthodox.

But how will people under stress in Tibet decide whether the institution of Dalai Lama should continue?

It should be decided in a free country, not in Tibet, where there is no freedom.

Have you initiated the process of dialogue on the Dalai Lama institution?

No. Formally, not yet. As the Dalai Lama institution is close to Mongolia, Mongolian people should be involved. I think there should be an international Buddhist conference involving Himalayan people and other Buddhist countries to decide on this. My main concern is that my body, speech, mind, and life should be useful to other people. So long as space remains, and suffering remains, I remain. My daily prayer is the source of my inner strength. This institution of Dalai Lama, I half-jokingly, half-seriously say, has lasted six to seven hundred years should cease with the 14th with grace. If the 15th Dalai Lama turns out to be naughty as the sixth, then the institution will cease in disgrace. The institution could voluntarily and democratically cease with the 14th Dalai Lama being quite famous (he laughs).

Has your middle way approach with China worked? Is it going to benefit Tibetans at all?

Oh yes. Like Germany and France after centuries of fighting came together after second World War to form European Union on shared common values, we also want to be part of the Peoples Republic of China provided the Tibetan culture, language, knowledge, and environment are protected. We get a more economic benefit for material development as China is rich economically but spiritually, we can help millions of Chinese Buddhists. This is mutually beneficial. Historically, Tibet has never been part of China and this even some Chinese historians admit. But past is past, we must live harmoniously and happily together rather than talk in terms of our nation and their nation. People ask me about the future of India and China relations. I say that neither India nor China has the capability to destroy each other. They must live happily side by side with minor irritants. Ultimately, Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai should be the principle. One must remember that there are around 400 million Chinese Buddhists who are inspired by Tibetan Buddhism, which in turn derives the majority of its strength from the Nalanda traditions.

There are media reports about Dr. Lobsang Sangay, President of Centralized Tibetan Administration (CTA) often disregarding the advice of the 14th Dalai Lama. How is your relationship with him?

No. As he is the head of elected political leadership, all decision-making is in his hand. I have never tried to control the political leadership. But in the meantime, he believes me and trusts me. There are some small rumors.

Will Ogyen Dorje return to India? We are told that the 17th Karmapa claimant is putting conditions to the Indian Government for his return?

That I don’t know. Most probably, I think he will return. I recently had discussions with the Ministry of External Affairs and told them that it is between the government of India and Ogyen to decide. I have no problems. It is his business. Not an important matter. There is no question of the Tibetan movement splintering in this context.

Are you looking forward to a pilgrimage to China?

Yes. Sure. As far (back) as 1954, I expressed my desire to the Chinese government to visit Wutai Shan, the home of 13th Dalai Lama. I was told that there was no road. I still have that desire, but it is up to the Chinese government. Once a high Tibetan lama wanted to go to Bodh Gaya, but his disciple said that the real Bodh Gaya is in your heart. Historically, the Wutai Shan is the seat of Deva of wisdom. Whether I am there physically or not, that wisdom from the Deva is already in my brain…. very sharp.

Is there any back channel open with the Chinese for resolving the Tibetan issue?

After we decided not to seek independence from China in 1974, Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping decided to have direct contact with us through my elder brother and the dialogue started in 1979. We sent four fact-finding missions to Tibet from 1979 but the dialogue ceased with the death of Deng in 1997. The official dialogue again started under President Jiang Zemin in 2002 but ceased in June 2010. Since then there is only an informal channel open with Chinese retired officials and private businessmen coming to see me from time to time. And they have some connection with the top leader. The Chinese are not in touch with the CTA. We never used the word Tibetan Government in exile. It is the Chinese who have used this and recognized them (he laughs).

Of late various heads of government refuse to meet you fearing the reaction of a now all-powerful China? What is your reaction to it?

I have nothing to ask from any head of state or country. I think they are afraid of the Chinese reaction. I met Barack Obama as former US President and Nobel laureate as also late President George Bush Senior. My visit to Sri Lanka was canceled at the last moment. I have not visited Thailand since it established diplomatic relations with China. I am never allowed into Buddhist countries because I am a Buddhist (he laughs) except Japan.

Any plans to visit the US and meet President Donald Trump?

No because of my physical condition. Normally, I used to go to the US annually for a medical check-up. One Indian doctor found traces of prostate cancer at the Mayo Clinic in USA. A team of 10 doctors discussed and ruled out surgery due to my age and side effects. Instead, I got radiation and have been completely cured of the disease. I have not traveled to the US in the past two years as it is too far, and I cannot handle too much physical exertion. So instead of going to the US for treatment, I go to a private hospital in Delhi.

US President Donald Trump has just signed “The Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act 2018”, which allows the Tibetans to return to their homeland or else the Chinese officials stopping them face sanctions. What is your reaction to this?

The present president of the greatest democratic nation is a bit unpredictable. So, I am in no position to comment on this as I do not know enough. But both the US houses have been strong supporters of Tibet over the decades and so has been the American government. American people love Tibet.

What is your reaction when you were asked to shift “Thank You India” event to mark 60 years of your exile in New Delhi to Dharamshala in April?

The Indian government tried to avoid any obstacle to their relations with China. That is understandable. That is OK. I was not unhappy. Not much. Nothing. Basically, our relations with India are centuries old since a Nalanda master introduced Buddha Dharma in Sanskrit tradition in the 8th century. My body is Tibetan but spiritually and mentally I am an Indian. Today 10,000 monks and now nuns are studying in Nalanda Buddhist traditions with total freedom and not in any restricted environment in Tibet.

Will you or your people ever be able to return to their homeland, Tibet?

India is the only place where modern education meets ancient knowledge, which is needed to tackle emotions. I am committed to reviewing the ancient Indian knowledge to tackle emotions. For these things’ freedom is very important. My return to Tibet is of no use if there is no freedom. I prefer this country and this freedom and then I am the longest guest of India.

Whole Resolve – The Resolution of China-Tibet Dispute demands the eviction of occupier of Tibet

Living Tibetan Spirits Welcome The Resolve Tibet Act

**Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years.**

I am not a “Separatist.” I am not seeking the Separation of Tibet from China. Tibet is not and has never been a part of China. Separation is not the issue. Tibet is seeking its own existence and its own identity. Tibet is not asking for a new identity or creation of a new state from Chinese territory. Tibet is not demanding a surgical operation to carve out a new nation from an existing nation known as People’s Republic of China. The Problem of Tibet simply relates to the military occupation of the Land of Tibet by China. This Problem could be resolved by the Eviction of the Occupier. It is just to demand such eviction of an illegal occupier. Military occupation is the cause of this Problem of Tibet and eviction of this military force is the resolution that I want in Tibet.

Resolve Tibet Act: Bipartisan Legislation Enhancing U.S. Support for Tibet Passes Congress

Resolve Tibet Act Helps Counter Chinese Government Misinformation about Tibet; Pushes for Negotiation Between Chinese Government and the Dalai Lama to End Longstanding Dispute

Washington, June 12, 2024

WASHINGTON—The House has passed a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Todd Young (R-IN) to enhance U.S. support for Tibet and promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama toward a peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute between Tibet and China.

The Resolve Tibet Act first passed the House last February, clearing the Senate last month before today’s final procedural vote. It now goes to President Biden, who is expected to sign it into law.

The Resolve Tibet Act enhances U.S. support for Tibet— empowering State Department officials to actively and directly counter disinformation about Tibet from the Chinese government, rejecting false claims that Tibet has been part of China since “ancient times,” pushing for negotiations without preconditions between the Chinese government and the Dalai Lama or his representatives or the democratically elected leaders of the Tibetan community, and affirming the State Department’s responsibility to coordinate with other governments in multilateral efforts toward the goal of a negotiated agreement on Tibet.No formal dialogue between Tibetan and Chinese authorities has happened since 2010, and Chinese officials continue to make unreasonable demands of the Dalai Lama as a condition for further dialogue.

“Let the overwhelming passage of our strong, bipartisan bill be a clear message to the Tibetan people: America stands with you on the side of human dignity, and we support you in your quest to secure the basic rights to which you are entitled under international law,” said Ranking Member McGovern.

“The People’s Republic of China has systematically denied Tibetans the right to self-determination and continues to deliberately erase Tibetan religion, culture, and language. The ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people is a grave tragedy, and our bill provides further tools that empower both America and the international community to stand up for justice and peace.”

“Tibetans, like all people, have the right to religious freedom – which includes freedom from CCP surveillance, censorship, and detention,” said House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul.

“If the CCP truly does respect ‘sovereignty’ as it claims to do then it will engage in peaceful dialogue with the Tibetans to resolve this conflict, not force the Tibetans to accept a CCP proposal. Passing this bipartisan bill demonstrates America’s resolve that the CCP’s status quo in Tibet is not acceptable.”

“The people of Tibet deserve to be in charge of their own future, and, today, Congress has voted to stand with Tibetans in their struggle for freedom and self-determination,” said Senator Merkley, co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.

“The Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act helps counter misinformation from the Chinese government about Tibet and pushes for negotiations between the People’s Republic of China and Tibet to end this longstanding dispute. I look forward to President Biden swiftly signing this bill into law—the people of Tibet cannot wait any longer.”

“Our bipartisan bill will refresh U.S. policy towards Tibet and push for negotiations that advance freedom for the Tibetan people and a peaceful resolution to the CCP’s conflict with the Dalai Lama,” said Senator Young. “Congressional passage of this legislation further demonstrates America’s resolve that the CCP’s status quo – both in Tibet and elsewhere – is not acceptable. I look forward to this important effort becoming law and working with my colleagues and the Administration to ensure swift and effective implementation.”

THE LAND OF TIBET – “THE ROOF OF THE WORLD” :

Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years. In size Tibet is as large as three States of Texas combined. It is surrounded by four of the world’s ten highest mountains. It is home to about six million Tibetan people. Communist China’s military occupation has changed the population composition of this Land.

**Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years. All the major rivers of Asia have their origin in Tibet.**

Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years. Bos grunniens, a long-haired, stocky, wild ox of Tibet is often domesticated as a beast of burden, for its milk, meat, and its butter which is used to light the butter lamps in Gompas, Tibetan Places of Worship.

Tibet is the highest plateau in the world and it came into existence when the landmass of India joined the Asian landmass. All the major rivers of Asia have their origin in Tibet. These rivers support the lives of about 2 billion human beings. The ecology of Tibet is critical in view of global warming and scarcity of water. It has been recorded and found that the rate of warming is faster in Tibet. The mountains are experiencing less snowfall, and the glaciers that feed the rivers are melting and fading away. The extraction of mineral resources, the exploitation of natural resources like forests, and hunting of unique, native animals, the construction of dams and barriers across rivers flowing in Tibet pose dangers to fragile Tibetan ecology. The problem of Tibet is not merely an environmental issue.

What is the Problem of Tibet?

Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years. The United States Congress honored His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama with a Gold Medal during a ceremony in Washington,DC in 2007. President George W Bush, US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and US Senator Robert C Byrd are seen in the photo. Senator Byrd, the longest-serving member of the US Congress has died at the age of 92 after almost six decades in office. America has lost a voice of Principle and Reason. It is a time for us to reflect upon the Problem of Tibet.

Historically, Tibet has existed in a serene and unperturbed state for several centuries. Tibetan people are naturally born free and maintained their traditional sense of Freedom in spite of invasions by foreign forces. In October 1950, Communist China’s People’s Liberation Army invaded Tibetan soil and occupied it. This military occupation of Tibet poses a direct threat to Tibetan way of life; a direct threat to Tibetan Culture, Tibetan Religion, Tibetan Language, and the ethnic composition of the people of this Land. The problem of Tibet is not simply a concern about Human Rights and Religious Freedom. The Problem of Tibet involves Human Freedom and Human Dignity. Military occupation of Tibet is the very opposite of Human Freedom and Human Dignity.

The Resolution of the Problem of Tibet:

Whole Dude – Whole Resolve – Whole Eviction: Tibet Consciousness – Tibet Problem on the Back Burner for over 70 years. The Flag of Tibet symbolizes the Resolution of the Problem of Tibet. Tibetans have the natural Right to Human Freedom and to live in Dignity.

JULY 12, 2024

Statement from President Joe Biden on S. 138, the “Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act.”

Today, I have signed into law S. 138, the “Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act” (the “Act”). I share the Congress’s bipartisan commitment to advancing the human rights of Tibetans and supporting efforts to preserve their distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage. My Administration will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to resume direct dialogue, without preconditions, with the Dalai Lama, or his representatives, to seek a settlement that resolves differences and leads to a negotiated agreement on Tibet. The Act does not change longstanding bipartisan United States policy to recognize the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas of China as part of the People’s Republic of China –- a policy decision that falls within my authority to recognize foreign states and the territorial bounds of such states.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE, JULY 12, 2024

Whole Dude – Whole Day – World Tibet Day

The Supreme Ruler of Tibet celebrates his 89th birthday in exile

On Saturday, July 06, 2024, the Living Tibetan Spirits greet His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama on his 89^th birthday to acknowledge him as the Supreme Ruler of Tibet. For Tibetans, the title Dalai Lama is all about the Institution of the Dalai Lama that rules and governs Tibet. No other institution of government can replace Supreme Ruler of Tibet during his lifetime.

The Living Tibetan Spirits offer their prayers for a safe return of the Supreme Ruler of Tibet to the Potala Palace for a happy reunion with Tibetans living in his Land.

Rudra Narasimham Rebbapragada
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE-ESTABLISHMENT NO. 22-VIKAS REGIMENT

Celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th Birthday

Whole Dude – Whole Day – World Tibet Day. **The Supreme Ruler of Tibet celebrates his 88th birthday in exile**

His Holiness the Dalai Lama being presented with the traditional ‘Chema Changphu’ on his arrival at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard to attend celebrations to mark his 88th birthday in Dharamsala, HP, India on July 6, 2023. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, India – This morning, His Holiness the Dalai Lama stepped into the temple courtyard adjacent to his residence, a radiant smile on his face. He was presented with the traditional ‘Chema Changphu’ as artistes from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) sang their welcome to him on his birthday. He took his seat below the temple at the head of the courtyard with members of his family sitting directly behind him and members of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), past and present, behind him on either side.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering speaking at the celebrations marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th birthday at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard in Dharamsala, HP, India on July 6, 2023. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, addressing the crowd at the celebrations marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th birthday at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard in Dharamsala, HP, India on July 6, 2023. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Children from the TCV Day School in McLeod Ganj performing during the celebrations marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th birthday at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard in Dharamsala, HP, India on July 6, 2023. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

At this point the moderator invited His Holiness to address the gathering.

“Today,” he responded, “I’d like to tell all my friends that my daily prayer is as follows:

As long as space endures,
And as long as sentient beings remain,
Until then, may I too remain
To help dispel the misery of the world.

“As long as there are living sentient beings who want happiness, I will come in life after life to help them.

“Due to karma and prayers I have made in the past, I was born in Amdo and since then I’ve done the best I could to help all sentient beings.

“Today, you are celebrating my 88th birthday, but when I look in the mirror, I feel I look as if I’m still in my 50s. My face doesn’t look old, it isn’t wrinkled with age. What’s more I still have all my teeth so there’s nothing I can’t eat or chew.

“I was born in Tibet and I bear this name Dalai Lama, but in addition to working for the cause of Tibet, I’ve been working for the welfare of all sentient beings. I’ve done whatever I could without losing hope or allowing my determination to flag. I’m angry with no one, not even those Chinese leaders who have adopted a harsh attitude towards Tibet. Indeed, China has historically been a Buddhist country as witnessed by the many temples and monasteries I saw when I visited that land.

“I believe there is knowledge within Tibetan culture and religion that can benefit the world at large. However, I also respect all other religious traditions because they encourage their followers to cultivate love and compassion.

“According to indications in my own dreams and other predictions, I expect to live to be more than 100 years old. I’ve served others until now and I’m determined to continue to do so. Please pray for my long life on that basis.

“At our last meeting Mao Zedong praised my scientific outlook but criticized religion as poison. I think the point of religion isn’t just to say prayers but to engage in helping and serving others. I believe there’s a resonance of this even in the communist way of thinking and I sometimes wonder if I met Mao today whether I couldn’t talk him round. Religion is about living a good life in the service of others.

“As I already mentioned, there are indications that I will live for another 15 or 20 years and in that time, there is hope for change in the world—for the elimination of weapons and the use of military force. May people learn to live in peace and friendship.

“The scriptures suggest that eventually the world may be consumed by fire, but until that happens, we must learn to live in a more peaceful, friendly way. If we practise well now while we can, in due course we will take our message to other world systems.

“I’m not very concerned with the name Dalai Lama, what interests me much more is being of service to others. Of course, I need food and drink to survive, but not much else. My prime concern is to serve other beings—thank you.”

**The Supreme Ruler of Tibet celebrates his 89th birthday in exile**

WORLD TIBET DAY - MONDAY, JULY 06, 2015. — **Whole Dude – Whole Day – World Tibet Day. The Supreme Ruler of Tibet celebrates his 89th birthday in exile**

Whole Dude – Whole Regret

On the 35th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square Massacre, the Living Tibetan Spirits regret Tibet’s Policy of Isolationism

**Bharat Darshan revisits the past on the 35th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square Massacre**

On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, the 35th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square Massacre, The Living Tibetan Spirits revisit the past; the spread of Communism to mainland China in 1949.

Today, on Tuesday, June 04, 2024 The Living Tibetan Spirits regret Tibet’s decision to pursue the policy of Isolationism while confronting the grave threat posed by Communist takeover of mainland China. In 1943, Tibet had the opportunity to establish formal diplomatic relationships with the United States and other countries of Free World to prevent the spread of Communism to Asia.

Tibet’s unwillingness to openly resist Communism in 1943 is a crucial factor contributing to the loss of human rights in mainland China.

Special Frontier Force-Establishment No. 22-Vikas Regiment regrets Tibet’s Policy of Isolationism in 1943

CALLS FOR CHINA TO FACE GHOSTS OF ITS PAST ON TIANANMEN ANNIVERSARY

Clipped from: https://www.voanews.com/a/calls-for-china-to-face-ghosts-of-its-past-on-tiananmen-anniversary/4423377.html

FILE – A Chinese man stands alone to block a line of tanks heading east on Beijing’s Cangan Boulevard in Tiananmen Square, June 5, 1989.

BEIJING —

The United States has added its voice to international calls for China’s communist-led government to give a full public accounting of those who were killed, detained or went missing during the violent suppression of peaceful demonstrations in and around Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989.

In a bold statement from Washington to mark the 29th anniversary of a bloody crackdown that left hundreds — some say thousands — dead, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called on Chinese authorities to release “those who have been jailed for striving to keep the memory of Tiananmen Square alive; and to end the continued harassment of demonstration participants and their families.”

University students place flowers on the “Pillar of Shame” statue, a memorial for those injured and killed in the Tiananmen crackdown, at the University of Hong Kong, June 4, 2018.

To this day, open discussion of the topic remains forbidden in China and the families of those who lost loved ones continue to face oppression. Chinese authorities have labeled the protests a counter-revolutionary rebellion and repeatedly argued that a clear conclusion of the events was reached long ago.

In an annual statement on the tragedy, the group Tiananmen Mothers urged President Xi Jinping in an open letter to “re-evaluate the June 4th massacre” and called for an end to their harassment.

“Each year when we would commemorate our loved ones, we are all monitored, put under surveillance, or forced to travel” to places outside of China’s capital, the letter said. The advocacy group Human Rights in China released the open letter from the Tiananmen Mothers ahead of the anniversary.

“No one from the successive governments over the past 29 years has ever asked after us, and not one word of apology has been spoken from anyone, as if the massacre that shocked the world never happened,” the letter said.

FILE – A woman reacts during a candlelight vigil to mark the 28th anniversary of the crackdown of the pro-democracy movement at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in 1989, at Victoria Park in Hong Kong, China June 4, 2017.

In his statement, Pompeo also said that on the anniversary “we remember the tragic loss of innocent lives,” adding that as Liu Xiaobo wrote in his 2010 Nobel Peace Prize speech, “the ghosts of June 4th have not yet been laid to rest.”

FILE – Liu Xia, wife of deceased Chinese Nobel Peace Prize-winning dissident Liu Xiaobo and other relatives attend his sea burial off the coast of Dalian, China, in this photo released by Shenyang Municipal Information Office July 15, 2017.

Liu was unable to receive his Nobel prize in person in 2010 and died in custody last year. The dissident writer played an influential role in the Tiananmen protests and was serving an 11-year sentence for inciting subversion of state power when he passed.

At a regular press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China had lodged “stern representations” with the United States over the statement on Tiananmen.

“The United States year in, year out issues statements making ‘gratuitous criticism’ of China and interfering in China’s internal affairs,” Hua said. “The U.S. Secretary of State has absolutely no qualifications to demand the Chinese government do anything,” she added.

In a statement on Twitter, which is blocked in China like many websites, Hu Xijin, the editor of the party-backed Global Times, called the statement a “meaningless stunt.”

In another post he said: “what wasn’t achieved through a movement that year will be even more impossible to be realized by holding whiny commemorations today.”

Commemorations for Tiananmen are being held across the globe to mark the anniversary and tens of thousands are expected to gather in Hong Kong, the only place in China such large-scale public rallies to mark the incident can be held.

A man wipes the face of a statue of the Goddess of Democracy at Hong Kong’s Victoria Park Monday, June 4, 2018.

Exiled Tiananmen student protest leader Wu’Er Kaixi welcomed the statement from Pompeo.

However, he added that over the past 29 years western democracies appeasement of China has nurtured the regime into an imminent threat to freedom and democracy.

“The world bears a responsibility to urge China, to press on the Chinese regime to admit their wrongdoing, to restore the facts and then to console the dead,” he said. “And ultimately to answer the demands of the protesters 29 years ago and put China on the right track to freedom and democracy.”

Wu’er Kaixi fled China after the crackdown and now resides in Taiwan where he is the founder of Friends of Liu Xiaobo. The group recently joined hands with several other non-profit organizations and plans to unveil a sculpture in July — on the anniversary of his death — to commemorate the late Nobel laureate. The sculpture will be located near Taiwan’s iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper.

In Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy that China claims is a part of its territory, political leaders from both sides of the isle have also urged China’s communist leaders to face the past.

On Facebook, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen noted that it was only by facing up to its history that Taiwan has been able to move beyond the tragedies of the past.

“If authorities in Beijing can face up to the June 4th incident and acknowledge that at its roots it was a state atrocity, the unfortunate history of June 4th could become a cornerstone for China to move toward freedom and democracy,” Tsai said.

Tsai’s predecessor, Ma Ying-jeou, a member of the opposition Nationalist Party or KMT, who saw close ties with China while in office, also urged Beijing to face up to history and help heal families’ wounds.

“Only by doing this can the Chinese communists bridge the psychological gap between the people on both sides of the [Taiwan] Strait and be seen by the world as a real great power,” Ma said.

Whole Dude – Whole Vikas – Whole Tribute

For the very first time since its inception, a fallen soldier of Special Frontier Force gets a public funeral

I have been demanding for a long time to give public recognition to the fallen soldiers of Special Frontier Force. Finally, on September 07, 2020, Company Leader Nyima Tenzin of Special Frontier Force has departed from us with due public honor. This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India.

For the very first time since its inception, a fallen soldier of Vikas Regiment, Special Frontier Force gets a public funeral.

India’s Special frontier force’s Tibetan soldier Nyima Tenzin cremated with full public honor

This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India. Army officials pay tribute to Vikas Regiment, Special Frontier Force (SFF) commando Nyima Tenzin during a wreath-laying ceremony in Devachan, Leh.(PTI)

With his body wrapped in Indian and Tibetan flags, Tenzin was cremated as the atmosphere reverberated with slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, “We salute Indian army”. The Indian National anthem was also sung along with the anthem of Tibetan Government in Exile which is considered as the Tibetan National Anthem written in 1950.

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ram Madhav’s presence at the official funeral of a Tibetan soldier from the secretive Special Frontier Force (SFF) on Monday created a flutter in diplomatic and political circles amid the border standoff with China.

The funeral of SFF Company Leader Nyima Tenzin, killed in a landmine blast in an operation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during August 29-30, was held at Leh in the union territory of Ladakh. The funeral cortege was joined by scores of cars and motorcycles and people waving the Indian and Tibetan flags.

Tenzin’s coffin, carried in an army truck, was draped in the Indian tricolor and Tibetan flag, which were handed over to his widow at the funeral. Experts noted this was probably the first time an SFF personnel who died in action was given a public funeral, complete with military honors and a volley of shots by a ceremonial guard.

Following the protocol for those killed in action, Indian Army troops folded the two flags and handed them over to Tenzin’s wife. Tenzin had 33 years of service in the SFF. He leaves behind his wife and three children. This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India. Tenzin Yangkey, a student, said that they came to the funeral to pay tributes to a man who sacrificed his life for India. “We are all proud of him,” Yangkey said.

During the operation, another junior soldier Tenzin Loden, 24, was critically injured in the same explosion, and is currently undergoing treatment at the military hospital in Leh, Ladakh. The injured Tenzin Loden is from the same settlement.

BJP national general secretary Madhav posted photos of the funeral and paid tribute to Tenzin on Twitter but subsequently deleted the tweet. Screenshots of his tweet, which were widely shared, showed he had posted: “Attended [the] funeral of SFF Coy Ldr Nyima Tenzin, a Tibetan who laid down his life protecting our borders in Ladakh, and laid a wreath as a tribute. Let [the] sacrifices of such valiant soldiers bring peace along the Indo-Tibetan border. That will be [the] real tribute to all martyrs.”

People present at the funeral shouted slogans such as “Bharat Mata ki jai”, “Tibet desh ki jai”, “Vikas Regiment zindabad” and “We salute Tenzin”. SFF is also known as Establishment 22 and Vikas Regiment. Banners put up at the funeral site by SFF ex-servicemen described Tenzin as a soldier who “sacrificed his life to protect his second homeland India fighting common enemy China”.

Madhav spoke to the media at the funeral, saying in Hindi that he hoped Tenzin’s sacrifice “will bring peace to the border” and that “efforts are on to end the tension”. He added, “We hope peace will be restored soon.”

People familiar with developments said Madhav hadn’t attended the funeral as a representative of the government. On Sunday, Madhav began a two-day visit to Ladakh, a union territory that was carved out of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, whose special status was scrapped in August 2019.

However, the move marks a shift from the government’s reported decision in early 2018 asking officials and leaders to skip events which were being organised at the time to mark the Dalai Lama’s 60 years in exile. As the government worked to improve ties with China, especially through the mechanism of informal summits, the Tibet issue was largely sidelined.

SFF was raised with former Tibetan guerrillas in 1962 and went on to see action during the 1971 war with Pakistan that led to the creation of Bangladesh and the 1999 Kargil conflict. It is led by army officers and most of its personnel are men of Tibetan origin.

Amitabh Mathur, a former special secretary in the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) who advised the government on issues related to Tibet, said it made sense for India to use a force such as SFF in the current scenario because of the special skills of its personnel. “They are used to operating at high altitudes and it would be an enormous waste if they are kept away from the terrain where they are most useful,” he said.

However, he said the Indian side will have to ensure that their use is followed up with other messages that reach the overall Tibetan community and a consistent policy. “There has to be some sort of gesture, an overt sign and this message should reach the Tibetans in Tibet,” he added.

The funeral this morning of Company Leader Nyima Tenzin, the Tibetan-Indian soldier in the Special Frontier Force who laid down his life fighting for India against the Chinese PLA.

Rest in Peace, braveheart. pic.twitter.com/Vy0ojkQAG7
— Ajai Shukla (@ajaishukla) September 7, 2020

This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India.

#WATCH People raise 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' chants at the funeral of Special Frontier Force Commando Nyima Tenzin in Devachan, Leh today. He had lost his life in an anti-personnel mine blast near the Line of Actual Control in the last week of August pic.twitter.com/K37bvawvdw
— ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2020

This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India.

Right now in Leh, a final farewell to Vikas Regiment company leader Nyima Tenzin, who died during the August 29-30 mission to Kaala Top. pic.twitter.com/dgdY5bUWAu
— Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) September 7, 2020

This is the first time a Tibetan’s sacrifice is known to all of India.

Whole Dude – Whole Review – Whole Affiliation

Movie TE3N Reveals My lifetime affiliation with Vikas Regiment

TE3N Movie on Netflix.com reveals my lifetime affiliation with Vikas Regiment also known as Establishment No. 22, Special Frontier Force.: This badge depicting the Snow Lion represents a military alliance/pact between India, Tibet, and the United States of America. Its first combat mission was in the Chittagong Hill Tracts which unfolded during October 1971. It was named Operation Eagle. It accomplished its mission of securing peace in the region that is now known as Republic of Bangladesh.

I served in Special Frontier Force- Headquarters Establishment No. 22-Vikas Regiment from September 22, 1971, to December 10, 1974. My affiliation with Vikas Regiment survives to this date as I host ‘The Living Tibetan Spirits’ in my consciousness since 1971 Bangladesh Ops (India-Pakistan War of 1971 that lead to the Liberation of Bangladesh). Because of my affiliation with Vikas Regiment, my Indian Army Picture ID photo image of 1972 appears in a scene in the TE3N movie of 2016.

I have three reasons why I reside in the United States since July 1986.

**TE3N Movie Review – Indian Army vs Special Frontier Force. Army Act 1950 did not govern my Military Conduct during 1971 Bangladesh Ops for the Act does not govern Special Frontier Force.**

My first reason to reside in the United States is that of staying away from India, the country of my origin.

TE3N Movie on Netflix.com REVEALS THE DARKEST FEAR OF MY LIFE — **THE TE3N MOVIE OF 2016 ON NETFLIX.com REVEALS MY LIFETIME AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT SINCE 1971.**

My second reason to reside in the United States is that of staying away from the military organization called Special Frontier Force which is also popularly known as Establishment No. 22 which is renamed as Vikas Regiment.

The third reason for residing in the United States is that of my Enemy keeping me under surveillance while the Government of India denies me my right to Self-Defense.

TE3N MOVIE REVIEW - TRANSPARENCY AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY. TE3N DVD DISTRIBUTED BY RELIANCE ENTERTAINMENT. — **TE3N MOVIE OF 2016. THE TE3N MOVIE DVD IS DISTRIBUTED BY RELIANCE ENTERTAINMENT AND NETFLIX.com. IT REVEALS MY LIFETIME AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT SINCE 1971**

In the interests of promoting transparency and public accountability in governance by either Public or Private entities, I am sharing the contents of my electronic communication with Reliance Entertainment.

**THE TE3N MOVIE OF 2016 REVEALS MY LIFETIME AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT SINCE 1971.**

TE3N Pre-recorded DVD – Photo Images.

Dear Sir,

1. On behalf of Special Frontier Force, I am pleased to inform you that a few photo images included in the screenshot of Section.15 of TE3N Pre-recorded DVD, PKD: July/2016 belong to our military organization, people currently affiliated to the organization under terms and conditions established by Government of India.

2. The Movie TE3N is the remake of a South Korean film, and inclusion of the photo images of personnel affiliated to Special Frontier Force is of interest. My organization would like to mention that the Movie Production Team made the decision to use these images giving general public or viewers a mistaken notion about our identity. Special Frontier Force represents a military organization distinct from the Indian Army while it draws Indian Army personnel apart from other nationals.

3. I warmly appreciate artistic freedom exercised by Producer Sujoy Ghosh and Director Ribhu Dasgupta in producing Movie TE3N.

Thanking You,

Yours Sincerely,

Rudra Narasimham Rebbapragada
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-4162 USA
SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE-ESTABLISHMENT No. 22-VIKAS REGIMENT

**TE3N MOVIE OF 2016. THE MOVIE IMAGE OF MS-8466 CAPTAIN R R NARASIMHAM, AMC REVEALS MY AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT.**

**TE3N MOVIE OF 2016. INDIA-PAKISTAN WAR, THE BANGLADESH OPs, OPERATION EAGLE, 1971-72 REVEALS MY AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT SINCE 1971.**

**TE3N MOVIE OF 2016. OPERATION EAGLE, 1971 INDIA – PAKISTAN WAR, BANGLADESH OPs REVEAL MY AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT.**

**TE3N Movie of 2016 reveals my affiliation with Vikas Regiment. The1972 Indian Army Picture ID Image of MS-8466 Captain R R Narasimham, AMC**

**TE3N MOVIE OF 2016 REVEALS MY AFFILIATION WITH VIKAS REGIMENT. SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE CELEBRATES ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH INDIAN ARMED FORCES.**

Whole Dude – Whole Refugee

The Supreme Ruler of Tibet Marks 65 Years in Exile

**Supreme Ruler of Tibet Marks 65th Milestone of Life’s Journey in Exile.**

**On Sunday, March 31, 2024, the Supreme Ruler of Tibet Marks 65th Milestone of Life’s Journey in Exile.**

From March 31, 1959 to March 31, 2024, the Living Tibetan Spirits record Sixty-Five Years of Life’s Journey in Exile. The Struggle is not over and yet it is time to take a deep breath and say Thank You India and Thank You America.

In the Indian Tradition, the number 60 is very significant for Indians recognize Sixty specific names to mark Years for purposes of timekeeping. The Cyclical Flow of Time continues in sets of Sixty Years.

Living Tibetan Spirits of Special Frontier Force – Establishment 22 – Vikas Regiment record Life in Exile

DALAI LAMA: ‘DON’T KNOW HOW LONG STRUGGLE FOR TIBET WILL LAST’

Clipped from: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/dont-know-how-long-struggle-for-tibet-will-last/articleshow/63563896.cms

Supreme Ruler of Tibet Marks 65th Milestone of Life’s Journey in Exile. “Thank You India” a cultural program organized in McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, India on Saturday, March 31, 2018 to mark the 60th Anniversary of Life in Exile.

I do not know for how long the Tibetan struggle will go on. However, the struggle will remain alive till the spirit of Tibetans remains,” the spiritual leader of Tibetans The Dalai Lama said at the “Thank You India” program being held at McLeod Ganj on Saturday, March 31, 2018 to mark his arrival in India, exactly 60 years ago.

On March 14, 1959, the Dalai Lama was forced to flee Tibet following failed uprising against China. After he took shelter in India, Tibetan community across globe under his leadership launched struggle for free Tibet but till date have not succeeded. During last few years, the demand has changed into one for autonomous Tibet.

While interacted with media persons, the Dalai Lama, when questioned about the possibility of Tibetans returning to their homeland one day, replied that Tibetan issue is an issue of justice. While commenting on the equation between India and China, he said that both were most populated countries of the World and both have ability to destroy each other.

“Any sensible person would want ‘Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai’ to live together. None of them can be disloyal to each other, so other things will go on by the side,” he said. “Confrontation does not yield any result and amicable solution of Tibet problem is the only way out,” the Nobel Peace Laureate said.

“The Chinese are following a socialist form of government, which means everybody should have equal rights. We are not demanding separation from China, but the Tibetan people should have the autonomy to preserve their culture, language, environment and religion,” he added.

Earlier, the Dalai Lama recalled his journey in exile. He said that no time was wasted in these years. “It is a matter of pride that Tibetans have preserved their tradition and culture, wherever they are living across the globe,” he said.

He said that as there was need to preserve Tibetan culture and language, a logical analysis was also the need of hour. “When everybody is praising Tibetans it becomes our responsibility too to check where we were lacking,” he said.

Glimpses of 65 Years Life in Exile

Supreme Ruler of Tibet Marks 65th Milestone of Life’s Journey in Exile. “Thank You India” Year 2018 Calendar marks the 60th Anniversary of Life in Exile. His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in Mussoorie, on April 04, 1959.

Whole Dude – Whole Destination

WHAT IS MY FINAL DESTINATION?

In my Consciousness, I host ‘The Living Tibetan Spirits’, the Spirits of young Tibetan Soldiers who gave their precious lives in the Chittagong Hill Tracts during Bangladesh Ops of 1971.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his desire to return to his home in Tibet. I admit that myself and ‘The Tibetan Living Spirits’ have no Home or Place that we may claim as our own.

What is my Final Destination? I have no answer. If not His Holiness, I need Manjushree (Manjusri) Bodhisattva of Wisdom to give the Blessings of Compassion to complete my mortal journey with or without reaching a Final Destination.

DALAI LAMA, CHINA AND THE HOMECOMING URGE

By CLAUDE ARPI

Clipped from: http://www.dailypioneer.com/columnists/edit/dalai-lama-china-and-the-homecoming-urge.html

It has been a lifetime wish for the Lama to visit Wutaishan, his native town. But he must follow his own saying: Look at situations from all angles. It is unwise for him to go on pilgrimage in China right now.

At the end of 2017, Prof Samdhong Rinpoche, former Chairman of the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala and now, the Dalai Lama’s Special Envoy, went to China to ‘negotiate’ an eventual visit of the Tibetan leader to Wutaishan in Shanxi Province of northern China.

Mount Wutai is said to be one of the four sacred mountains in Buddhism. Each of the mountains is viewed as the abode of one of the four great bodhisattvas. Wutai is the home of Manjushree, the Bodhisattva of wisdom.

Since decades, the Dalai Lama has expressed the wish to visit Wutaishan in his lifetime. While in China, Samdhong Rinpoche is said to have met senior officials of the United Front Work Department in Kunming and Wutaishan to discuss the proposed visit, which would exclude Tibet, as Beijing does not want to see the Dalai Lama returning to his native land, where he is immensely popular.

Beijing believes that China could benefit from the visit by extracting a ‘statement’ from the Dalai Lama. But can the Tibetan leader ‘admit’ to Tibet always ‘belonging’ to China?

In his Five-Point Peace Plan speech in Washington DC in 1987, which heralded his Middle Way approach, the Dalai Lama stated: “The real issue …is China’s illegal occupation of Tibet, which has given it direct access to the Indian sub-continent. The Chinese authorities have attempted to confuse the issue by claiming that Tibet has always been a part of China. This is untrue. Tibet was a fully independent State when the People’s Liberation Army invaded the country in 1949/50.”

The Dalai Lama knows history can’t (and shouldn’t) be changed. In 1987, the Lama stated: “China’s aggression, condemned by virtually all nations of the free world, was a flagrant violation of international law. …China’s military occupation of Tibet continues.”

The recent secret, though formal, contacts between Beijing and Dharamshala, could make the public believe that there was a relaxation of the Chinese position. It is not the case.

On February 11, The Global Times reported: “The public security bureau (PSB) in Southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region has released details on how the public can provide tips on activities of criminal gangs connected to the separatist forces of the Dalai Lama.”

Practically, it means that the Tibetans, who worship, or even simply respect, the Dalai Lama could now be termed criminals?

The mouthpiece of the Party continued: “[the circular] warns local people to be on the lookout for the ‘evil forces’ of the Dalai Lama that might use local temples and religious control to confuse and incite people against the Party and Government.”

The circular asked people to report on the activities of ‘foreign hostile forces’. Interestingly, a few weeks ago, Beijing announced the nomination of three Han cadres in the 20-member Tibet delegation to the National People’s Congress (NPC).

One of the delegates is Zhao Kezhi, the Minister of Public Security, responsible for the dreaded PSBs; he will ‘represent’ Tibet at the NPC. Probably wanting to show the leadership his efficiency, Zhao acted fast; the PSB’s circular said: “Criminal gangs are cancers on the healthy economic and social development, and gangsters are a chronic disease that severely disgusts the public”.

It listed 22 illegal activities to be reported to the PSB; three of them mention the ‘Dalai’s clique’: “The Dalai Lama has been in exile for decades but still holds the ambition to split China’s Tibet from the Chinese territory.”

Dai, a professor at Public Security University of China told The Global Times: “Collusion with criminal gangs is a tactic the Dalai group uses to spreading its message of separatism. These kinds of gangsters were involved in the Lhasa rebellion in the 1950s and the violent incident in 2008 in Tibet.”

Dai added “the spread of separatist gangs in Tibet is rampant. Only a campaign against the ‘gangsters’ would deter secessionist activities by the Dalai.”

Wang Xiaobin, a Chinese scholar at the Beijing-based China Tibetology Research Center, explained that the primary task for Tibet is “to maintain national and ethnic unity”. He cited a few groups in China “closely connected with the Dalai group…The Dalai group always interferes in national affairs by controlling temples, including lamas and living Buddhas, and by spreading a kind of ‘middle way’ to the world.”

Xinhua had earlier reported that the campaign would involve targeting “protective umbrellas of gang crime — the officials who shelter the criminals.”

This explains another Han nomination in the NPC’s Tibet delegation, Jing Hanchao, who is currently Vice-President of the Supreme People’s Court. Jing will make sure that the ‘criminals’ caught in the nets of Zhao Kezhi are heavily sentenced.

All this comes at a time when Beijing has just introduced sophisticated facial recognition software on the plateau. The circular promised that the PSB informers’ identity and safety will be protected: “The targets are gangsters who threaten political stability and infiltrate politics, or encourage the public to go against the Party.”

Beijing has also taken the campaign against the Dalai Lama internationally; there too it has been ferocious.

On February 8, The People’s Daily Online titled: ‘Mercedes-Benz: Don’t dare challenge China’s core interest’ while announcing that the German car company had apologized for quoting the Dalai Lama ‘in an extremely wrong message’. What did Mercedes-Benz do so wrong?

Next to one of its luxury cars, the German firm had quoted the Dalai Lama: “Look at situations from all angles, and you will become more open.”

You may think that it is a nice quote, but Beijing is not amused: “The post not only hurt the feelings of the Chinese people, but also challenged their bottom line on national sovereignty.”

The challenge is clear: If the firm, which sold 600,000 new cars in China in 2017, wants to continue to do business in the Middle Kingdom, it has to follow the paranoid regime’s diktats. The same misadventure had recently happened to the US hotel chain Marriott, who had to profusely apologize for wrongly marking Tibet and Taiwan as independent countries.

President Xi Jinping would have said in 2015 that foreign interference in China’s domestic affairs is intolerable: “Country, enterprise, or individual should not challenge the core interests of China, and [have] any activity to split China.”

Even after due apology by Mercedes-Benz, the Chinese newspaper said that “the apology lacks sincerity and reflects the German carmaker’s lack of understanding of Chinese culture and values. China’s core interests cannot be challenged.”

The paper even compared the Dalai Lama to Hitler: “How will the German people react if a foreign enterprise speaks highly of Adolf Hitler.”

It seems definitely unwise for the Dalai Lama, considered by Beijing as the ‘head of the gangsters’, to go on pilgrimage in China right now. Let us hope that the spiritual leader will not accept the diktats of the bully regime in Beijing.

(The writer is an expert on India-China relations and an author)

Whole Dude – Whole Emptiness

THE SPIRITS OF SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE WELCOME HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA TO ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN. — **Whole Dude – Whole Emptiness: THE LIVING TIBETAN SPIRITS WELCOME HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA TO ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN.**

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama spoke on “Engaging Wisdom and Compassion” on April 19-20, 2008 at Crisler Arena, the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

**Whole Dude – Whole Emptiness: The Living Tibetan Spirits Welcome His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to Ann Arbor, MI, USA.**

The concept of ‘Sunyata’ (Emptiness or Nothingness):

The emptying of the mind and the attainment of an undifferentiated unity is a theme of the ‘Sunyata’ doctrine developed by Acharya Nagarjuna. ‘Sunyata’ can be stated as a state of “pure consciousness” in which the mind has been emptied of all particular objects and images. The emptied mind reflects or manifests the undifferentiated reality in which the world appears without distinction and multiplicity.

H.H. Dalai Lama’s presentation:

“At the root of all our suffering lies a form of ignorance, a form of unknowing”. The origin of suffering is attachment. “Self-grasping (or self-focus) gives rise to suffering. It is the root of all afflictions.” “Self-grasping” leads to attachment to impermanent things or thoughts which gives rise to suffering. Emptiness is created by casting aside the attachment to everyday things and worries.

H.H. Dalai Lama advised practicing loving kindness to eliminate the afflictions caused by attachment. The goal, he said is,”Cultivating the Wisdom of no self,” a sense of grand emptiness that leaves behind everyday pollutants that can take both physical or emotional form.

THE SPIRITS OF SPECIAL FRONTIER FORCE:

Special Frontier Force is a multinational defense plan to defend freedom and democracy in the occupied Land of Tibet. I emptied my mind of all desires. The Spirits that inhabit my Consciousness seek Freedom in their Land of origin.

The Living Tibetan Spirits

Whole Valentine – Whole Pledge

Old Flames Never Die – A Pledge to my Valentine

**Old Flames Never Die: The year 2010 is the **Year of the Male Iron Tiger** (*lcags-pho stag-lo)*. The first day falls on February 14, 2010, or Tibetan New Year 2137.**

My consciousness got exposed to the Spirits of some young Tibetan soldiers whose untimely deaths I had witnessed. I dedicate this blog post to those Living Tibetan Spirits that continue to live in my consciousness.

Who is my Valentine?

The word Valentine as a noun describes a Sweetheart chosen on St. Valentine’s Day (February 14). A note or greeting card sent to Sweetheart on this Day containing a message of sentimental love is also described as a Valentine. This year’s Valentine’s Day is of special significance to the Tibetan people as they ushered the New Year of Iron Tiger Year 2137 of their Lunar Calendar. On this Valentine’s Day, I want to assure my Valentine that the burning passion aroused in me is alive and has not died.

After attending Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, India, I joined the Indian Army on July 26, 1970. On July 26, 1971, I completed my military and professional training at Military Hospital, Ambala Cantonment, Haryana and was fully ready to serve the nation in my role as a Medical Officer of the Indian Army Medical Corps. I left Ambala on September 21, 1971 on my first posting. On September 22, 1971 after reaching my new Duty Station I met my Flame. The Flame kindled a fire in my heart. That fire still burns.

**Old Flames Never Die – A Pledge to my Valentine. These Flames kindled a fire in my heart on September 22, 1971 and that fire still burns. I shall keep the Flame alive in my future.**

As the saying goes, “Old Flames Never Die”. The Flame lives in my Consciousness. On this Valentine’s Day, I pledge that I will keep the Flame alive in my future. The message that I want to send to my Valentine is ; “My past, my present, and my future is a continuum.” I share the pain and grief that my Valentine has experienced in the past and is experiencing now. We both understand the Challenge, share a common hope and expectation of a better future. The Spirit of my Valentine languishes in Darkness. The darkness of military occupation has enveloped my Flame threatening her very existence. She needs a breath of fresh air to survive. I promise that I am the Breath of my Valentine’s life.

**Old Flames Never Die: I seek the Compassion of Buddha to keep the Flame Alive and fulfil the Pledge made to my Valentine.**

The Butter Lamps lit in my Unit’s Gonpa (Gompa) are still glowing. I seek the Compassion of Buddha to keep the Flames Alive.

Buddham Saranam Gacchami,

Dhammam Saranam Gachhami,

Sangham Saranam Gachhami.

I seek the Path of Triple Refuge to keep the Old Flames Alive. I seek the Refuge of Buddha. I seek the Refuge of ‘Dharma’. I seek the Refuge of ‘Sangha’.

**Old Flames Never Die: I seek the Compassion of Buddha to keep the Flame Alive and fulfil the Pledge made to my Valentine. The Path of Triple Refuge to keep the Old Flames Alive.**

Tibetan New Year -Losar – Iron Tiger Year 2137:

Tibetans celebrate their New Year in the traditions of their Lunar Calendar. The Valentine’s Day this year has coincided with their New Year – LOSAR celebration. In due recognition of the pain, suffering, and misery that is experienced by Tibetans inside Tibet, and to honor the memory of Tibetans who lost their lives during 2008 protests, the Tibetan Community has refused to celebrate LOSAR during 2009. I send my greetings of “TASHI DELEK” to all of my associates and people who defend Tibetan Identity.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Attends Religious Ceremonies on Tibetan New Year

**His Holiness the Dalai Lama leads an early morning prayer ceremony in Dharamsala on 14 February 2010. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor, OHHDL)**

Dharamsala, HP, India, 14 February 2010 (tibet.net) – His Holiness the Dalai Lama presided over religious ceremonies at the main Buddhist temple in Dharamsala this morning, marking Losar or the “Year 2137 of the Iron-Tiger” of Tibetan calender.

Later, His Holiness the Dalai Lama delivered a brief address to thousands of Tibetans gathered for the ceremony.

His Holiness offered greetings to Tibetans living inside and outside Tibet and people of the Himalayan region who share same culture and religion as Tibetans. His Holiness extended his good wishes and gratitude to the international community for taking interest in and supporting the just cause of Tibetans.

“Despite facing great problems in Tibet for many years, the Tibetan people living inside have shown indomitable courage and sincerity in standing up to the situation,” said His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

His Holiness said “Tibetans in living in many parts of Tibet are marking the year as a year of remembrance of Tibetan people’s suffering,” adding that “they refrain from festivities during the Losar.” With such sentiments of our brethren in Tibet, His Holiness advised Tibetans to offer prayers by engaging in religious ceremonies and eschew festive celebrations.”

**His Holiness the Dalai Lama spaaks to thousands of Tibetans after attending religious ceremonies in Dharamsala on 14 February 2010. (Photo by Tenzin Choejor, OHHDL)**

His Holiness “reminds Tibetans living in the free world, not to forget the critical situation in Tibet”. “The Tibetans in exile must keep up their sincerity and courage like their brethren in Tibet,” His Holiness added.

Speaking of education, His Holiness “urged Tibetans, Mongolians and the people of Himalayan region to put more efforts in education, and to excel in the study of Tibetan Buddhism”. His Holiness “underlined the study of Tibet’s unique secular education, particularly the philosophy of religion”.

The day began at 7:00 am with an early morning ceremony of offering prayers and ceremonial cake(Tse-Tor) to goddess Palden Lhamo, the supreme hierarchy of Dharma protectors. The abbot of Namgyal Monastery offered Mendel Tensum, auspicious offerings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The officials of the Central Tibetan Administration, including the chief justice commissioner, justice commissioners, speaker and members of Tibetan Parliament, Kalon Tripa Prof Samdhong Rinpoche and members of the Kashag, were present.

This is was followed by another prayer service in the main shrine hall, during which the abbot of Namgyal Monastery, the chief justice commissioner, speaker of the Tibetan Parliament and Kalon Tripa, presented auspicious offerings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A group of monks participated in a religious debate.