By Wasfia Nazreen
Dharamsala, March 10 – Unlike Delhi, the 48th National Uprising day passed with much non-violence here in the Himalayan lands of the capital of the exiled Tibetans. The day began with the gathering of His Holiness the fourteenth Dalai Lama and Tibetan dignitaries, along with a fifteen-members All Party Indian Parliament Delegation, at the Tsuglakhang temple in Dharamsala. Honorary former Indian defense Minister and Member of Indian Parliament, George Fernandes, as well as Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha members graced the occasion.
Unlike the last four years of silent protests mostly comprising of prayers, this year’s march consisted of loud slogans and have been jointly organized by four non-governmental organizations: Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet (an association of former political prisoners from Tibet), Tibetan Women’s Association, Friends of Tibet India, and Students for a Free Tibet India.
A devastating rain once again hit Dharamsala occupant hard last night. Yet the spirit of the Tibetans remained strongly ignited throughout the day as they marched from the Main Temple to lower Dharamsala right after the formal government function. They were joined hand-in-hand by an overwhelming number of multi-national tourists, as well as Indians. After a successful rally all the way downhill to lower Dharamsala town, a gathering was held where Gyari Dolma, Deputy Speaker of Tibetan Parliament welcomed Shri Bashishtha Narain Singh, Shri Thupten Chhewang, Shrimati Maharani Pratibha and Shri Khiren Rijiju. The President of Gu Chu Sum, Ven. Ngawang Woebar concluded the ceremony with an encouraging speech in the midst of the drenching rain.
At the end of the speeches, ‘Dharma Bums’ performed the song ‘Rangzen’ in eight different languages, with the prayer that it would be heard loud and clear as far as Beijing. They are also scheduled to perform at Tipa later on this evening, after the candlelight vigil. The music concert at Tipa is scheduled to have former cabinet minister Sonam Topgyal as the guest speaker. The line of programs for the day also had a drama show at 2pm at the TIPA hall, held by the Gu Chu Sum movement of Tibet, which was free for the public.
Stay tuned to Phayul for more photo updates from the day.
