By Phuntsok Yangchen
DHARAMSHALA, July 14: In a move to introduce Tibetan medicine to Chinese speaking people, Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang), the premiere institute of Tibetan medicine of the Tibetan exiles, today launched a new Chinese language section.
The ceremony was attended by Sonam Choephel Shosur, Secretary of Department of Health; Topgyal Tsering, Secretary of Department of Education; Tashi Tsering, Director of Men-Tsee-Khang, staff and students.
Speaking at the function, Health Secretary Sonam Choephel Shosur noted the importance of Chinese language. “In 50s and 60s, we would get angry upon seeing someone speaking Chinese but now we feel glad to see one. And since we have to keep ties with the Chinese people, Chinese language is a must.”
He said the new Chinese section will benefit a lot of Chinese speaking people who want to study the rich tradition of Tibetan healing science.
TMAI Director Tashi Tsering said that the Chinese section was set up on the recommendation of the Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
There are currently five staff members in Chinese section. The office, currently located in Chauntra, will later shift to Bangalore where a branch institute of the TMAI is being constructed.
The new Chinese section will help to introduce Tibetan medicine and its characteristics to a number Chinese coming to Men-Tsee-Khang with an interest in Tibetan medicine, said Choelo Thar, Director of Chinese section.
A new Chinese website, both in Mandarin and Cantonese, will be available soon.
Established in 1916 by the Great 13th Dalai Lama in Tibet, Mentseekhang was re-established in exile in 1961 to promote and practise gSowa-rigpa, the Tibetan system of medicine, astronomy and astrology and provide accessible health care and produce Tibetan medicines in an environmentally sensitive manner.
