“Our community is our strength”: Sikyong Penpa Tsering calls for unity among Tibetans

Tibetan President in-exile Sikyong Penpa Tsering visited Hunsur Rabgyaling Settlement in Karnataka’s Hunsur and addressed various issues raised by the residents, including demands for enhancements in road conditions and housing amenities and called for unity among Tibetans.

Highlighting the significance of collective action, the Sikyong on Wednesday stated, “Individually we cannot do everything, but by working together, we can accomplish more.” He further emphasized unity by saying, “Our community is our strength; let’s reinforce that strength by fostering Tibetan unity across our settlements,” as cited by the CTA.

He participated as the chief guest in the Cham dance ceremony at Dzongkar Choede in the Tibetan Hunsur Rabgyaling. According to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the Cham dance, a sacred ritual performed by Buddhist monks, serves as a significant spiritual offering. The monks of Dzongkar Choede executed the performance on Tuesday as a prayer for the longevity of 14th Dalai Lama and the swift resolution of Tibet’s struggle.

The event was also attended by Tibetan Parliamentarian Migyur Dorjee, Chief Representative Officer Jigmey Tsultrim of the South Zone, Settlement Officer Norbu Tsering, abbots from local monasteries, representatives of the Local Tibetan Assembly, administrators and staff from schools, as well as delegates from ORTC Bylakuppe, as per the CTA.

After the ceremony, a symbolic fire ritual was performed to eliminate negativity and cleanse the surroundings, as reported by the CTA. The CTA indicated that Sikyong Penpa Tsering continued his official duties on Wednesday by visiting the Hunsur Rabgyaling Settlement, and starting his tour at M and O villages.

He was received warmly by Settlement Officer Norbu Tsering, Office Secretary Tashi Bhuti, local Tibetan association representatives, and community members. In his discussions with the public, the Sikyong addressed various issues raised by residents, including demands for enhancements in road conditions and housing amenities, as noted by the CTA.

The CTA report disclosed that throughout his visit, the Sikyong directly interacted with residents, listened to their concerns, and evaluated the needs of the Tibetan community in the settlement.

Once a sovereign nation with its own unique cultural, religious, and political identity, Tibet faced invasion by China in 1949. The 17-point agreement, signed under pressure in 1951, permitted China to enforce its rule, thereby stripping Tibet of its autonomy.

On March 10, 1959, a significant uprising against Chinese occupation in Tibet was violently crushed, forcing the Dalai Lama to seek refuge in exile and marking the commencement of Tibet’s struggle from abroad.