Dharamshala: The Tibetan community in India, numbering around 70,000, continues to grapple with issues of identity and the yearning for their homeland. They are spread across 35 designated settlements and live on renewable registration certificates issued every five years. For those born in India, applying for a passport necessitates surrendering these certificates, a step many are hesitant to take due to its significance to their Tibetan identity.
According to BBC, the 90th birthday celebration of the Dalai Lama in July witnessed thousands of Tibetan Buddhists gathering in Dharamshala, the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), which acts as the Tibetan government-in-exile. While celebrating their leader’s long life, the community reflected on the uncertainties of living in exile, the emotional burdens of displacement, and the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Dalai Lama’s succession.
The history of Tibetan migration to India dates back to 1959, driven by the tightening control of China over their homeland. Dawa Sangbo, 85, recalls his arduous journey to Dharamshala in 1970, which involved a seven-day trek through Nepal. Despite finding security in India, many like Sangbo still yearn for their homeland.
The emotional toll is profound for younger Tibetans like Tenzin Tsundue, who were born in India. They express a sense of deprivation, feeling disconnected from their land, culture, and language. Lobsang Yangtso, a researcher, highlights the pain of statelessness and the lack of belonging, despite having spent her entire life in India.
The geopolitical tensions are further complicated by the Dalai Lama’s recent announcement regarding his successor, which China rejected, asserting its right to decide under its law. This dispute has been labeled a “thorn” in Sino-Indian relations. India maintains a neutral stance on the issue of religious practices, yet notable Indian officials joined the Dalai Lama on his birthday stage.
The question of what will become of the Tibetan movement after the Dalai Lama’s passing looms large. While some, like Tsering, are optimistic about the future continuity of the movement, others express concern over potential loss of support and resources that have been sustained by the current Dalai Lama’s influence.