Dharamshala: In observance of the 37th birthday of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, and to mark the 31st anniversary of his enforced disappearance by the Chinese government, the Central Tibetan Administration’s (CTA) Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) hosted a comprehensive pictorial exhibition at the Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School in Dharamshala, India.
Organized by the Tibet Advocacy Section of the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR), the event was designed to honor the Panchen Lama lineage and educate the younger generation of Tibetan students about his enduring importance. The initiative also sought to raise vital awareness among the youth regarding the ongoing global movement to secure the immediate release of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, from Chinese captivity.
The commemorative program commenced with an introductory session led by DIIR staff, followed by the screening of a 10-minute animated film detailing the recognition and subsequent abduction of the young Panchen Lama. Following the presentation, students and teachers were guided through a meticulously curated 16-panel exhibition. The displays provided profound insights into the historical significance of the Panchen Lama lineage, the life and legacy of the 10th Panchen Lama, and the tragic circumstances surrounding the abduction of the 11th Panchen Lama.
To ensure a comprehensive learning experience, each class was allotted 35 minutes to explore the exhibition. During this time, DIIR staff members, Tenzin Kunkhen, Rinchen and Nyima (intern) were present to engage directly with the students, facilitating discussions and answering their questions. The exhibition concluded successfully at 3:00 PM after all scheduled classes had the opportunity to attend.
The event saw active participation from the school’s academic community. A total of around 250 students and teachers attended the exhibition and film screening throughout the day, reflecting a strong collective commitment to remembering and advocating for the 11th Panchen Lama.
Both the exhibition panels and the animated film, which was originally released on his 35th birthday in 2024, were generously provided by Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in South India, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas.
– Report filed by the Tibet Advocacy Section, DIIR
