The Abbot further referred to the recent self-immolation of Lobga Rangzen in front of the UN Headquarters, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The Gangjong Opera Troupe from Kalimpong, West Bengal, specially invited for the event, presented Tibetan songs and dances, showcasing the richness of Tibetan culture.

Tenzin Thakpo (RDTS) spoke on the relevance of the Four Commitments in today’s world, marked by polarisation, conflict, inequality and mental health challenges. Professor M.N. Rajesh of the Department of History, University of Hyderabad, emphasised the strategic importance of Tibet, highlighting its geographical location and the vital role of its rivers as lifelines for downstream countries. He encouraged students to take interest in and conduct research on information that is often sidelined or inaccessible, particularly where it relates to Tibet’s geopolitical situation. During his address, Prof. Rajesh also spoke on China’s growing military strength, its economic expansion through debt-inducing loans to nearly one-third of the world’s countries, and its large-scale development projects, which have led to ecological degradation and widespread impacts on neighbouring countries and beyond.

Prof. Sujoy Chakravarthi recalled the special relationship shared between St. Joseph’s University and the Chief Representative Office, South Zone, and affirmed the university’s commitment to further strengthening the values of Indian traditional thought intertwined with Tibetan identity and culture. Reflecting on the university’s vibrant and cohesive environment, he noted that its academic excellence, professional achievements, and growing student enrolment have been made possible through meaningful dialogue and engagement among people of diverse backgrounds and traditions while upholding the institution’s core values. Recalling the visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the campus in 2011, Prof. Sujoy remarked that it had brought an enduring spirit of warmth and friendship to St. Joseph’s University, a memory that continues to be cherished.

The delegation later visited Surana College, where they were warmly welcomed by Dr. Veena K.N., Principal, along with Assistant Prof. Srivatsa K.R. of the Department of Humanities, Surana College Autonomous, Bengaluru, and his team. Khen Rinpoche shared insights on the importance of SEE Learning, stressing that education should not only impart knowledge but also cultivate compassion. The Principal expressed appreciation for the delegation’s visit and conveyed interest in hosting similar programmes in the future.

Tenzin Thakpo (RDTS) further elaborated on the profound significance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Four Commitments, noting that they are embodied in service to humanity through SEE (Social, Environment, and Economy) with a vision directed towards peace, the planet, and prosperity.

CRO Jigmey Tsultrim concluded the programme by thanking both institutions for their warm hospitality and for hosting cultural events in honour of the 91st birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.