CONNECTICUT: At the invitation of the Tibetan Association of Connecticut, Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche and Representative Ngodup Tsering felicitated former Tibetan political prisoner and filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen on 16 June. Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche was welcomed by members of the Tibetan Association and Representative Ngodup Tsering.

Sonam Tsering, President of the Tibetan Association, read out the annual report of the association’s activities and spoke about the association’s efforts to instill the rich Tibetan culture in the younger generation of the Tibetan people. As this year is the advance obstacle year (according to Tibetan lunar calendar) for His Holiness, he urged everyone to pray for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s health and long life.

Film maker and former political prisoner Dhondup Wangchen spoke about his objectives for making the film ‘Leaving Fear Behind’ and the subsequent six year imprisonment pronounced by the Chinese government for making the film. He also spoke about his experiences in Chinese prison.

Representative Ngodup Tsering, in his address, greeted Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche on his upcoming 33rd birthday. He spoke about the importance of Tibetan unity and emphasized preservation of Tibetan language and culture. He highlighted His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration’s indispensable efforts in the Tibetan freedom movement. He also lauded Connecticut Tibetan Association’s initiative to honour Dhondup Wangchen.

Following the talks, the Tibetan Association requested Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche to present Dhondup Wangchen with an award in recognition of the Tibetan film maker’s indomitable spirit and determination.

Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche conferred Manjushri Initiation and addressed the Tibetan public. In his address, he expressed his pleasure to meet Dhondup Wangchen. Rinpoche also spoke about the importance of preserving Tibetan language and explained Tibetan unity as the most important asset of the Tibetan people. He urged the public to abide by His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s constant guidance and teachings.

Students of the Tibetan association’s culture school presented a cultural performance and a dinner reception was held for all the guests following the program.