Nagpur: On 12 October 2024, at 6 AM, Tashi Dekyi, Acting Coordinator of the India Tibet Coordination Office (ITCO), participated in the Vijayadashami celebrations upon the invitation of Shri Ashok Mendhe. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, former ISRO Chief K. Sivan, and the British Ambassador. Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, marks the conclusion of Navaratri and is celebrated with great significance across India.
Later the same day, at 9 AM, ITCO, in collaboration with the Core Group for Tibetan Cause – India (CGTC-I) and Tibet Support Groups from Nagpur, organised a Tibet awareness event at Deekshabhoomi, Nagpur. The program coincided with the 68th Dhammachakra Pravartan Diwas, observed annually to commemorate the momentous occasion when Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism along with lakhs of followers on October 14, 1956, at Deekshabhoomi. This day holds deep meaning for Ambedkarite Buddhists, who gather in large numbers to pay homage to his ideals and vision. Tashi Dekyi, Acting Coordinator, stayed until the program ended at 2 AM.
The awareness event featured a stall with the theme “Save Tibet, Save India: Why Tibet Matters to India.” The stall was adorned with Indian and Tibetan flags and featured a striking backdrop displaying the message, “Why Tibet Matters to India: Know Why.” Tashi Dekyi was assisted by Sachin Ram Tike and six members from the National Core Group for Tibetan Support (NCFTS), who actively helped with setting up the stall, distributing materials, and installing banners.
Throughout the day, hundreds of visitors engaged with the stall, learning about Tibet’s struggles and gaining insights into its cultural and political relevance. Informative pamphlets were distributed in Hindi and Marathi, and educational materials were available in both Hindi and English. A video compilation showcasing Tibet’s history, its ongoing struggle, and its aspirations for the future was continuously screened on an LED display, creating an immersive experience for the attendees.
In her remarks, Tashi Dekyi emphasised the suffering and resilience of Tibetans inside Tibet while expressing hope for truth and justice to prevail through support from India and the global community. She highlighted the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Tibet and stressed Tibet’s geographical and environmental importance to India. Tashi Dekyi also underlined the non-violent nature of the Tibetan movement and called for international solidarity to achieve freedom for Tibet.
The event successfully raised awareness about Tibet’s plight and strengthened public understanding of its relevance to India.
At 6 PM, Tashi Dekyi made a courtesy call to RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat at his residence, offering him a Tibet-related book, “Buddha’s Thanka,” along with a souvenir and introducing ITCO and the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). The meeting arrangements were made by Ashok Mendhe.
-Report filed by India Tibet Coordination Office (ITCO), New Delhi
