Bengaluru: The Education Tour and Cultural Exchange led by Dr. Miki Enoki, Associate Professor, Nagoya City University, along with her students Rei Mizuma and Akari Toyoda, who were second-year undergraduate students of Nagoya City University, Japan, studying major in International Cultures. Kosho Asai, who also joined the group as per invitation and acknowledged by the Professor and he is a Ph.D. student from Ryukoku University, researching Indian and Tibetan Buddhism in general and particularly Gelugpa School of Thoughts and Philosophy.
Education tours provide an excellent opportunity for them to broaden their horizons, gain cultural insights and foster international understanding. It was enlightening for them as they embarked on an education tour to Tibetan Settlements, particularly to Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement in India from 22 to 25 August and Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement from 26 to 28 August 2023. This unique destination offers a rich blend of cultural diversity, educational experiences and a chance to witness the Tibetan community’s resilience and dedication to preserving their culture and heritage.
Established in 1966, Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement is an epicentre of Cultural learning located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, home to a significant Tibetan refugee community. They were very much satisfied to explore and witness firsthand the harmonious coexistence of Tibetan and Indian cultures.
Through this education tour, they were privileged to visit the renowned monasteries and schools within the settlement, such as Gaden Jangtse, Gaden Shartse, Drepung Loseling, Drepung Gomang Monastery as well as Sambota Tibetan Senior and Primary School, Drepung Loseling Science Centre and many respective institutions including Jangchup Choeling Nunnery. They got great opportunities to gain insights into Tibetan Buddhism, witness monks engaged in their spiritual practices and learn about the significance of meditation and mindfulness in their daily lives.
The Japanese students, having a keen interest in languages, had a chance to explore the Tibetan language and its unique script. They witnessed language classes and interacted with Tibetan Students and Tibetan scholars who had served more than three decades in teaching, such as Tsering Palden and Rinchen Dolma. They visited schools and interacted with teachers and students, understanding the challenges faced by the Tibetan community in preserving their language and culture while integrating with the Indian educational system.
Apart from educational experiences, they actively engaged with the local Tibetan community, fostering cultural exchange and understanding. They participated in community events, festivals, and cultural performances such as Gorshey, gaining insights into Tibetan customs, cuisine, and traditional attire.
Thus, the education tour to Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan Settlement in India within a short period may offer a transformative experience for them. By immersing themselves in the vibrant Tibetan culture, engaging in educational experiences and fostering cultural exchange, they will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Tibetan community and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. This journey will leave an indelible mark on their educational and personal growth, inspiring them to become ambassadors of cultural understanding and advocates for preserving diverse traditions worldwide.
-Report filed by Chief Representative Office, South Zone