Taleigão, Goa: The Tibet Museum, in collaboration with the University of Goa, organised a two-day programme highlighting the life and legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Held at the university campus, the event brought together faculty members, students, and guests to engage with the history, values, and contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama through exhibitions, talks, and documentary screenings.

On 4 March, the programme commenced at 11:00 AM with the ushering of dignitaries to the dais. This was followed by a formal welcome from the Coordinator, Prof. Joana Pereira Coelho, who greeted the guests and outlined the event’s objectives. In a gesture of respect, the dignitaries were then presented with floral bouquets.

Following this, Tenzin Topdhen, Director of the Tibet Museum, introduced the exhibition titled “Brief biography of His holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.” He explained the panels displayed along the corridor, highlighting the key sections of the exhibition that present important moments from the life of His Holiness, his continued work in promoting compassion, peace, and the preservation of Tibetan culture.

This was followed by an introduction to the exhibition “The Secret of Particles” by Karma Thupten, Director of the Science for Monks and Nuns Foundation. In his presentation, he spoke about the initiative that brings together modern scientific knowledge and monastic education, and explained the panels displayed outside the venue that explore scientific ideas in an accessible and engaging way.

The programme then proceeded with the Chief Guest Address by Prof. Nagendra Rao, Dean of the D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioral Studies, who shared his reflections on the relevance of Tibetan culture, philosophy, and the enduring influence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

This was followed by the Guest of Honour Address by Prof. Anuradha Wagle, Dean of the Shenoi Goembab School of Languages and Literature, who spoke about SEE Learning and shared how meaningful and interesting it is in fostering compassion, understanding, and emotional awareness.

After the addresses, the Tibet Museum staff introduced the documentaries, providing a brief context for the films. This was followed by the screening of documentaries on the reincarnation and life of the 14th Dalai Lama, offering the audience deeper insight into the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of recognising reincarnated spiritual leaders.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mozinha Fernandes, Programme Director of Sociology, expressing gratitude to the organisers, speakers, and participants for making the event meaningful and successful.

On the following day, 5 March, the exhibition panels were explained to the students in greater detail. The session provided an opportunity for them to learn more about the life and contributions of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, as well as the ideas and themes presented in the exhibitions. The students showed keen interest in the topics and actively engaged with the presenters. They raised several thoughtful questions about the panels, the historical context. This exchange led to a meaningful and interactive discussion, allowing the students to reflect more deeply on the subject matter and creating an engaging learning experience for everyone present.

– Report filed by The Tibet Museum, DIIR, CTA