‘India gave new life to Tibetan migrants’

Divya Sharma

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 17

At the age of 63, Thubten Samphel feels migration from Tibet to India has given his community a new life, and a certain bond has been fostered with the countrymen over the years. Samphel was just eight when he came to India with his brother and sister-in-law.

Samphel, who works as director at Policy Institute Research Centre, under Central Tibetan Administration, Dharamshala, is here in the city to become a part of an event organised by the Indian Academy of Fine Arts (IIFA) and Majha House on migration and exile. With support from his subordinates, he is going to showcase the history of Tibetans through visuals, narrative that depict the story of the Tibetan community.

He said, “India has treated us well. There is no complaint. The community respects the country for the mental peace and good living it provided to us. The younger generation of the Tibetans here has developed a positive relationship with the country.”

When asked about the idea of migration, especially in the current situation in the country, he said, “Tolerance is very important because we turn intolerant when we share a sense of insecurity or superiority. I remember that I felt relieved after coming here. There is a sense of freedom and mind is without fear. We are not being oppressed,” he said.

Samphel, who has been a journalist, opines that these days more youngsters are getting attracted towards Buddhism. “People are attracted to Buddhism due to stress. Youngsters are coming in large numbers.”

The event will begin at 4.30 pm at the Indian Academy of Fine Arts on Saturday. The panelist will be present their views on migration and exile combined with their personal experiences. A three-day exhibition will also be inaugurated, which will be visited by schoolchildren and residents. Dr Arvinder Singh Chamak, general secretary, IAFA, said, “The entry is free of cost. The programme will open new horizons of discussion.”