Date: July 9, 2026
Morning Session;
The CRO-led delegation, accompanied by His Eminence the Abbot, Geshe Jigme Gyatso of Drepung Gomang Monastery was warmly received at St. Joseph’s University by Prof.Sujoy Chakravarthi and Prof.RK Lalnunsangi, both of them representing Department of English. The Abbot emphasized the importance of SEE (Social, Ethical, and Emotional) learning, which is implemented in over 1,40,000 schools across India and abroad. He also highlighted the Four Commitments of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and expressed concern over China’s newly imposed Ethnic Law, which seeks to enforce the exclusive use of Chinese language among Tibetans. This has created growing apprehension regarding the preservation of Tibetan culture and language.
The Abbot further noted the recent self-immolation of Lobga Rangzen in front of the UN Headquarters, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The Gangjong Opera Troupe from Kalimpong, West Bengal, who have been especially invited during the event, presented Tibetan songs and dances, showcasing the richness of Tibetan culture.
Mr. Tenzin Thakpo (RDTS) spoke on the relevance of the Four Commitments in today’s world, marked by polarization, conflict, inequality and mental health challenges.
Professor M N Rajesh, Department of History, University of Hyderabad emphasized the strategic importance of Tibet, noting its geographical location and the vital role of its rivers as lifelines for lower riparian countries. Prof.Rajesh implored the student’s interest and research upon those information that are either sidelined or not available if it has any relevance upon Tibet’s geo-political scenario. China’s rising military strength, economic expansionism soaking one third of world countries with debt ridden loans, mega development projects leading to ecological catastrophic with wide spread collateral damages upon the neighbouring countries and affecting other countries as well were distinctively denoted by Prof.Rajesh during his address at the event. He travelled all the way from Hyderabad despite his mother not doing well with her health during recent days.
Prof.Sujoy Chakravarthi reminiscence about the special relation that St.Joseph’s University shares with Chief Representative Office, South Zone and affirmed to continue in prospering the values of Indian traditional thoughts intertwined with Tibetan identity and its culture. Sharing the vibrant and cohesive atmosphere of St.Joseph’s University – its academic excellence, professional achievement and
students enrolment growth couldn’t have been possible without the multi-dimensional conversation and engagement sharing different ethos and ethnicities while maintaining the objectives of the prestigious institution.
With His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s visitation to campus in 2011, Prof.Sujoy laments that it has added more fragrance of warm heartedness and friendship in the campus of St.Joseph’s University which they still cherish to this day as well.
Afternoon Session;
The delegation later visited Surana College, where they were warmly welcomed by Dr.Veena KN, Principal; Assistant Prof. Srivatsa KR, Department of Humanities, Surana College Autonomous, Bengaluru and his team. Khen Rinpoche shared insights on the importance of SEE learning, stressing that education should not only impart knowledge but also cultivate compassion. The Principal expressed appreciation for the delegation’s visit and conveyed interest in hosting future programs.
Mr. Tenzin Thakpo (RDTS) elaborated on the profound nature of His Holiness’s Four Commitments, noting their embodiment in service to humanity through SEE (Social, Environment, and Economy) — a vision directed toward peace, planet, and prosperity.
CRO Jigmey Tsultrim concluded by thanking both institutions for their hospitality and for hosting cultural events in honor of His Holiness the Dalia Lama’s 91st Birthday.
