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Reflections of Tibetan Resistance against China in the Streets of Dharmkot, Macledoganj

MacLeod Ganj, a hill station situated in Dharamshala, is the epicenter of the Tibetan government-in-exile and the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. It is  known as the Tel Aviv of the hills due to a significant presence of the Israeli diaspora. This place hosts beautiful tourist attractions such as Dal Lake, Bhagsu Waterfall, St. John in the Wilderness Church, the Triund Trek, cafes, Tibetan food, stunning views, and the Tsuglagkhang Complex, also known as Namgyal Monastery (residence of the Dalai Lama). 

During my project assistantship at the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP), I often visited MacLeod Ganj on weekends. One Sunday, I decided to explore the city in search of  good coffee and a croissant, as suggested by my seniors, Places like Jimmy's Cafe and Kalimpong Restaurant were on top my list. As I walked down the Temple Road, I noticed a paper pasted on the walls, loudly pronouncing the slogan's of :

ONE EARTH, ONE FAMILY, ONE FUTURE
ONE LEADER!
BUT XI JINPING IS NOT WELCOME

TIBET'S INDEPENDENCE, INDIA'S SECURITY

#TibetMatters #TalkTibetNow

  "China's Diplomatic Assurances are not to be trusted"

It feels like that the poster was loudly protesting against the Chinese government, advocating for Tibetan independence and raising security concerns for India. Such posters are common in the streets of this town. They play a significant role in informing people about the current situation of Tibet under Xi Jinping's communist regime. In 2023, Penpa Tshering, head of Tibetan Government in exile said that " Tibet is dying a slow death due to the extinction of Tibetan language, culture, and religion, which are facing an unprecedented threat of eradication. Tibetan people are subjected to cruelty, repression, collective violence, persecution, and pervasive surveillance. 

Passing by that street, and reflecting on the struggles faced by Tibetan community. In the chilly December and the cold air, i was feeling frozen and then, I saw a roadside cafe, named "The Quality cafe". I stepped inside and ordered a coffee along with a Tibetan Cookie. As sun drowned, i headed towards my PG.  Overall, my weekends in MacLeod Ganj were not just about exploring scenic spots and tasting delicious food, but also about understanding the profound stories and struggles of its people.


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