Mahabodhi Society, ABWA pay tribute to Lobsang Rangtsen, calls for preservation of Tibetan heritage

BENGALURU: The Mahabodhi Society and the Arunachal Buddhist Welfare Association (ABWA) on Monday paid tribute to Tibetan Lobsang Rangtsen, who, according to the organisations, recently self-immolated in protest over policies implemented by the Chinese government in Tibet. The organisations also reiterated their support for what they described as the Tibetan people’s peaceful efforts to preserve their cultural, religious and linguistic identity.

During a commemorative programme, members of the two organisations offered prayers and observed a solemn tribute in memory of Rangtsen. The gathering also served as an expression of solidarity with Tibetans and their commitment to safeguarding their heritage through non-violent means.

Referring to Rangtsen’s final public message, the organisers said he had appealed to Tibetans to remain united, follow the guidance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, uphold democratic values and celebrate the Dalai Lama’s birthday with prayers and cultural observances rather than mourning his death. According to the organisers, he had said the continuing lack of freedom in Tibet, rather than his death, should be the cause for concern.

In a joint statement, the Mahabodhi Society and ABWA alleged that policies such as the “Ethnic Unity” programme, the boarding school system and restrictions on the Tibetan language pose a threat to Tibet’s cultural and religious heritage. These claims reflect the organisations’ position.

Reaffirming their support for the Tibetan community, both organisations said they would continue to stand with Tibetans in their peaceful pursuit of preserving their identity, language, religion and traditions. They also underscored the values of compassion, peace, cultural preservation and unity as essential to addressing the challenges faced by the Tibetan community.