Report on the Screening and Discussion of the Tibet and it’s Nonviolence Movement in the Indian Community
Project Title: Film screening and discussion on Tibet and it’s nonviolence movement
Documentary/Film Title: “Fire in the Land of Snow”
Date of the Project: July 19 – July 28, 2024
Approximate Participants: 700
Venues/Locations: Gwalior, Indore, and Khargone
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Introduction
The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC) conducted a series of screenings and discussions focused on the Tibetan nonviolence movement across Madhya Pradesh, India. The initiative, led by Mr. Tsering Sonam, ANEC’s administrative officer, and Ms. Tenzin Zompa, an intern, aimed to raise awareness and promote peace by exploring Tibetan struggles and nonviolent resistance. Events were held in Gwalior, Indore, and Khargone as part of ANEC’s 2024 program.
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Journey Overview
The team departed from Dharamshala, traveling through Delhi to Gwalior on July 19, 2024. Supported by Mr. Yash Vardhaan, a dedicated advocate for Tibet and a friend of ANEC, they utilized various modes of transport to reach the destinations.
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Event Details
3.1 Gwalior Screening and Discussion
- Date: July 24, 2024
- Venue: VISM Group of Studies
- Participants: Approximately 300 students
- Coordinator: Mr. Shailendra Singh
The event began with a warm welcome and an introduction to ANEC’s mission. Mr. Shailendra Singh provided an overview of the Tibetan struggle in Hindi for better comprehension. Mr. Tsering Sonam introduced ANEC and provided historical context about Tibet over the past 60 years. The session included the screening of the documentary “Fire in the Land of Snow,” which highlighted the reasons behind Tibetan self-immolations. A question-and-answer session engaged students, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues. The program concluded with a vote of thanks to Mr. Shailendra Singh and the college administration for their support.
3.2 Indore Screening and Discussion
- Date: July 25, 2024
- Venue 1: Annie Besant Group School
- Participants: Approximately 250 students and staff
The event began with the felicitation of the school principal and administrator, followed by introductions from Mr. Tsering Sonam. Mr. Yash addressed the audience, discussing the Tibetan nonviolence struggle and the Chinese treatment of Tibetans inside Tibet. Tsering Sonam spoke about ANEC’s work and the generosity of the Indian government and people toward Tibetans. The session continued with the documentary screening and a subsequent question-and-answer period. The event concluded with a note of thanks.
- Venue 2: Renaissance College of Commerce and Management
- Participants: Approximately 50 staff members
Due to ongoing exams, only staff members attended the session. The college extended a warm welcome, and ANEC introduced its mission and the Tibetan nonviolent movement. After the documentary screening and a question-and-answer session, the program ended with a note of thanks. Some staff members suggested dubbing the documentary in Hindi to increase accessibility, a recommendation ANEC took into consideration.
3.3 Khargone Screening and Discussion
- Date: July 26, 2024
- Venue: Abhyuday University
- Participants: Approximately 250 students
ANEC’s staff and Mr. Yash travelled 140 km from Indore to Khargone. They arrived at Abhyuday University around 2:00 PM, where they were welcomed with traditional rituals and felicitations. Following introductions, Mr. Yash delivered a brief speech on the Tibetan struggle, urging support for Tibet. The program included the screening of the documentary and a question-and-answer session, concluding with a note of thanks and a call for continued support for the Tibetan cause.
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Conclusion
The screening and discussion tour across Madhya Pradesh successfully raised awareness about the Tibetan nonviolence movement among Indian students and educators. ANEC’s efforts to educate and engage with the Indian community have strengthened the bond between Tibetans and their Indian supporters, fostering a spirit of solidarity and mutual understanding.Suggestions received during the sessions, such as dubbing the documentary in Hindi, will be valuable for future initiatives to further enhance the impact of ANEC’s educational programs.
Acknowledgement
ANEC extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Yash Vardhaan, a dedicated advocate for Tibet and a cherished friend of our organization. We are also deeply thankful to all our supporters and sponsors whose generous contributions have been instrumental in the success of this program. Your invaluable support empowers us to continue our mission, and we eagerly anticipate your ongoing partnership to help us reach even more communities in the future.
