The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, in his book Voice for the Voiceless gives a searingly honest account of Tibet’s long and unresolved struggle for freedom and autonomy from China
A dated photograph of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso (centre) with Samdhong Rinpoche (right). Pics Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons
The world seemed to have abandoned us,” writes the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, in his book Voice for the Voiceless (HarperCollins). This is a searingly honest account of Tibet’s long and unresolved struggle for freedom and autonomy from China. The sentence echoes how alone Tibetans have sometimes felt in their fight.
From his negotiations and talks with the Communist Chinese Government at various stages — including as a 19-year-old leader — to the violence inflicted on the Tibetans, the Dalai Lama foregrounds all that led him in 1959 to flee the nation and the tightening of the tension in his homeland today. Since his escape, he has taken shelter in India and has only been able to dream of returning home. We learn how, while in exile, there have been two goals he’s set out to reach. He wishes to continue establishing resettlements for his people to preserve their culture and identity. Additionally, he aims to reach out to governments of other nations so they may help put an end to the Tibetan issue.
In an environment where one’s life and dignity are under threat, the most essential practices can be the acts of healing and care. These, among other chapters, set the book apart. They illustrate the practices that have sustained the Dalai Lama’s determination and kept his hope alive. They act as pieces of wisdom in moments of terror. Some of these include being prepared for what is to come, never losing sight of humanity, and always carrying optimism. He believes in the Buddhist principle of steering clear of hatred, as it can lead to further hatred. Moreover, he advises his readers and followers to situate problems within larger contexts to be able to arrive at the best course of action.
Throughout the book, we are constantly reminded that we must believe in shared humanity — an idea that allows for measured decisions and communications with each other. This is imminent when matters of a nation under annexation are concerned. His hope is fuelled by the sensitivity displayed by thoughtful Chinese scholars, writers, and other citizens who care about the issue. He recalls a poignant moment when a grandson delivers an apology on behalf of his grandfather. The grandfather, we learn, was part of the People’s Liberation Army that attacked Tibet in the 1950s. While the situation remains grim, the book is a reminder of the resilience of people in the face of massive suffering.
TITLE
Voice for the Voiceless
AUTHOR The Dalai Lama
GENRE Non-fiction
Publisher Harper Collins
Cost Rs 699
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