Tibetans congratulate and thank India on its 79th Independence Day
By Tenzin Chokyi
DHARAMSALA 15 Aug: The Central Tibetan Administration(CTA) celebrated the 79th anniversary of India’s independence by hoisting the tricolored Indian national flag at its headquarters in Dharamshala today, extending heartfelt congratulations to the people and the government of India on behalf of Tibetans both inside occupied Tibet and in exile.
Officiating President and Education Minister Tharlam Dolma hoisted the flag as CTA officials, including Kashag members and senior administrators, sang the Indian national anthem at a brief ceremony held at the Kashag Secretariat here in Dharamsala.
The officiating President expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government for giving refuge to the Tibetan people during their mass exodus following the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959.
She highlighted that this act of generosity came at a time when India itself was grappling with immense challenges in building the nation after independence. She acknowledged India’s enduring support, which allowed thousands of Tibetans to rebuild their lives in exile while preserving their identity, culture, and aspirations for freedom.
“We lost our nation and were forced to flee in 1959, just twelve years after India gained its independence. Despite being a young nation facing immense challenges on all fronts, India welcomed us with open arms. It is only through their generosity that Tibetans now live in exile with the ability to preserve our history, language, and culture, ”officiating President Dolma said at the press briefing.
She further commended India for achieving remarkable development over the past seven decades. She noted that India has transformed into a resilient and globally respected nation, expanding its economy, technology and presence across every sector. She said this remarkable trajectory reflects a nation that the world has come to acknowledge today.
Social media messages from Tibetan leaders and organizations echoed similar sentiments of gratitude and solidarity. Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile Khenpo Sonam Tenphel wrote, ”On India’s Independence Day, the Tibetan People celebrates India—the land where freedom’s flame burns bright. We remain eternally grateful to India for being a steadfast friend of Tibet and a beacon of democracy, justice, and hope,”
The Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) also marked the occasion and highlighted the interconnected nature of freedom struggles. “Happy Independence Day. As you celebrate your liberty, we urge you to continue your crucial support and solidarity for our struggle. Helping Tibet regain its rightful independence is a step towards ensuring a truly safe and secure India from CCP’s aggression in the future,” TYC said in a post on X.
As India marks its 78th Independence Day, the Tibetan government-in-exile not only celebrates the spirit of freedom but also honors the enduring friendship and solidarity between the Indian and Tibetan people. By observing a holiday for all officials and staff, the Tibetan administration underscores the deep respect and gratitude it holds for India’s support over the decades.
