8th Young Indian Scholars’ Conference on Tibet Studies begins in Dharamshala
The 8th Young Indian Scholars’ Conference on Tibet Studies has kicked off in Dharamshala, focusing on Indo-Tibetan civilisational links.
The 8th Young Indian Scholars’ Conference on Tibet Studies officially commenced in Dharamshala on Thursday, marking a significant academic gathering dedicated to exploring the deep-rooted connections between India and Tibet.
Organised by the Tibet Policy Institute (TPI), the three-day event, running from October 8 to 10, has drawn more than 20 scholars from various universities and academic institutions across India. The conference serves as a vital platform for young researchers to present their findings on Tibetan Buddhism, culture, and the historical civilisational ties that bind the two regions.
A Platform for Emerging Researchers
Speaking to the media, Tenzin Lekshay, Director of the Tibet Policy Institute, emphasised the necessity of this academic forum. He noted that India and Tibet have shared a close relationship for thousands of years, making it essential for Indian scholars to develop in-depth expertise in Tibet Studies.
“The gathering will allow young researchers to present their work, exchange ideas, and deepen academic engagement on subjects related to Tibet,” Lekshay stated.
The inaugural session featured Professor Sat Prakash Bansal, Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, as the chief guest. He described Dharamshala as a “living lab” for those studying Tibetan Buddhism, offering scholars the unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in a setting where the culture is actively lived.
Expanding Academic Horizons
Professor Bansal highlighted the commitment of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh to advancing these studies. The university already hosts dedicated centres for Tibetan and Buddhist Studies and offers postgraduate programmes in these fields. Plans are underway to invite more scholars for PhD and advanced research programmes.
Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor revealed ambitious plans for the future, including a major convention in Dharamshala expected in approximately four months. This upcoming event, following discussions with the Dalai Lama, aims to host participants from eight different countries.
Diverse Research Perspectives
The conference has highlighted several critical areas of modern research, ranging from social integration to cultural preservation:
- Cultural Preservation: Nisha Bharti, a PhD scholar from Gautam Buddha University, presented research on how "Tibetan Cafes" serve as unique spaces for cultural preservation and urban integration.
- Refugee Studies: Shazia, a PhD scholar from Banaras Hindu University, shared how her research into the Tibetan refugee population relies heavily on direct interaction, providing insights that books and the internet cannot offer.
- Universal Values: Scholars like Harpal Rana and Jagriti Bodh discussed the importance of spreading Buddhist teachings—such as compassion, love, and peace—to address modern societal challenges.
Participants collectively stressed that direct engagement with the Tibetan community and collaborative research between Indian and Tibetan traditions are essential for preserving the Nalanda tradition and ensuring the transmission of Buddhist knowledge to future generations.