11th Panchen Lama’s 37th Birthday and Appreciation for Black Hat March Participants

On the occasion of the 37th birthday of His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama, the Regional Tibetan Women Association (RTWA) invited the Black Hat March participants as special guests to their commemorative program. The event served not only as a moment of reflection and reverence but also as a special occasion to honor the dedication and efforts of the marchers following the successful conclusion of the Black Hat March.

During the program, the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Mr. Tsering Chomphel, addressed the gathering and shared insights from the Black Hat March, reflecting on its significance, challenges, and journey. RTWA Delhi also honored all the marchers with traditional scarves as a gesture of respect and appreciation for their commitment to the Tibetan cause.

 

 

Following the conclusion of the program, all Black Hat March participants were presented with appreciation certificates in recognition of their dedication and efforts throughout the campaign.

The marchers were also hosted for an evening dinner at Everest Thakali in a spirit of solidarity and support. We are deeply grateful to Everest Thakali for their generous hospitality. Special appreciation goes to the owners—Tenzin Jigme La, former TYC President; Rinchen La, former Director of TNSA; and Chosang La, RTYC Delhi Working Committee member—for their kindness and continued support.

Sincere thanks are also extended to RTWA Majnu Ka Tilla, the GRS Association, and the Do Kham Chushi Gangdruk Central Executive, as well as to all supporters and donors of the Black Hat March. Your contributions have been invaluable in making this movement a success.

 

Black Hat March | Day 25 : Conclusion and Demonstration at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi

Day 25 marked the conclusion of the Black Hat March. The Tibetan Youth Congress organized a demonstration at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi.

At around 10:00 AM, the marchers raised powerful slogans: “Free Tibet,” “Tibet belongs to Tibetans,” “Stop killing inside Tibet,” “Stop cultural genocide in Tibet,” and “The Ethnic Unity Law is a law of genocide.”

During the demonstration, executive members of the Tibetan Youth Congress visited the United Nations office and the Prime Minister’s Office of India to submit memorandums. They appealed to the United Nations to address China regarding the recent so-called “Ethnic Unity Law” and to give greater attention to the human rights situation inside Tibet. Officials acknowledged the concerns and indicated that they would continue to look into the matter.

A memorandum was also submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office, expressing gratitude to the Government and people of India for their continued support and solidarity with the Tibetan cause.

 

 

Upon returning to Jantar Mantar, the Tibetan Youth Congress delivered the concluding address of the Black Hat March and briefed the media on the campaign and the current situation inside Tibet. With this, the Black Hat March campaign was officially concluded.

The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress stated:
“Today, we conclude the Black Hat March campaign, but our resistance movement will continue until Tibet is restored as an independent nation. A free Tibet will come, and that day is not far.”

Black Hat March | Day 24 : Official Political Outreach

On Day 24, the organizing committee (TYC Centrex) of the Black Hat March visited several national political party offices in India as part of its outreach efforts.

At around 11:30 AM, the delegation (TYC Centrex) visited the office of the Indian National Congress and met with AICC Joint Secretary Adv. Mathew Antony, along with senior Congress leader Sharma Ji and office bearer Manoj Ji.

At approximately 12:30 PM, the delegation visited the Janata Dal (United) office and interacted with Nisar Ji.

Later, at around 2:30 PM, the delegation visited the Samajwadi Party office, followed by a visit to the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) office, where they met with Sarmapel Ji and Santosh Jaiswal Ji, National Secretary and spokesperson of RLD.

During these meetings, the delegation engaged with representatives from all four political parties, briefing them on the Black Hat March and its objectives. A memorandum was also submitted to each party office.

The team was encouraged by the positive responses received. Notably, the Indian National Congress reiterated its continued and strong support for the Tibetan people.

With this, the day’s political outreach concluded. Special thanks are extended to former Deputy Speaker of TPiE: Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, former Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, for his coordination and support in facilitating these meetings.

 

 

Black Hat March | Day 21 – 23 : From Samalkha to Samyeling Tibetan Settlement, Delhi

Day 21 – Black Hat March:

Day 21 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM with prayer meetings, followed by a detailed briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s schedule and objectives.

At around 1:00 PM, the marchers had lunch, generously sponsored by participant marchers: TYC Joint Secretary Ngawang Paljor La, RTYC Dekyiling President Ngawang Dhundup La, and Dekyiling marcher Chonden La. The meal was KFC and was enjoyed by all.

By approximately 4:00 PM, the marchers reached their destination in Murthal, Sonipat, where they received a warm welcome from Shri Pankaj Goyal Ji, National General Secretary of BTSM India, along with the Sonipat BTSM team led by Shri Sushil Kumar Ji. Arrangements for the night stay were thoughtfully made at Saroj Mata Mandir, Sonipat.

Special thanks are extended to Mandir Maharaj Shri Vikas Ji for his warm hospitality and kind words. He expressed his honor in hosting the marchers and conveyed his hope that Tibet will one day be free, with a shared aspiration to visit Mount Kailash together.

The day concluded with the marchers resting for the night. The Tibetan Youth Congress extends its heartfelt gratitude to Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok La, Former Deputy Speaker of TPiE, for his continued support of the TYC campaign in India. Sincere thanks are also extended to BTSM India under the leadership of Shri Pankaj Goyal Ji, and to all BTSM Haryana members for their unwavering support throughout the Black Hat March in the region.

 

 

Day 22 – Black Hat March:

The twenty-second day of the Black Hat March commenced as usual at 5:00 AM with prayer sessions, followed by a comprehensive briefing from the organizing committee detailing the day’s plans and objectives.

 

At around 12:30 PM, the marchers reached Singhu Border, where they were warmly welcomed by members of the Chushe Gangdruk Central Executive and the Delhi Regional Chapter. They expressed their appreciation for the marchers’ determination and dedication to the Tibetan cause.

At approximately 3:00 PM, members of the RTYC Rohini Student Working Committee visited the marchers at their place of stay and extended a respectful welcome. Their presence reflected the deep respect and admiration of the younger generation for the dedication and sacrifices of those involved in the Tibetan resistance movement.

The day concluded with a traditional Tibetan meal, after which the marchers retired early in preparation for the final day of the march. The Black Hat March campaign will officially continue until its conclusion on 25 April.

Day 23 – Black Hat March:

Day 23 of the Black Hat March began early at 4:30 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee. It marked the final day of the march towards New Delhi.

At around 1:30 PM, the marchers reached the Samyeling Tibetan Community, where lunch was generously served at Chushi Gangdruk Hall, sponsored by Big Apple Restaurant.

By 4:00 PM, the marchers arrived at TCV Day School, where they were warmly welcomed by the Samyeling Tibetan community. The closing ceremony of the Black Hat March was held there, with addresses delivered by Tibetan Youth Congress President Tsering Chomphel, Former Deputy Speaker of TPiE Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, Indo-Tibet Friendship Society Executive Member Smt. Joesina Ji, Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch National General Secretary Shri Pankaj Goyal Ji, and Sarva Dharam Sansad Executive Member A.R. Shahseen Qaum Maulana Ji.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Tibetan Youth Congress Vice President Tashi Targyal, and the program was anchored by Joint Secretary Ngawang Paljor.

 

 

Dinner was hosted at Romeo & Juliet Restaurant in MKT. Heartfelt thanks are extended to the restaurant owner Ngawang Norbu La and Karma Kusang La for their generosity.

Accommodation for three nights was kindly arranged by the GRS Association. Deep gratitude is extended to all the guest house owners who waived room charges.

With this, the Black Hat March concluded. Despite the intense heat and physical exhaustion, the spirit of the resistance movement remained unwavering throughout the journey.

Black Hat March | Day 11 – 20 : From Rupnagar to Samalkha

Day 11:
The march began early at around 5:00 AM as the marchers proceeded from Rupnagar to Kurali. The day started with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s activities.

At around 1:00 PM, the marchers were warmly welcomed in Kurali by RSS members led by Shri Ravinder Ji, Shri Vikram Ji, and Shri Harvinder Singh Rathore (Punjab University DESMDRC Student Front Party Chief). The Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the press in Kurali, sharing updates on the Black Hat March and expressing heartfelt gratitude to India for its continued support.

The day concluded with a night stay arranged by the RSS Kurali team, along with a pure vegetarian dinner. The spirit of the day was captured in the words: “Under the burning sun, our bodies may tire, but our spirit continues to shine brighter.”

 

 

Day 12:
The marchers began at 4:00 AM from Kurali with prayers and a briefing. Upon reaching Chandigarh, they were warmly welcomed by RTYC Chandigarh, and Raja Mohali also visited to welcome the marchers.

At around 3:00 PM, demonstrations were held at Punjab University and later in Sector 17, with strong support from RSS members including Shri Er. Charan Ji, Shri Sumit Kumar Ji, Professor Tomar Ji (Sanskrit Department, PU), Ashesh Ji (PhD), and Professor K.P. Singh Ji.

RTYC Chandigarh President also invited Kamaljit Singh Panchhi, President of the National Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Force Chandigarh, along with members who stood in solidarity with the Tibetan cause.

At Sector 17, RTYC Puruwala and RTWA Puruwala visited the marchers, offering scarves and distributing water and fruits. Despite physical exhaustion, the day concluded successfully.

 

 

Day 13:
After marching continuously for 12 days, the marchers took a well-deserved rest. The organizing committee arranged a full medical check-up with the support of RTYC Chandigarh.

Heartfelt thanks were extended to Dr. Sandup Dorjee and the SRH Charitable Diagnostic team, along with special gratitude to Dr. Tenzin Thai, President of RTYC Chandigarh.
Lunch was served at a Gurudwara, where the marchers respectfully shared a simple vegetarian meal. The day ended with much-needed rest and reassurance that all marchers were in good health.

 

 

Day 14:
Today marked the longest march so far, covering approximately 53 km. Beginning at 4:00 AM with prayers and a briefing, the marchers reached Ambala, Haryana, around 5:30 PM.

They were warmly welcomed by ABVP student members under the leadership of Yogesh Ji at Ambala Cantt. At the Gurudwara, BTSM President Shri Narender Ji and Vice President Arun Ji offered fruits. BTSM Haryana President Shri Sushil Kumar Ji and his team welcomed the marchers with garlands and flowers.

The Tibetan Youth Congress President addressed the press and media, expressing gratitude to India and its people. RTYC Paonta Sahib and RTWA Paonta Sahib also visited in support. The day concluded with dinner and rest.

 

 

Day 15:
The march began at 5:00 AM, covering approximately 22 km to Shahbad, reaching around 12:30 PM at Shri Shakambari Devi Mandir.

Arrangements were made by Vishwa Hindu Parishad Shahbad with the support of Shri Manesh Bhagat Ji, Pandit Shri Rajesh Sharma Ji, Shri Santpal Bhatia Ji, Shri Raja Kumar Bhatia Ji, Shri Surender Jain Ji, Shri R.D. Gupta Ji, Shri Marander Madan Ji, Shri Rampal Ji, and Shri Rakesh Khanna Ji.

The marchers were warmly welcomed with garlands and flower petals. The Tibetan Youth Congress President addressed the media, and due to intense heat, the marchers rested early.

 

 

In today’s highlight, in response to media questions during the press, the TYC President stated: “Even though the sun’s heat burns us, it will never weaken our courage and determination in our struggle for Tibet.”

 

Day 16:
The march began at 4:00 AM with prayers and a briefing. along the way at 9:00 am, Tibetan activist Jamyang la visited the marchers from Dehradun, expressing gratitude for their dedication and determination toward the national struggle.

By 1:30 PM, the marchers reached Kurukshetra, where they were welcomed by ABVP students led by Subham Sharma Ji. At around 2:30 pm, members of BTSM Kurukshetra—Sushil Ji, Ravinder Ji, and Vikas Ji—also extended their support and shared words of encouragement for the tibetan struggle.

 

 

An emotional highlight was the visit of an elderly couple from Paonta Sahib Tibetan settlement, encouraging the marchers with the spirit of determination for “Bodh Rangzen.”
The day concluded with a simple meal, and special thanks were extended to the Yarloong team from New York City for sponsoring meals.

 

 

Day 17:
The day began at 4:00 AM with prayers and a detailed briefing. The marchers reached Nilokheri, Haryana around 12:00 PM and were welcomed by ABVP students under the guidance of Abshak Rana Ji and youth leader Lovpratap Singh.

With the support of senior journalist Ahuja Ji, a press briefing was arranged at Bajrang Dal Dharamshala. Ahuja ji also recited a poem to uplift the spirits of the marchers and encourage dedication to the national cause.

The Tibetan Youth Congress President addressed the media, and the day concluded with discussions and a shared meal.

 

 

Day 18:
The march continued from early morning at 4:00 AM. By midday, the marchers reached Karnal and stayed at Jaat Bhawan, around 12 pm where they were warmly received by ABVP Karnal guided by Abhishek Rana Ji and leadership of Deepak Yadav Ji and Lovpratap Ji.
They were also welcomed by BTSM Haryana under Shri Sushil Kumar Ji, along with Rajvir Palawan Ji and his group.

A press briefing was conducted by the Tibetan Youth Congress President and Joint Secretary Ngawang Paljor on Black Hat March and current India-China relations.

 

 

Day 19:
The marchers began at 4:00 AM, covering around 35 km before reaching Panipat by 4:00 PM. They were welcomed by Shri Gulab Ji (BTSM Panipat), BJP’s Neeraj Ji, Suhil Verma of ABVP, and students from DS (PG) College.
A press conference was held at DS College addressing about purpose and goal of the Black Hat March, followed by a meeting with the Principal and administration.

 

All programs were coordinated under the guidance of Former Deputy Speaker of TPiE, Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok La. Night stay was arranged by BTSM and ABVP Panipat.

A Heartfelt thanks to all Indian supporters, and special gratitude to Former Deputy Speaker of TPiE, Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok La for his continued support of TYC campaigns across India.

Day 20:
The day began at 5:00 AM with prayers and a briefing. By 12:00 PM, the marchers reached Samalkha, where they were warmly welcomed by local leaders and residents, later by ABVP Samalkha and BTSM Haryana, led by Shri Gulab Singh Ji and the Samalkha team at the BJP office in Samalkha. A welcome program was organized and hosted by Shri Neeraj Ji (BJP karyakarta), featuring speeches by Former Deputy Speaker of TPiE, Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok La, BTSM Haryana’s Shri Gulab Ji, and Shri Sushil Ji, who delivered the welcome address. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Tsering Chomphel, also addressed the gathering, speaking about the purpose of the Black Hat March and the critical situation inside Tibet.

After the program, the TYC President briefed the media and press about the Black Hat March. BTSM and ABVP Haryana, led by Shri Sahil Verma Ji, arranged high tea for all the marchers, and night stay was also organized by them.

 

 

Later, around 5:00 PM, the TYC President visited the Hindu Temple at Chulkana Dham, where he was warmly received by the temple authorities. He also visited the RSS Haryana office premises and met with Shri Raj Kumar Ji and Shri Vijay Ji, administrators of the RSS Haryana office. The RSS Haryana campus is one of the largest premises in India.
Special thanks were extended to Shri Gulab Singh Ji (BTSM Haryana), Shri Sahil Verma Ji (ABVP), Shri Neeraj Ji (BJP), and Shri Hari Om Ji for their support and for making all the arrangements for the TYC Black Hat March over the two days in Panipat and Samalkha.

 

Black Hat March | Day 10 : From Kiratpur Sahib to Rupnagar

Early at 5:00 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee about the day’s program, the marchers reached our destination in Rupnagar district around 4:30 PM, where they received a warm welcome from Shri Iqbal Singh Lalpura (former Chairman of the National Minority Commission, India) and the RSS Ropar team led by Shri Amit Kumar ji.
The marchers also conducted a press briefing in Ropar, sharing the purpose of our march and raising awareness about our cause.
In the Rupnagar market, they carried out a peaceful demonstration against the “Ethnic Unity Law = Genocide,” highlighting our concerns and seeking public attention. The RTYC Jalandhar Student Working Committee visited Rupnagar to express heartfelt gratitude to all the marchers for their unwavering determination and commitment to the nation’s cause.
Night stay was arranged at Banglamukhi Mandir by Ropar members. The day concluded with meaningful conversations over traditional Tibetan food, thenthuk, with RSS members. The marchers shared the story of their national struggle, and RSS members expressed their solidarity with the cause.

Black Hat March | Day 9 : From Bilaspur to Kiratpur Sahib

Day 9 of the Black Hat March began slightly later than usual due to heavy rainfall in Bilaspur. The day commenced with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the plan for the journey ahead.

Once the rain subsided, the marchers resumed their journey towards Kiratpur Sahib, covering a distance of approximately 38 kilometers. On this ninth day, the determination and resolve of the marchers were clearly evident, with their pace reflecting a renewed sense of urgency and purpose.

At around 2:30 PM, the marchers reached their destination at Shiv and Ram Mandir in Kiratpur Sahib, where they were warmly received by members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, including Shri Joshi ji, Shri Kumar ji, and their team. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed members of the press and media, sharing the purpose and spirit behind the Black Hat March.

 

 

Throughout the day, powerful slogans echoed in unison, expressing the collective belief that one day Tibet will be free. The march concluded with a sense of accomplishment and continued determination.

The marchers rested for the night at the Shiv Mandir, the day concluded with a simple and pure vegetarian meal, providing comfort after a long and challenging journey.

 

Black Hat March | Day 8 : From Sundernagar to Bilaspur

The day began as usual with morning prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s activities. With determination and unity, the marchers set out on a long and demanding journey, walking for nearly 11 hours and covering more than 40 kilometers.

At around 4:00 PM, the marchers reached Bilaspur, where they received a warm welcome from local youth, who thoughtfully arranged refreshing tea. Shortly thereafter, a protest campaign was organized in the Bilaspur market, where members of the local community joined in strong solidarity, raising their voices against the so-called “Ethnic Unity Law ” which equals to genocide of the tibetans and other occupied countries under China. The collective participation reflected growing awareness and support for the Tibetan cause.

 

 

A press meeting was also held at the Circuit House, further amplifying the message of justice, human rights, and the urgent need to address the ongoing situation in Tibet. Throughout the march, powerful slogans such as “Bharat-Tibet mitrata amar rahe” echoed in the air, energizing the marchers and reinforcing a shared sense of purpose and resilience.

The Tibetan Youth Congress expresses its deep gratitude to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh youth members of Bilaspur—Shri Shiv Kumar, Shri Rakesh, Shri Rupendra Piyush, Shri Pradyuman, Shri Rahul, Shri Karthik, Shri Surya, Shri Munish, Shri Rampal—and the entire Bilaspur community for their generous support and unwavering solidarity with the Tibetan cause.

The day concluded with a restful stay at the Government Bungalow (MCD Hall), surrounded by Tibetan and Indian friends. It was a day marked by unity, endurance, and shared commitment—one that will remain a lasting source of inspiration for all involved.

 

Black Hat March | Day 7 : From Mandi to Sundernagar

Day 7 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM, as usual. However, unlike other days, it commenced with the solemn chanting of Mani prayers in remembrance of the late Ngari Rinpoche Tenzin Choegyal, marking the 49th day since his passing. The prayers were offered with deep reverence, reflecting on his spiritual legacy and the profound impact he had on the Tibetan community. Following this moment of reflection, the organizing committee briefed the marchers before they commenced their journey towards Sundernagar.

At around 12:30 PM, the marchers were warmly welcomed upon arrival in Sundernagar. Members of the taxi union, jeep union, local businessmen, and residents greeted them with flower malas (flower garland) and showered them with petals. Under the leadership of Krishna Chand, Durga Dutt (Palu Sharma), Tara Chand, and Balak Ram (Tek Chand), the local community came together in strong support of the Tibetan Youth Congress Black Hat March campaign and the Tibetan cause. They also expressed deep appreciation for the courage and determination of the marchers.

 

 

After a brief halt of about an hour, the marchers proceeded to their place of stay. Notably, the pace of the march was faster than in previous days, reflecting the growing strength and determination of the participants. Despite continued efforts by China to suppress the Tibetan people, the resolve of the marchers remains strong with each step.

In the evening, the marchers were served a traditional Tibetan dinner of thenthuk, prepared by the team’s cook. The meal evoked memories of their forefathers and provided a comforting sense of home after a long and demanding day.

 

Black Hat March | Day 6 : From Padhar to Mandi

Day 6 began early at 5:00 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s program. Shortly thereafter, the march commenced.

On the way to Mandi, the marchers were graciously hosted for lunch at a Gurudwara by members of the Sikh community, who warmly served meals to all.

At around 2:00 PM, the marchers arrived in Mandi, where they received a heartfelt welcome from several dignitaries and members of the local Tibetan community. Among those present were Lhamo Choedon, Coordinator Secretary, Mandi Tibetan Settlement Office; Ngawang Dhondup, former President, BRDL Mandi; Yeshi Dorjee, Vice President, LTA Mandi; and Tashi Tsewang and Tashi Phuntsok, Members of LTA Mandi.

The marchers were also welcomed by members of the Tibetan community in Mandi, including TSO Pema, as well as Shri Danesh Kumar from the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Society, Mandi, who kindly facilitated a press briefing on the Black Hat March campaign.

The day concluded with a night stay at Guru Gobind Singh Gurudwara in Mandi, where the marchers were served a wholesome meal of rajma chawal, bringing the day to a warm and fulfilling close.

 

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