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.

 

Black Hat March | Day 5: From Bir to Padhar

The fifth day of the Black Hat March commenced at 5:00 AM with prayers, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee on the day’s planned activities.

Although there were no Tibetan settlements along the route, the marchers felt a strong sense of support from well-wishers between Bir and Padhar as they continued their journey through Himachal Pradesh.

On the way to Padhar, the marchers had the opportunity to interact with members of the press and media. This engagement was made possible with the support of former Deputy Speaker Kungo Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, Shri Raj Thakur (ITFS member and businessman), and RTYC Chauntra President Sonam Yougyal.

One powerful reflection from a second-generation marcher deeply resonated with all:

“Why did I join the Black Hat March? Because I am concerned that if we do not continue to struggle for our cause, the new generation may forget our nation’s cause. That is why I joined this campaign, and my children will join in the future. This has become an example for them — a moment of pride.”

Despite facing a thunderstorm and heavy rain, the marchers’ spirits remained unshaken. The day’s journey concluded successfully upon reaching Padhar, marking another determined step forward in the movement.

Black Hat March | Day 4: From Tashijong to Bir

Day 4 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM with prayer meetings, followed by a briefing from the organizing committee outlining the day’s activities.
At around 9:30 AM, the marchers were warmly welcomed at the Ghatta Kangra–Mandi border by representatives of the Bir Local Assembly, the Bir Tibetan Settlement Officer, the Chauntra Tibetan Settlement Officer, RTYC Bir, RTYC Chauntra, and Chauntra Zabsang Choekharling Monastery. Special thanks are extended to RTYC Chauntra President, Mr. Yougyal la, for arranging a press meeting for the Black Hat March.

On the way to Bir, Namlang Resort generously hosted tea for all the marchers. Along the route, members of the Tibetan community from Dergey greeted the marchers with heartfelt warmth at Bir market.

By 1:30 PM, the marchers reached the Bir Tibetan Settlement, where a large gathering warmly received them. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the community, stating “We are responding to the Chinese Communist Party that we will continue our struggle to reclaim our country — even if it takes generations.”

Notably, the marchers reached their destination faster than in the previous three days, driven by the strength of their shared purpose. Every step felt lighter with hearts united in one goal — a Free Tibet.

The day concluded with dinner hosted by RTYC Bir, ending on a note of hope and determination that freedom is not far away.

 

The Tibetan Youth Congress extends heartfelt gratitude to the Bir Tibetan Settlement, RTYC Bir, and RTYC Chauntra for their generous support in providing accommodation and dinner. Special thanks are also due to the Regional Tibetan Health Dispensary for donating medical kits, and to the TCV Suja students for offering relaxing massages to the marchers. Sincere appreciation is extended to Namlang Resort and the Tibetan community of Bir for their kind donations and unwavering support.

Black Hat March | Day 3: From Gopalpur to Tashijong

 Day 3 of the Black Hat March began early at 5:00 AM with a prayer meeting followed by a briefing from the organizing committee. The march commenced from TCV Gopalpur School.

At around 9:00 am, the TYC marchers received a warm welcome from the former MLA of Palampur, Shri Parveen Kumar, along with his colleagues, who honored them with traditional Indian scarves as a gesture of solidarity with the Tibetan movement.

 

 

At approximately 11:00 am, the President, Vice President, and Joint Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, along with the RTYC Puruwala President and a few marchers, met with former Union Minister of the Government of India and the third Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Shanta Kumar. A long-time friend of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Shri Shanta Kumar, even at the age of 91, continues to express steadfast support for the Tibetan cause. The delegation shared the objectives of the Black Hat March and conveyed deep gratitude for his enduring solidarity with the Tibetan people.

By 4:00 PM, the marchers arrived at Tashijong Tibetan Village, where they were warmly welcomed by the local Tibetan community. The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and renewed activism among Tibetans.

 

 

The day concluded with a generous dinner hosted by the Tashijong Tibetan community. Exhausted yet fulfilled, the marchers retired for the night with a strong sense of purpose and solidarity.

The Tibetan Youth Congress extends sincere thanks to Shri Shanta Kumar, Shri Parveen Kumar, Tashijong Tibetan community, Tashijong Tibetan Monastery, and the Youth Club of Tashijong for their kindness and support.

Black Hat March | Day 2: From Sarah to Gopalpur

Day 2 – The day began early at 5 AM with a prayer meets and a briefing by the organizing committee. Soon after, the march set off from Sarah Tibetan Studies College, making its way toward TCV Gopalpur via Dadh.
At Dadh, members of the Tibetan community of Chamunda, along with Himalayan Parivar National Secretary Mr. Rishi Kumar Ji and the owner of Hotel Dolphin, warmly welcomed the Tibetan Youth Congress Black Hat marchers, showing their strong support for the cause. By around 5 PM, we reached Tibetan Children’s Village School, Gopalpur, where students lined up to greet the marchers. The school administration kindly arranged high tea and accommodations for the night.
At 6 PM, the President and Vice President of the Tibetan Youth Congress held an engaging talk session with school staff, teachers, and students. They emphasized that students, the future of Tibet, should focus deeply on their education and recognize their responsibility toward the nation’s future.
The day concluded with a school dinner that brought back memories of our own school days, ending on a meaningful and reflective note.
Thank you TCV GOPALPUR , Chamunda Tibetan community, Rishi kumar ji himalayan parivar National Seretary and hotel Dolphin.

67th Tibetan National Uprising Day: Standing Against Oppression

On 10th March 1959, waves of desperate hope and terror swept through Lhasa as Tibetans bravely risked everything (lives, families, future) to shield His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and fight for the soul of their homeland. This uprising, forever branded with courage and sorrow, still fuels the unyielding spirit at the core of the Tibetan freedom movement.
Today, 10th March 2026, Tibetan hearts unite in peaceful protest marches across the world, each step and chant echoing with longing, outrage, and hope for the homeland they ache to see free. (Video link)
The air at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi pulsed with fierce determination, every heartbeat echoing resistance as the Tibetan Youth Congress led a fervent mass protest. Over 500 Tibetans and their steadfast allies gathered, their voices and very presence a living testament of unwavering solidarity for Tibet’s struggle.
The President of the Tibetan Youth Congress addressed the gathering, joined by several distinguished guest speakers, including Dr Manoj Kumar, National General Secretary of the Indo-Tibet Friendship Society; the former Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; former MCD member Rakesh Kumar Ji; Professor Vinay Kumar; and Jagtumba Singh from Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch. During the programme, organisers’ anguished voices revealed Tibetans’ suffering under Chinese rule, calling for the world to witness this plight. As Ladakhi singer Sonam’s patriotic song soared, emotion swept the crowd, forging tears into vows of commitment.
Meanwhile, at the Chinese Embassy, the Tibetan Youth Congress Central Executive, with RTYC Delhi and RTYC Rohini, held a demonstration. When 24 Tibetan activists were detained, fear and injustice surged through the crowd, showing the high stakes of resistance.

TIBETAN YOUTH CONGRESS ADVOCACY IN TAIWAN

Tibetan Youth Congress advocacy in Taiwan

On February 4, 2025, TYC President and Information Secretary met with Kungoe Kalsang Gyaltsen la, the Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Taiwan. The meeting was also attended by Tashi Tsering la. During the discussion, the TYC President provided an overview of TYC’s advocacy efforts in Taiwan. Kungoe Kalsang la extended his best wishes to the Centrex delegation for their programs in Taiwan. Later in the afternoon, the delegation held a meeting with Taipei-based NGOs.

On February 5, the TYC Centrex delegation participated in the Free Tibet Cycle Rally, marking its 15th anniversary. The campaign was initially started by Tashi Tsering la and has been organized by HRNTT since 2016. At a press conference, Taiwanese Members of Parliament Mr. Puma SHEN and Ms. Pei-yu CHEN expressed their support for the Tibetan cause. The TYC President addressed the media, thanking the MPs and the people of Taiwan for their unwavering support for Tibet’s independence. He reaffirmed the Tibetan people’s determination to continue their resistance until Tibet’s rightful independence is restored.

In the afternoon, the TYC President engaged with students at National Chengchi University (NCCU) in a talk program organized by HRNTT, with board members Tashi la and Shinyi accompanying him.

On February 7, with arrangements made by HRNTT, the TYC President and Information Secretary delivered a public talk at the Taipei International Book Festival. Following the talk, the TYC President gave an interview to Taiwanese media. The Representative Office hosted a dinner for the Centrex delegation, Tashi la, and Regional President Kunchok la. The TYC President expressed his gratitude to Kungoe Kalsang Gyaltsen la and the staff of the Taiwan Representative Office for their dinner and support.

 

On February 5th, during the press conference for the Free Tibet Cycle Rally, TYC President and Information Secretary met with Taiwanese Members of Parliament, Mr. Puma Shen and Ms. Pei-yu Chen.

On February 7th, the delegation first held a meeting with the President and executive members of several NGOs at 9:00 AM. Later, they met with Mr. Lin Ming Shin, Taiwan’s Minister, and Mr. Kao Yung Chen, Commissioner of Taiwan’s National Human Rights Commission, at the Minister’s office. During the meeting, the TYC President expressed gratitude for Taiwan’s continued support for the Tibet cause, providing updates on the critical situation in Tibet, TYC’s ongoing campaigns, and potential future collaborations with Taiwan to counter the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Following the meeting, the TYC President participated in an interview at the DW regional office, after which they met with Mrs. Wu Pei Yi, Taiwan Member of Parliament and Vice President of the Taiwan Parliamentary Group for Tibet. The TYC President thanked Mrs. Wu for her unwavering support and requested her continued advocacy.

In the evening, the TYC delegation participated in a public talk at “Friday Philosophy,” where the TYC President and Information Secretary gave a presentation on Tibet’s issues and the role of TYC. The session included a Q&A, during which the TYC President responded the participants’ questions. Representative Kungoe Kalsang Gyaltsen la also attended the event and the program lasted for two hours.

On February 8th, the TYC delegation had a lunch meeting with the Professor WU Haojen, President of HRNTT, Tashi Tsering la, Shinyi, Penghsuan other board members, and the Presidents of several other NGOs. The TYC President expressed gratitude to HRNTT for their hospitality and productive arrangements during their visit to Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of a close relationship between TYC and HRNTT.

On February 9th, the delegation met with Mr. Hung Shen-Han, Minister of Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor and President of the Parliamentary Group for Tibet, at the HRNTT office. The discussion focused on Tibet and international issues. The TYC President thanked Minister Hung for his leadership and support for Tibet’s just cause.

In the evening, Tashi Tsering la and RTYC Taiwan President Kunchok la saw off the TYC President and Information Secretary at the airport. The TYC delegation had a productive engagement in Taipei, Taiwan, before returning to India.

MORE DETAILS HERE

 

 

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