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.

Australia Tibet Council Delegation Meets Tibetan Civil Society

On 19 March, 2026, the Australia Tibet Council delegation visited the Tibetan Youth Congress for a meaningful engagement with Tibetan civil society representatives. The delegation included Ms Emma Davidson (Former Member of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly), Ms Sarah Redshaw (Councillor, Blue Mountains Local Council), Ms Brittney Henderson (Melbourne candidate for VIC State Parliament and an Australian Indigenous woman of Wiradjuri and Bunurong heritage), Ms Siobhan Isherwood (Councillor, Newcastle Local Council), Mr Michael Osborne (former Newcastle councillor and climate academic at Newcastle University), Ms Janet Rice (Co-Chair, ATC), and Dr Zoe Bedford (Executive Director, ATC).

The meeting was held in the presence of Mr Tsering Chomphel, President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, along with representatives from various Tibetan civil society organizations.

The discussion was both productive and engaging, focusing on the ongoing Tibetan movement and the vital role of civil society in advancing the Tibetan cause. The delegation shared valuable perspectives and insights, contributing to a meaningful and constructive exchange of ideas.

Central Tibetan Youth Congress Receives Visit from RTYC Japan President

On March 13, 2026, the Central Tibetan Youth Congress received a visit from Tsering Dorjee, President of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress, Japan. He was welcomed by TYC Centrex President Tsering Chomphel la, General Secretary Tenzin Lobsang la, and former President Gonpo Dhundup la, reflecting the unity that binds Tibetan Youth Congress chapters worldwide.
The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for open, constructive dialogue. Both sides held candid and wide-ranging discussions on planning future activities and campaigns in Japan. They emphasised new strategies to further strengthen and consolidate the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Japan, aiming to make it an even more dynamic and impactful force for the Tibetan freedom movement.
The discussions were marked by purpose, respect, and unwavering commitment to the Tibetan cause. Both parties expressed their resolve to work more closely in coordination and collaboration. They recognised that a strong and united Tibetan Youth Congress is essential. This applies at both the central and chapter levels to advance Tibet’s struggle internationally.
The meeting concluded on an inspiring and optimistic note. It reaffirmed the bonds of solidarity. It also reaffirmed the collective determination to serve the Tibetan people with renewed energy, dedication, and resolve.
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