Thousands of people in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang took part in a peace march on Tuesday, demanding that His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama be conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. The peaceful gathering echoed the sentiments of the local Monpa community and Buddhist followers across the region.
Organized by the Save Mon Region Federation (SMRF), the march began early morning from the historic Tawang monastery and moved through the town with chants of peace, unity, and gratitude towards the Tibetan spiritual leader.
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Spiritual and cultural significance
Tawang holds a special place in the life of the Dalai Lama. It was his first refuge in India when he fled Tibet in 1959. The town also houses the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and the second-largest in the world. For the Monpa community, the Dalai Lama represents more than a religious figure; he is a symbol of hope, compassion, and cultural identity.
Speaking at the event, SMRF president Lobsang Gyatso emphasized that the Bharat Ratna would be a fitting tribute to the Dalai Lama’s lifelong message of peace, non-violence, and interfaith harmony. “His Holiness has not only guided us spiritually but has also stood as a global icon of peace. No one deserves the Bharat Ratna more,” he said.
Widespread support across Northeast
The peace march saw participation from monks, students, local leaders, and residents of all age groups. Many carried posters that read, “Bharat Ratna for Messenger of Peace,” “India’s Jewel, Our Dalai Lama,” and “A True Son of India.” According to organizers, more than 6,000 people joined the march, despite the region’s hilly terrain and unpredictable weather.
Support for the cause is also spreading beyond Arunachal. Monpa groups and Buddhist associations in Sikkim, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh have echoed similar demands in recent months. Leaders from these areas have called the Dalai Lama “India’s spiritual bridge with Tibet” and stressed the need to honor him appropriately.
Cultural identity and national pride
Tawang’s peace march was not just a religious demonstration. It was also a strong statement about cultural identity and loyalty to India. In recent years, China has repeatedly claimed Arunachal Pradesh as part of its territory, describing it as “South Tibet.” However, events like this march serve as a reminder of the region’s firm connection with India.
Local MLA Tsering Tashi, who joined the march, said the demand for the Bharat Ratna comes not just from the Monpas but from all Indians who value peace and dignity. “The Dalai Lama embodies the values that India has always stood for. It is time we recognize him with the highest honour,” he stated.
Political voices join in
Several political leaders from Arunachal and neighbouring states have lent their support to the call. Former Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who hails from the state, recently tweeted his admiration for the Dalai Lama’s contributions. Although he did not directly comment on the Bharat Ratna demand, his message aligned with the growing chorus of respect.
Earlier this year, BJP MP Tapir Gao also raised the matter in Parliament, urging the central government to consider the award. He highlighted that the Dalai Lama’s teachings have benefited generations of Indians and continue to shape the nation’s image worldwide.
A peaceful legacy
The Dalai Lama, now 89 years old, remains active in global peacebuilding. Despite his age, he continues to travel, speak, and meet with world leaders. His advocacy for non-violence earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, and he remains one of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders.
His teachings have influenced countless people, including in India, where he has lived in exile for over six decades. Over the years, he has nurtured a peaceful relationship between India and the Tibetan community, making India a spiritual homeland for thousands of Tibetans.
Government response awaited
While the peace march has sent a strong message, the central government has yet to respond officially. However, public support for the demand is gaining momentum across digital platforms. Hashtags like #BharatRatnaForDalaiLama and #TawangPeaceMarch are trending among Indian users on social media.
Organizers from SMRF said they will submit a memorandum to the President and Prime Minister of India, requesting formal consideration of the award. “This is a people’s movement rooted in faith and gratitude. We believe our voices will be heard,” Lobsang Gyatso added.
The Tawang peace march has not only highlighted the immense respect the Dalai Lama commands among his followers but also brought national attention to the demand for India’s highest civilian honour. As Arunachal Pradesh continues to assert its identity within the Indian Union, this march stands as a peaceful yet powerful call to recognize a man who has dedicated his life to peace, compassion, and spiritual harmony.
By walking through the streets of Tawang in unity, the people reminded the nation that honouring the Dalai Lama is not just a symbolic gesture—it is a celebration of the values India holds dear.
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