1959, a year every Tibetan remembers with sadness and regret, was a turning point in the history of the 'Roof of the World'. With the Chinese Communist occupation of their country and the genocidal destruction that followed, peace and freedom came to an end for the six million Tibetans. The only ray of hope in this bleak, outlook was the safe arrival of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in India.
Here is an account of His Holiness the Dalai Lama 'if escape, told by one of those most closely associated with it. Risking his life and the safety of his family, Kunga Samten Dewatshang, a leader of the Chushi Gangdrug guerrillas, escorted the Dalai Lama from the Norbulingka summer palace, right under the Chinese army's nose, on the first lap to freedom. This is the story of a courageous man, a typical Khampa, a native of eastern Tibet, who recalls a way of life that is now gone forever.
And yet there remains hope. This is also a story of resilience, of people who, having lost almost everything, managed to recreate their lives and pass on their faith and values to their children. Crucial to this success has been the abiding inspiration of the Dalai Lama's presence. And thereby hangs the importance of his having been able to escape.
Flight at the Cuckoo's Behest: The Life and Times of a Tibetan Freedom FighterKunga Samten Dewatshang, Paljor Publications, Paperback, 1997, 189 Pages, $12.95
Dorjee Wangdi Dewatshang if one of the first formally trained Tibetan architects. He has a private architectural practice in. New Delhi, and is currently engaged in several projects that endeavour to preserve the spirit of Tibetan architecture, which if being systematically destroyed in Tibet. In addition to his architectural work, he takes a keen interest in Tibetan affairs.
Foreword
Preface and Acknowledgements
Escape from the Summer Palace
My Village
Childhood
To Lhasa, the Holy City
Arrival in Lhasa
Restoring Family Honour
Change of Residence
Pilgrimage
Birth of the Chushi Gangdrug
A Warrior and a Family Man
Into Exile
Starting a New Life
Into Exile Once More
Annexures
Index
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