Bylakuppe - India, May 18, 2007
Putting into action the words of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetan Volunteers for Animals (TVA) has started a 2 month long program to give basic teachings on Buddhism to the Tibetan people in south. His Holiness during his last visit to Hunsur and Bylakuppe in January suggested to organize programs to teach the basics of Buddhism to the layman.
TVA started its program - "Compassion in Action" on 27th April, 2007 beginning with teaching at Bylakuppe Dekyi Larso Camp 1.
The program covers:
1) Introduction to Buddhism (Principles, ideologies and characteristics)
2) Karma and Life after death
3) The 10 non-virtuous actions
4) Benefits of practicing Bodicitta
5) Importance of practicing love and compassion towards all the sentient beings
6) Question-Answer session
Photo: Mr. Rinchen Lhaze addressing the crowd
"Many Tibetans don't know the basics of Buddhism. They just follow the tradition, doing prayers, circumambulating stupas and chanting mantras. I feel it's very important for everyone to know and understand the ideology and characteristics of Buddhism." says Mr. Rinchen Lhaze, one of the Directors of TVA.
Geshes and Khenpos from Sera-Monastery and Namdroling Monastery were invited to give the teachings. The teachings were given separately for each camp. There are total 20 camps in Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement.
"People must understand and learn to put the teachings of Buddha into action. It's only through action, we can make a difference hence can make this world a better place to live in." says Mr. Lobsang Monlam, Managing Director TVA.
The response from the audience was great and the program at Bylakuppe concluded on 18th April, that is twenty days after its initiation. TVA activists are now in Kollegal Tibetan Settlement to spread its message of peace and compassion to the people of Kollegal. The program in Kollegal will start on 20th April with Village "A". After Kollegal, Tibetan Settlements in Mundgod and Hunsur will be covered.
TVA expresses its heartfelt gratitude towards Department of Religion & Culture for their donation of Rs.10,000/- for TVA's 'Compassion in Action' program.
TVA is a registered non-government & non-profit organization based in Mysore, South India.