Villager in the City: 2006-11-12

18 November 2006

Pingalwara

Pingalwara Center: A Place for Hope, Health and Happiness

This was a remarkable place, and the story behind it is even more compelling. Pingalwara's formation was sparked in 1934 by Bhagat Puran Singh Ji in Amritsar, Punjab.

For over 14 years, Bhagat Puran Singh devoted himself to caring for an abandoned child with severe disabilities, often carrying him on his back. The Partition of Punjab in 1947, which ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan, was a time of unimaginable suffering and upheaval. Millions of families were forced to leave everything behind in Pakistan to seek safety in India. My own grandparents experienced this harrowing journey, surviving the ordeal but tragically losing many of their children along the way. It was a profoundly traumatic period in India's history, marked by loss and despair.

In 1948, as he began to establish Pingalwara, Bhagat Puran Singh often stood on the streets, reaching out to strangers for help. With the donations he gathered, he provided food, clothing, and medical care for the sick and suffering. He not only fed and bathed those in need but also ensured they received proper medical treatment. No matter the challenges he faced—whether it was war, disease, or harsh weather—his spirit remained unbroken. He consistently rescued those who were stranded, caring for everyone, regardless of their condition.

Pingalwara, which translates to "a house or asylum for the disabled, handicapped, or crippled," opened its doors to a diverse community. It also cares for the elderly, individuals who have experienced abuse, and those suffering from terminal illnesses. The center features a touching museum dedicated to Bhagat Puran Singh, showcasing photographs from his early life and simple belongings. His legacy is a beautiful tapestry woven with compassion and hope.

It is said that "...Pingalwara is full of legends that would never make the newspapers—success stories about those saved from garbage bins in their infancy, girls mistreated and abandoned by their families, and mentally challenged adults who would otherwise face a life in harsh asylums" (All India Pingalwara Charitable Society).

Bhagat Puran Singh was truly a visionary. At a time when many disregarded critical environmental issues, he tirelessly fought for the preservation of nature. He advocated for reforestation, the conservation of natural resources, and a sustainable lifestyle, urging people to limit their reliance on fossil fuels.

During our visit to Pingalwara, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Inderjit Kaur, who now carries on Bhagat Puran Singh's noble work. She graciously showed us around the main branch, where living quarters and daily classes provide a nurturing environment for neglected children and women with mental impairments. We also visited the branch on the outskirts of Amritsar, home to a school for underprivileged children and a center offering prosthetics and physical therapy. The dedication of the employees and volunteers was deeply inspiring; they were fully committed to teaching, repairing, building, and providing essential services to those in need.

We felt profoundly moved by their efforts and chose to support their cause with a donation, knowing that any contribution would play a critical role in enhancing the lives of those in need. Pingalwara's work is vital, creating a safe and compassionate space for those who need it most.

Photos

17 November 2006

Dharamsala to Amritsar

A Surprisingly Arduous Journey

Our journey from Dharamsala to Amritsar was absolute madness. The traffic congestion, road closures, detours, and holiday celebrations in honor of Baba Buddha (1506-1631) made traveling quite arduous.

As we finally entered the Amritsar district, I could feel the frustration in the air as traffic turned into a constant stop-and-go rhythm. Each time we halted, I noticed a group of Sikh boys eagerly jumping onto our jeep, ready to clean it and enthusiastically offer beverages. It seemed almost normal to me, but since most of the team members have never traveled in this manner, their reaction was funny. Some thought we were being overwhelmed or even attacked. I took a moment to reassure them, explaining that the holiday was a time for celebration, and the local people were simply expressing their hospitality by cleaning vehicles and offering drinks to travelers along the busy roads. They were not begging or asking for handouts, nor trying to harm us.

We left Dharamsala in the early afternoon but did not reach Amritsar until about 8 PM. Our new drivers were not very skilled, and we really missed our Punjabi-speaking Tibetan drivers. Once we arrived in Amritsar, Tom and his other guide, Hekani, arranged for us to stay at a guest house that was unsettling and rather creepy for most of the team. Some team members refused to stay there, so we opted for the "Ritz Plaza". I wasn’t thrilled about it, but it was the best option we had at that point of the night. It had been an overwhelming day of travel for the team so having a place to stay for the night provided a sense of calm.

The government of Punjab needs to consider improving the conditions of their roads and highways, along with more practical design and infrastructure. Perhaps they could entertain proposals from experts in engineering and architecture as a starting point for much-needed reform and restructuring.

The highlight of our visit to Amritsar was undoubtedly Harimandar Sahib, known as the Sikh Golden Temple to many westerners. Its architectural beauty and serene ambiance left a lasting impression on all of us. Sitting by the water's edge near the Gurudwara instilled a deep sense of peace. I sincerely hope that the administrators continue to uphold its beauty and protect it from any deterioration, as it is a cherished sanctuary for so many.

Lisa and I went to the Golden Temple the night we arrived in Amritsar, October 26, 2006.

15 November 2006

His Holiness the Dalai Lama

It was a rare privilege to have a private audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, an opportunity that many have noted as significant. Following our meeting, I took a moment to reflect on the impact of this encounter. I feel inspired to cultivate greater discipline in my meditation practice and to inspire open dialogue and understand in our communities. I am particularly grateful for this opportunity due to the multifaceted role the Dalai Lama plays. He exemplifies both spiritual and political leadership, having dedicated his life to the betterment of the Tibetan people. His efforts in fostering education while encouraging a strong sense of cultural identity are truly admirable. The Dalai Lama is revered as the reincarnation of each of the previous thirteen Dalai Lamas and is believed to be a manifestation of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. This remarkable lineage dates back to a Brahmin boy who lived during the time of Buddha Shakyamuni.

When addressing his current objectives, His Holiness articulated two primary areas of focus: first, the promotion of essential human values such as compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, contentment, and self-discipline; and second, the advancement of religious harmony and mutual understanding among the world’s major faiths. He emphasized that despite differing philosophies, all major religions share a fundamental message regarding the importance of being good human beings. These commitments are inspiring ideals that can guide our aspirations for a better world. The Dalai Lama possesses a remarkable presence, and I was struck by his strength of mind, character, and intellect. He is proficient in multiple languages and has successfully advocated for the Tibetan cause on a global scale, solidifying his role as a spiritual leader for the Tibetan people.

14 November 2006

Dharamsala, Part II

Education in Dharamsala

We were fortunate enough to interview directors of various Tibetan schools, nunneries and the Transit School. When Tibetan refugees arrive in India, they are transported to the refugee center. They await their rare meeting and personal blessing from His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

After the blessing, younger refugees are placed in the Sherub Gatsel Lobling School (Tibetan Transit School) where they have the option to remain for up to five years. The school has approximately 700 students. There they are taught a trade, language skills, technical training and education along with food and board. These young refugees have the option to stay the five years or leave earlier. After their time at the Transit School, either they go to a regular school, begin working, or are placed in one of the many Tibetan centers all over India. Some go back to Tibet so that the Tibetan culture is preserved and the aim of independence is never forgotten. I was impressed with their organization and outreach to the International community.

We interviewed the Director of a Tibetan and Indian school in Dharamsala who is a very excited about the work he does with the schools. Because the school is a mix of Tibetan and Indian students, he stressed ongoing cultural exchanges during childhood. This ensures a mutual understanding between ethnic Indians and the Tibetans. He told us the Indian government has been good to the Tibetans and allowed them to freely live in Dharamsala, while allowing them to preserve their culture...in many ways better than in Tibet. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has aided his people well, and people all over have been generous to the Tibetans out of care and concern.

School children taking a break at the Tibetan cultural festival. Tibetan school girls out for a walk.

Dining hall for primary school children

My research has led me to the understanding that the schools in Dharamsala are largely in satisfactory condition and are undergoing continuous improvements and modernization efforts. It is encouraging to note that Tibetan schools and the newly established villages in the region benefit from significant support through international philanthropic initiatives. Funding is also provided by esteemed organizations such as the Dalai Lama Foundation, the Tibet Administration, and various governmental programs.

Many Tibetan schools face pressing issues such as the need for enhanced building structures, better quality benches, softer mattresses, and more nutritious food options. The strategies employed by the Tibetan government in exile to develop, maintain, and modernize their educational system can serve as a valuable reference for Indian states that have struggled to achieve similar advancements in their public schools and are working towards enhancing their public education infrastructure. This collaborative spirit may pave the way for future improvements in schooling across the region. It was very inspirational to observe many of these schools in Dharamsala. unable to do the same for their own schools.

Kids in their music class excited to see us!

Tibetan girl dressed for her art and music class.

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