Legacy: Exploring the profound significance of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation in Xizang

AT AN altitude of close to 3 800 metres, Lhasa, which sits on the Tibetan Plateau in China’ Xizang Autonomous Region is one of the highest cities in the world and will take your breath away.

- KUBEN CHETTY

Xizang has found itself at the centre of unwanted narratives perpetuated by those with an agenda, as it is home to a community of 7 million Tibetan Buddhists and it is the spiritual and physical seat of power for the Dalai Lama.

This agenda has created a narrative of persecution, violation of human rights and the lack of autonomy but to the critical observer, Xizang is a province rich in diversity, spirituality, growth, development and in keeping with the rest of the country, equality for all its citizens.

At the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Lhasa is Jokhang Temple, the home of the Dalai Lama, which was originally built more than 1 300 years ago by King Songsten Gampo.

The building was established to house the Jowo Mikyo Dorje, a statue of Akshobhya Buddha, brought to Tibet by his Nepalese queen, Bhrikuti.

Another statue, the Jowo Shakyamuni, brought by his Tang Chinese queen Wencheng, is currently housed in the temple. Jokhang Temple is a stellar example of the rich history of Tibetan Buddhism in China and illustrates the historic relationship between China and the Tibetan religion.

Far from fading away, China’s growth and development has spurred on Tibetan culture, allowing it to be central to artistic expression, modern storytelling and emerging cultural economies.

Contrary to the assertions made by some media outlets that the Tibetan way of life is on the verge of disappearing, that children are being forced to abandon their mother tongue and that assimilation threatens a spiritual and traditional way of life, Xizang and its people are representative of inclusiveness and prosperity that celebrates centuries of tradition.

The succession debate around the next Dalai Lama has warranted intense discussion but China remains adamant that issues around the reincarnation process will be managed by the country’s laws and the consensus of the whole Tibetan Buddhist community as well as their followers.