French Tibetologist Claude Arpi cautions against Chinese interference in sacred reincarnation traditions; Indian Army underscores Indo-Tibetan civilizational bond at Shimla seminar.
Shimla, June 29 — The sacred Tibetan tradition of reincarnation and emanation must remain untouched by political interference, warned noted French scholar Claude Arpi during a landmark seminar held at the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) in Shimla. The scholar expressed deep concern over China's attempts to influence or hijack this centuries-old spiritual process, asserting that the choice of reincarnation belongs solely to the current Dalai Lama.
Speaking at the seminar titled "Interwoven Roots: Shared Indo-Tibetan Heritage", Arpi emphasized that His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is expected to make a significant announcement regarding the future of reincarnation on his upcoming 90th birthday, which falls on July 6.
“The decision to reincarnate, or to emanate spiritually, is a deeply personal and spiritual choice that lies only with His Holiness. Any attempt to politicize this tradition is a threat to Tibetan identity and faith,” Arpi said.
Dalai Lama’s 2011 Declaration Still Central
Arpi also revisited the 2011 religious conference held in Dharamshala, where the Dalai Lama extensively discussed the meaning and future of the reincarnation system. The gathering had over 100 senior monks and representatives from various Tibetan and Buddhist sects.
The spiritual leader had then hinted that a more definitive statement regarding his reincarnation would come at a later stage — a promise many believe will be fulfilled on his 90th birthday.
Declining Tibetan Numbers in India a Concern
In a notable revelation, Arpi flagged a demographic concern — that nearly 40% of the Tibetan population in India has left, raising alarm about cultural preservation.
“We must rebuild strategic and cultural links, particularly with Tibetan regions like Ngari and Western Tibet, which have historical, civilizational, and spiritual ties with India,” Arpi urged.
Army Stresses Cultural Diplomacy & Strategic Vigilance
Delivering the keynote address, Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army's Central Command, emphasized the critical role of cultural diplomacy in national strategy. He reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to safeguarding not just territorial borders but India’s civilizational and spiritual identity.
“India and Tibet are two ancient civilizations with interwoven roots. This seminar allows us to explore our shared identity and re-emphasize strategic and spiritual kinship,” said Lt Gen Sengupta.
He also linked strategic military readiness with the cultural terrain, stating,
“From the 1962 Sino-India war to Nathu La clashes, the Himalayas demand surveillance, connectivity, and nuanced readiness.”
Key Takeaways from the Seminar
The seminar concluded with a joint appeal from scholars and military experts to:
- Strengthen border area development and cultural ties with Tibet
- Promote archaeological and archival research into shared Indo-Tibetan heritage
- Revive cultural exchanges, including:
- Opening new routes for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
- Improving radio communication across Himalayan borders
- Preserving endangered Himalayan languages like Bhoti and Sherpa
As the Dalai Lama’s milestone birthday nears, eyes across the world — especially in China and India — are set on what he will declare about his reincarnation. In the backdrop of growing geopolitical interest in Tibetan affairs, voices like Claude Arpi's serve as a crucial reminder that sacred traditions must remain above political manipulation.