Tshering Gyalpo Tsarong, former RTYC President of Kalimpong, presented the book Voice for the Voiceless to prominent Bollywood personalities—singer Shaan, former cricketer and public figure Navjot Singh Sidhu, and actress Malaika Arora—in honour of the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
The gesture was deeply symbolic, rooted in Tsarong’s desire to pay tribute to nine decades of His Holiness’s unwavering commitment to compassion, peace, and service to humanity. “It was inspired by a wish to honour His Holiness’s 90 years of compassion and selfless service,” he shared, adding that the values of compassion and non-violence have consistently guided his own journey.
Choosing Kalimpong as the setting for this initiative carried special significance. The town, Tsarong noted, shares a profound spiritual connection with His Holiness, making it a fitting place to reaffirm the message of harmony and coexistence. The book Voice for the Voiceless, according to him, represents standing up for compassion and humanity—principles that lie at the heart of His Holiness’s teachings.
Among these teachings, the idea of universal responsibility and kindnessresonates most deeply with Tsarong. In a world increasingly marked by conflict and division, he believes such messages are more relevant than ever. “The world needs peace now more than at any other time,” he observed.
By presenting the book to influential figures from the entertainment world, Tsarong aimed to bridge spiritual wisdom with popular culture. Celebrities, he believes, possess voices that reach millions, and with influence comes responsibility. “Influence should inspire good,” he said, emphasizing that art, cinema, and music have the power to touch hearts beyond boundaries and spread messages of peace effectively.
The response from the Bollywood luminaries was described as warm, respectful, and heartfelt, underscoring a shared reverence for His Holiness and acknowledgment of his enduring global impact. The initiative also sought to inspire younger generations, encouraging them to engage with values of compassion, humility, and kindness in their everyday lives.
Reflecting on His Holiness’s legacy, Tsarong described his greatest contribution as promoting peace beyond religion and politics, making compassion a universal human responsibility. He stressed that ordinary people can follow these teachings through simple acts of everyday kindness.
Looking ahead, Tsarong revealed that more initiatives centred on peace, compassion, and social responsibility are planned. He believes communities like Kalimpong have an important role to play in global conversations by consistently promoting harmony and coexistence.
Summing up the essence of the initiative, he described it as “a tribute spreading compassion through influential voices.” His message to the youth remains clear and timeless: “Let compassion guide your path.”
