The atmosphere in the Kirti Monastery, nestled in Sichuan's Aba region, is thick with tension and prayer. Risk lingers in every whispered sentiment as monks, shrouded in crimson robes, express their deep concerns over China's oppressive regime. As the Dalai Lama turns 90, the urgency of who will succeed him weighs heavily on the community's heart.
Located outside what Beijing deems the Tibet Autonomous Region, Aba has been a hotspot of Tibetan resistance for decades. The monastery’s legacy includes tragic self-immolations and violent uprisings, and even now, the shadow of Chinese authorities looms—cameras and officers watching every move.
Among the monks, a prevailing sense of dread pervades discussions about basic civil rights and cultural preservation. Amidst Beijing's enhanced surveillance and restrictions, Tibetans face policies that limit their language and spiritual education. New rules mandate that children must attend Chinese state schools, cutting ties to traditional teachings and practices.
While the Dalai Lama’s recent statements suggest he will choose his successor from abroad, China intends to select a leader who aligns with its mandates, setting the stage for a complex power struggle. With both faith and identity under siege, the Tibetan people’s resilience and right to their heritage remain crucial. As cultural and spiritual traditions clash with political agendas, the world watches anxiously, wondering how many voices will endure in the daunting silence.
