Itanagar, March 31 The second edition of the Freedom Trail, retracing the historic route taken by Tibetan spiritual leader Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, during his entry into India in 1959, was launched on Tuesday at Zemithang in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The six-day foot march from Kenzamani to Tawang will culminate at Pungteng Tse on April 5, commemorating the spiritual leader's historic journey and promoting the values of peace, resilience, and cultural heritage associated with the event.
The Dalai Lama had stayed at Pungteng Tse after entering India through Kenzamani.
The programme held at Zemithang was attended by Lungla MLA Tsering Lhamu, Tawang zila parishad chairperson (ZPC) Leki Gombu, the Abbot of Tawang Monastery, Lungla ADC Tashi Dhondup, officers of the Indian Army, among others, an official communique informed here.
Addressing the occasion, Lhamu highlighted the significance of the trail, stating that participants were walking the same path that was once taken under extraordinary circumstances.
She said the march symbolizes unity, remembrance, and cultural pride, and welcomed all participants taking part in the event.
The dignitaries present on the occasion offered prayers for the long life and good health of the Dalai Lama and urged people to follow his teachings of compassion, peace, and harmony in their daily lives.
The Dalai Lama entered India on March 31, 1959, through Kenzamani near Zemithang after he escaped from Tibet following the uprising against Chinese rule.
The annual trail retracing this route has since evolved into a symbolic journey that honors the historic episode while promoting unity, spiritual reflection, and the enduring message of peace associated with the Tibetan spiritual leader.