Interview with the President and the Spiritual Guide of the Garuda Foundation
Interviewer: What does “Garuda” mean?
President: In Buddhism, Garuda is a mythical bird-spirit known for its immense power and its ability to soar across vast distances. It symbolizes freedom, protection, and wisdom.
Why is the project called the Brahmaputra Project?
The members of Kailash Onlus Bergamo chose the name. It is called the Brahmaputra Project because the hostel is located near the Brahmaputra River in Tezpur.
Interviewer: When was the Foundation established?
President: It was founded in 2017.
Interviewer: What is the reason behind choosing this name?
Geshe-la: We chose the name Garuda in honor of our ancestors, who carried this name with pride. Their legacy continues to inspire and guide us in our work.
Interviewer: Tell us more about your ancestors and about yourself, Geshe-la?
Geshe-la: I was born in Zimithang and belong to a tribe known as the Monpa. Regarding my ancestors, my great-grandfather was Jhakyong Dorje Dhamdoe, and it is from him that the name Garuda originates.
My grandfather’s name was Tsongpa Ngima, and my father’s name was Dorje Tsering. My mother’s name was Choekyong Wangmo Kee; she belonged to the Kee family in Mokto village. Her father’s name was Lama Choekyong Kee and her mother’s name was Tashi Tsomo.
My ancestors have lived in the Mon region of India since the time of British rule, so I am Indian. In Tawang, people like us are called Shoepa.
And if you ask about my ethnicity, it is Tibetan.
If you want to know more about my distant ancestors, we traditionally believe that they were all monkeys (laughs).
Interviewer: I see. Your explanation makes everything much clearer.
Now I understand that you are Monpa (Tawang Shoepa) by heritage, ethnically Tibetan, and an Indian citizen by birth.
Geshe La: Yes indeed
I am Monpa and Indian, and I am also Tibetan.
There is no contradiction.
Q. What is the main purpose of the Foundation?
President: The main purpose of the Foundation is to preserve Tibetan culture, language, traditions, and Buddhist heritage, while also providing educational opportunities for those in need.
To fulfill this mission, we have established the Brahmaputra Hostel in Tezpur, which currently accommodates around 90 children.
Q. Who is eligible to reside in the hostel? Is it only for the Buddhist community?
Geshe-la: Absolutely not. We do not help or select anyone based on their religion. Our Foundation and the hostel are open to everyone, regardless of their beliefs. We respect all faiths equally.
Interviewer:
Thank you very much, Geshe-la and the president, for your time and for sharing your experiences, your family history, and your wisdom with us. Your explanations have given us a much deeper understanding of your heritage and the values that guide the Garuda Foundation.
We truly appreciate your openness and the clarity you have offered. It has been an honour to speak with you.