Tashi Tewa

            There would be very few who wouldn't imagine an ideal and just society, a sort of an utopia. How would you, then define a just or an ideal society and what do you mean by it? The questions have directed many Greek philosophers towards a relentless quest too. 'Long' and the 'big' books written by the likes of Plate, Socrates, and Aristotle still exist. Such question still shapes our continued and contemporary way of thinking and it has indeed affected our daily lives too though its conceptualization and expressions could be different to many. In my understanding of a just society, the very idea of recognition, respect and a 'dignified life' remain pivotal. Without recognition and respect, it would be nearly impossible to discuss such society and even begin the discussion. There are also 'anomalies' and 'deviance' within the Himalayan community, such as Dolpo, known as 'Gaa-ra' who are still treated 'unequally'. Unk

              I was amazed and curious when I saw one of my friends posting her picture in wechat. I saw a woman-nun teaching a group of another women. I have rarely seen such activity though I am sort of aware of this fact in any nun Monastery. Her origin in Dolpo also added mine pursuit. Once I saw her picture, I instantly asked my friend, Wangdrak, "who is she?" and he said: "She is my sister, who is the First Lopon of Dolpo. Her name is Nisher Bhumchok and she is now in Inda". This further made me anxious over why she chose to spend her life in India than in her village and why she became a Nun. As she is now in India, it was little hard to communicate directly with her but with Wangdrak support, I am glad that I somewhat succeeded to complete this brief interview with her. This short conversation including her reply will definitely shed some lights over the situation of girls and women of Dolpo.                                                          Pi