Cultural Suppression in Tibet: Two Singers Detained Over Song Honoring Dalai Lama

In a recent crackdown on Tibetan cultural expression, Chinese authorities have detained two young Tibetans, Tsukte (commonly known as Asang) and Pelkyong. According to the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), the duo was apprehended for uploading a cover of a song celebrating the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday. The arrests occurred in early July 2025, soon after their performance gained traction on Chinese social media platform Kuaishou.

The song in question, 'Prince of Peace,' originally written in 2006, has been deemed politically sensitive by Beijing due to its laudatory references to the Dalai Lama's life and legacy. Asang's brief rise in popularity was abruptly halted when his Kuaishou account was disabled. Known for promoting Tibetan heritage through music, Asang, a prominent figure from the Naktsang family, is trained by Dhunglen artist Gebey, also previously detained for his art.

Tensions have escalated with the detention of Tibetan monk Tsewang Dhongo, who was taken into custody after posting an image celebrating the Dalai Lama's birthday. His location remains undisclosed over four weeks later, a development raising concerns of a broader clampdown on Tibetan culture and religious identity. TCHRD urges the release of all detainees and calls for an end to the criminalization of peaceful cultural acts.

(With inputs from agencies.)