MATTER BOOK WORLD

Text Copyright Ankush Kanwar 2024

Cover illustrations Copyright Ankush Kanwar 2024

Cover design Copyright Ankush Kanwar 2024

All Rights Reserved

ISBN 978-93-340-9703-0

Ankush Kanwar asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of the work

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BACK IN TIME

Before the Tibet–Ladakh–Mughal War (1679–1684), the Kingdom of Ladakh held control over the entire Ngari region. Ngari is best known for Mount Kailash, also called Sumeru, and Lake Manasarovar. In that era, Ladakh was a significant power in the region, exerting influence over the vast and strategically important Ngari area.

Central Tibet, under the leadership of the Fifth Dalai Lama, had been consolidating its power and aimed to expand its influence. This expansionist drive led to a military campaign to conquer Ngari. The Central Tibetan forces managed to occupy Ngari, but their advance into Ladakh itself was met with fierce resistance. The Mughal Empire, with its base in Kashmir, intervened in the conflict, siding with Ladakh. The Mughal forces played a crucial role in repelling the Tibetan troops from Ladakh proper, thereby shifting the balance of power in the region. In response to the conflict and the involvement of external powers, Lhasa (the religious and administrative center of Tibet) sought to resolve the situation diplomatically. To end this, Lhasa sent the sixth Drukchen from Bhutan, Gyalwang Mipham Wangpo, as an envoy to negotiate a truce with Ladakh. The negotiations culminated in the Treaty of Tingmosgang. Under this treaty, Ladakh agreed to cede the entire Ngari region, which was previously under its control, to Lhasa. However, as part of the agreement, Ladakh retained a small area around Minsar. This region kept facilitating the worship and pilgrimage activities at Mount Kailash. Despite this considerable territorial loss, the Ladakhi king happily preserved a vital cultural and spiritual connection for himself and his people. The Treaty of Tingmosgang thus marked a significant realignment of territorial control in the region, reducing Ladakh's territorial holdings and influence in the years to come. In 1841, Dogra General Zorawar Singh launched a military campaign in Tibet. Chinese and Tibetan forces fought side by side and beheaded Zorawar Singh at the mouth of the Sutlej River. Following the defeat of Dogra General Zorawar Singh and the retreat of his troops, the Dogra-Ladakhi forces engaged the Tibetan forces at the Battle of Chushul. This crucial battle took place in the Chushul region, located in the southeastern part of Ladakh.

The outcome of the Battle of Chushul led to the signing of the 1842 Chushul Treaty between the parties involved, including representatives from Ladakh, Tibet, and the British. The primary terms of the treaty were to restore the status quo ante, with both sides agreeing to respect and maintain existing boundaries without encroaching on each other’s territories. The British opposed the Dogra campaign and played their classic game of balancing interests.

The 1842 Chushul Treaty effectively marked the end of significant territorial expansion by the Dogra rulers into Tibet. It also brought an end to the persistent Tibetan invasions into Ladakh, which had caused frequent conflicts and instability in the region. One of the significant outcomes of the treaty was the establishment of the Traditional Customary Line between Ladakh and Tibet. This line delineated the agreed-upon boundaries and served as a demarcation to prevent future disputes over territorial claims. The 1842 Chushul Treaty, following the successful Battle of Chushul, had several important provisions that influenced the regional geopolitics of the time. One of its key outcomes was the allocation of certain territories to regroup and it later achieved a significant victory over Gulab Singh, the then Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir. Specifically, the treaty granted Gulab Singh the right to inherit lands in Tibet that had previously been under Ladakhi control.

Let's Fast forward to October 26, 1947, when Hari Singh, the then Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, signed the Instrument of Accession to India, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s history. In this formal document, Hari Singh referred to himself with an elaborate title: His Highness Inder Mahinder, King of Kings, Maharaja Shri Hari Singh, Sovereign of Jammu & Kashmir, and Ruler of Western Tibet and other territories. By including the designation (Ruler of Western Tibet), Hari Singh acknowledged his historical claim over the territories in Tibet that had been inherited through the 1842 Chushul Treaty.

This reference was a recognition of the legacy of the Chushul Treaty and Gulab Singh’s earlier acquisition of lands in Tibet. It underscored the longstanding territorial claims and the intricate web of historical and political affiliations that influenced the princely states in the Indian subcontinent.

As part of the 1958 settlement, administrative boundaries and classifications were established for various regions within Ladakh, a territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh was divided into several tehsils(administrative sub-divisions), and specific villages were assigned to these tehsils for administrative purposes. One significant aspect of this settlement was the inclusion of Menser (Minsar) among the villages listed within the Ladakh tehsil. Menser, however, was a particularly contentious village because it was under Chinese occupation at the time. Menser is located southwest of Mount Kailash. It is close to the Tirthapuri Monastery on the bank of the Sutlej River. As Ladakh has now become a separate Union Territory in India, the issue of China's occupation of the Menser and Kailash region remains unresolved to this day.

PREFACE

In 2050 escalating confrontations occurred between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the high-altitude Himalayan Ranges. These desolate terrains, with their barren lands and snow-capped mountains, served as the setting for these clashes, highlighting their strategic significance despite the harsh conditions they posed for human survival. India and China, both nuclear powers, understood that engaging in a full-scale war in the high-altitude Himalayan regions would result in significant economic and human losses for both nations. As a result, both countries have maintained a status quo at the LAC, even though the number of troops on both sides has been steadily increasing in the conflict zone of the Himalayan ranges. In addition to the bolstering of troop numbers, there has been a substantial increase in the deployment of artillery, including long-range guns, mortars, and other heavy weaponry, which are being positioned to support ground forces and enhance defensive capabilities for both sides. The strategic placement of artillery is aimed at securing critical locations and deterring any potential advances by the opposing side.

Amid the military border tensions between the two nuclear-powered nations, there was growing concern in India over the disorderly conduct of the Chinese armed forces against Kailash pilgrims in China-occupied Minser. Numerous videos depicting pilgrim harassment have surfaced online. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has been known to deport pilgrims midway through their journey, citing baseless reasons such as suspicion of espionage or offensive behavior. China's refusal to engage in diplomatic discussions regarding this issue leaves India grappling with the challenge of controlling hate crimes and protecting its pilgrims in Chinese-occupied Minsar.

The unwavering devotion of Indian pilgrims to visit the revered Mount Kailash, the home of the Adi God Shiva, remains unshakable despite the physical and mental obstacles posed by PLA. Each year, a significant number of pilgrims from around the world travel to Mount Kailash to seek the blessings of the universe's creator and destroyer. This situation became significantly more intricate when following a recent and severe incident in which a violent clash between the armies at the LAC resulted in substantial casualties on both sides, China responded by completely closing all entry points to the Kailash Manasarovar Journey. This drastic measure is intended to express China's anger and frustration towards India. Following the ban, numerous theories have flooded the news channels and digital media. Some speculate that China's ban aims to deeply wound Indian religious sentiments. Additionally, some experts have proposed theories regarding the abundant availability of valuable minerals, precious metals, and gold mines in the Mount Kailash region that China is preparing to authorize multiple excavation sites near the sacred Mount Kailash region to capitalize on economic gains.

In recent times, the global media has been extensively focusing on the rapidly growing field of space exploration, particularly the ambitious colonization projects being planned for Mars. This intense coverage highlights the significant interest and investment being directed toward establishing human settlements on Mars, a key milestone in the broader quest for space exploration. Many people are convinced that the human race is the supreme and most advanced species in the entire universe. In the present day, a significant portion of the human population believes that God is a mere illusion and does not exist. The majority of countries and their media have voiced support for China's right to enforce its laws within its borders. Only a handful of nations have opposed this ban. The issue of Mount Kailash holds no substantial commercial benefits for most other countries, and both India and China hold strategic importance, leading many to avoid involvement in the matter. India has strongly condemned this decision and urged China to revoke it immediately. However, China has disregarded India's viewpoints and religious sentiments. With Kailash holding deep religious significance for Hindus, there was significant domestic pressure on the Indian government to resolve the situation by responding to the current situation. The decision to ban the Kailash pilgrimage and China's refusal to engage in bilateral discussions left India with no other choice but to take a strong stance. The Indian government issued an advisory to stop all imports of Chinese-made products and services. By imposing a complete ban on all Chinese products and services, India aimed to put pressure on China and compel them to the negotiating table and find a mutually beneficial solution at the LAC and the Kailash matter.

Chinese diplomats have expressed willingness to engage in discussions on the LAC and Kailash issues in order to alleviate tensions and explore opportunities for renewed trade and cooperation between the two countries. Delegates from India and China engaged in numerous round table discussions in an effort to find a mutually acceptable resolution to the issues surrounding the Line of Actual Control, the Kailash pilgrimage, and trade. However, reaching a final solution proved to be more challenging than anticipated. Several religious groups in India have prophesied impending catastrophic events, bringing misfortune to those who support this ill-fated decision and invoking the wrath of the God Shiva, urging governments and authorities to expedite the resolution of the Kailash pilgrimage issue.

After 3 years of ongoing conflict, India and China have finally made progress on the Kailash issue. This significant development involves India successfully persuading China to lift the ban on the Kailash pilgrimage, allowing it to take place once a year. In return, India has agreed to resume importing Chinese products. However, it's important to acknowledge that while this agreement represents a positive step, It is unlikely to have any substantial impact on the existing border tensions, as both nations' armies remain firm in their positions along the LAC.

After a prolonged three-year hiatus, a group of Indian saints and other Shiva devotee pilgrims, having received visa approval from the Chinese embassy, has finally arrived at the China border in pursuit of enlightenment. At the border, they were all filled with exhilaration as they prepared to visit a timeless symbol of divinity and wonder. Each member of the group carries a profound sense of devotion, singing, chanting, and praying with teary eyes as they seek the blessings of God Shiva at his revered home. Following the approval from the Chinese border security forces at the Nepal-Tibet border in Rasuwagadhi, all the pilgrims embarked on their pilgrimage journey toward Kerung City. They spent the night in Saga before continuing their travels to Lake Manasarovar and Lake Rakshastal. While crossing Lake Rakshastal, the leader of the saint group, Sage Rishya, shared the intriguing story of Ravana and the demon associated with Lake Rakshastal from Hindu mythology.

Sage Rishya's account reveals Ravana's unwavering dedication as he diligently performed intense penance on the banks of Lake Rakshastal to appease God Shiva. Impressed by Ravana's devotion, God Shiva appeared in a spiritual form and directed Ravana to seek his blessings and boons at Mount Kailash. Prior to embarking on his journey, Ravana purified himself in the waters of the lake Rakshastal. However, this act resulted in the infusion of negative energy into his body and soul, causing him to lose his ability to distinguish between right and wrong. This lack of discernment ultimately proved to be a significant factor in Ravana's downfall and the decline of his kingdom. According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Lake Rakshastal stands as a symbol of the darker aspects of Mother Earth, shrouded in negativity and darkness, devoid of any life within or around it.

Opposite to that, the tranquil waters of Lake Manasarovar exude positivity, brightness, and spiritual purity, making it a sacred place for pilgrims to take a cleansing bath. This serene lake, along with Lake Rakshastal, represents sacred and purifying qualities; together, the two lakes embody the concept of balance between good and evil forces. Meanwhile, the majestic Mount Kailash, which overlooks these lakes, symbolizes heaven’s door and the harmonizing force that maintains the equilibrium of good and evil on our earth.

The pilgrims' bus has now arrived at Lake Mansarovar, which serves as a base camp for the Kailash pilgrimage journey. Upon reaching, the pilgrims partake in the ritual of bathing and drinking from its holy waters. Witnessing Mount Kailash for the first time from Lake Mansarovar, tears rolled down the cheeks of most pilgrims as they were lost in the awe-inspiring view. Some chanted mantras, while others felt as if they were in the realm of heaven. After their sacred bath, when the pilgrims returned to their tents provided by the journey partners near the banks of Lake Manasarovar, they were alarmed and surprised to see numerous Chinese army structures and many troop battalions near the holy Lake Mansarovar.

Why has China established so many army camps in this sacred land? asked one of the pilgrims. With the presence of so many Chinese troops, I feel like we are in a war zone rather than a holy place. They are unfortunate souls who think they can even exert control over God, said Sage Rishya. In this day and age, a significant portion of the human population believes that it is more powerful than God. So, when will these people find the truth of life? asked one of the pilgrims. In my experience, anything in excess is a poison, said Sage Rishya. We all have to pay the price for our greed. While nature has provided us with everything we need to live and enjoy, we must not forget that it also has the power to take everything back from us. Sage Rishya, we need to leave now, urged the bus driver. Please get in the traveler to reach Mount Kailash on time. Very well, as you wish my lord, responded Sage Rishya.

As their bus headed towards Mount Kailash, a massive Chinese military convoy passed them. The convoy was transporting large equipment covered in green cloth to avoid detection. Pilgrim buses were forced to park at the roadside by Chinese military personnel.

It appears that China is installing windmills here, one of the pilgrims observed. These large structures could indeed be the fans and motors of windmills. You might be right, the bus driver agreed.

When the Chinese army vehicles, carrying heavy equipment, passed by, all the pilgrims' vehicles began their journey toward the holy peak of Mount Kailash, revered as the earthly manifestation of Adi Shiva.

CHAPTER 1

KAILASH BLOOD

After completing the circumambulation of Mount Kailash, Sage Rishya instructed his disciples to halt near Dirapuk Monastery. Sage Rishya gazed back at Shiva's abode, Mount Kailash, he folded his hands and remembered his master's prophecy about the journey.

We will set up our tents here, declared Sage Rishya. According to my master's prophecy, we must meditate and pray to Lord Shiva at this location. They are unfortunate souls who think they can even exert control over God, said Sage Rishya. In this day and age, a significant portion of the human population believes that it is more powerful than God.

All of Sage Rishya's disciples folded their hands in agreement and proceeded to pitch their tents. Seeing the Indian saints setting up their tents, nearby pilgrims joined in and offered their assistance. Together, they began chanting Vedic slokas of God Shiva, and in no time, all the tents were set up.

At the Mapang Yongcuo (Lake Manasarovar) Chinese army base camp, a PLA vehicle rolled in. A Chinese sergeant emerged from an army vehicle and was greeted by the sight of heavy drilling and excavator machines, as well as numerous cartons of explosive supplies scattered around the camp. With resolve, he made a beeline for General Liang's office building. Inside, the sergeant spotted General Liang in a meeting with his commanders and took a seat outside the meeting room, patiently awaiting his turn to speak with the general. After the Chinese commanders left the meeting room, General Liang remained, engrossed in his files. When the last commander departed, The Chinese sergeant approached and asked for permission to enter.

Sir, can I come in? the sergeant inquired. Of course, please come in, responded General Liang. I noticed you waiting outside for some time. I was briefing the commanders on the upcoming blasting and drilling operations in the Kangrinboqe region (Kailash region). I am confident that these activities will lead to the discovery of valuable metals to meet our country's energy needs and propel us toward becoming a global superpower. I need you and your team to secure and monitor all entry and exit points in the Kangrinboqe region. If you require any permission or in case of emergencies, feel free to approach me directly. Is that clear, sergeant? I understand, General Liang, said the sergeant. But before we proceed, there's an important matter I need to discuss with you. What's on your mind? inquired General Liang. General, A group of indian saint pilgrims recently arrived at Kangrinboqe Peak and set up their tents near Dirapuk Monastery, said the Sergeant. Some local pilgrims assisted with their tent installations, as well as food and other essentials. Upon learning of this development and understanding the potential implications for the area, I took the initiative to lead my battalion to their location to address the situation. My objective was to ensure that the area, which might be sensitive or regulated due to its spiritual or administrative significance, was managed appropriately. When I approached the pilgrims to vacate the area, their leader, Sage Rishya, firmly refused, asserting that the land belongs to Adi God Shiva and thus holds religious significance that supersedes any administrative or regulatory concerns. Do you think we should involve Indian authorities to assist in managing the situation to prevent potential conflicts or misunderstandings,ensuring that the resolution is handled peacefully and respectfully? No, there's no need to involve anyone from the Indian side, responded General Liang. I personally intend to visit Kangrinboqe Peak and have a conversation with Sage Rishya and his disciples. Let's hear his perspective one last time before we ask them to leave and reclaim the land.

Sage Rishya, with a deep sense of spiritual awareness, looked out over the vast and mystical landscape of the Kailash region. As he surveyed the surroundings, he saw that dark, brooding clouds had gathered, casting a veil of gloom over the area. The dense clouds appeared to shroud the entire region in a heavy, almost foreboding atmosphere. Despite the overcast skies, a miraculous moment unfolded. The first light of dawn began to break through the thick blanket of clouds. As the sun's rays pierced through a narrow gap in the cloud cover, they illuminated the towering peak of Mount Kailash with a warm, golden glow. The sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The contrast between the dark, oppressive clouds and the brilliant, golden light accentuated the mountain’s majestic presence, transforming it into a beacon of divine beauty and grace.

This breathtaking display filled Sage Rishya’s heart with an overwhelming sense of spirituality and reverence. The golden light was not merely a physical phenomenon but was interpreted as a celestial affirmation of the sacredness of the mountain and the spiritual journey he was undertaking. The sight reinforced his deep connection to the divine and the spiritual significance of the Kailash region, further deepening his sense of purpose and devotion. One of his disciples approached him.

Master, we may need rice soon. Shall I arrange for someone to procure it? asked the disciple. Son No need for that, replied Sage Rishya. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I will take care of it myself.

As Sage Rishya, standing at a respectful distance, keenly observed the approach of a group of troops moving toward their location. He then turned to his disciples, with a demeanor of calm authority and deep spiritual insight, he instructed them to engage in prayer to Lord Shiva, seeking divine intervention and guidance. The rhythmic chanting of mantras and the meditative focus of the group created an aura of tranquility and devotion. Sage Rishya’s approach was a testament to his deep spiritual commitment and his faith in the transformative power of divine grace to influence and guide the unfolding events.

General Liang and his contingent of troops arrived at the site where the Indian saints had set up their tents. The presence of the general and his well-organized forces was imposing, and it was clear that their arrival signaled a significant escalation in the situation. With a decisive command, General Liang directed his troops to locate and bring forth the leader of the saintly group, Sage Rishya, along with his disciples.

As the troops stormed into the tents, their entrance was marked by a sense of urgency and forcefulness. The serenity that had previously enveloped the saints’ camp was abruptly shattered. The saints, who had been engaged in prayer and spiritual reflection, were now being forcibly removed from their tents. The soldiers, following their orders, began to drag Sage Rishya out of his peaceful sanctuary. Once outside, Sage Rishya and his disciples were compelled to kneel in front of General Liang. This act of subjugation was both a physical and symbolic gesture, intended to assert dominance and control over the situation. The general, with a stern and authoritative demeanor, stood as the imposing figure commanding their attention and respect. The natural environment seemed to echo the gravity of the moment. The sky above the Kailash region darkened with ominous clouds, and a fierce storm began to brew. Lightning streaked across the sky, illuminating the rugged landscape with flashes of brilliance. The thunder roared with a deep, resonant force, and bone-chilling winds swept through the valley.

The combination of the general’s commanding presence and the tempestuous weather created a charged environment, heightening the sense of conflict in this critical moment. The scene was starkly contrasting between the two groups facing off amidst the harsh environment of the Kailash region. The Chinese troops, well-prepared for the severe cold, were clad in a range of specialized winter gear designed to offer comprehensive protection against the biting temperatures. Each soldier wore superior warm uniform jackets that were insulated to retain body heat, ensuring they remained comfortable and functional in the extreme cold. In stark contrast, the Indian saints presented a poignant image of vulnerability against the elements. Dressed in, sacred ashes, a traditional symbol of their spiritual devotion, they wore minimal clothing, consisting primarily of a single piece of saffron cloth. This traditional attire, while symbolically significant and deeply meaningful in their spiritual practice, offered scant protection against the harsh climate. The saffron cloth, worn as a mark of asceticism and devotion, barely covered their bodies, exposing them to the intense cold.

As the wind howled and the storm raged around them, General Liang’s gaze locked onto Sage Rishya, the revered leader of the Indian saints. With a cold, calculating demeanor, he approached the sage with deliberate and imposing strides. In his hand, General Liang twirled a revolver with a casual yet sinister air. The revolver, gleaming with a cold metallic sheen, served both as a weapon and a psychological instrument of fear. Without a hint of hesitation or empathy, General Liang reached the sage and seized him with a brutal and disdainful grip. He grasped Sage Rishya by the hair, pulling his head back in a display of sheer dominance.

Where is your God, Shiva? General Liang's voice cut through the storm’s fury and the tense silence with a sharp, commanding tone. I am an atheist, much like many others in our world. Understand that at this moment, I am the only one standing between your life and your death. No one can save you from me here on these barren lands. So, Choose your next words very carefully. Do you understand? The power of life and death rests in the hands of God Shiva, replied Sage Rishya, unwavering in his spiritual conviction, spoke with a serene yet profound authority, even in the face of imminent danger. Every occurrence in the universe is guided by his will, and we are all merely players in the grand production of life. When my time on this stage ends, I will return to the one and only. I fear God Shiva, no one else. I am not here to entertain your dismissive beliefs, uttered the Chinese General Liang. In this critical moment, your life and the lives of your followers hinge on the choice you make. Your superstitions are of no concern to me. Therefore, I will give you one final opportunity before deciding all of your fate. Will you leave now, or will you face the consequences?