Finding Light in Dark Times: The Odiyana Project an orphanage and project in the Himalayas, that's restoring hope
The Odiyana Project - A Tibetan Orphanage in India.
This podcast episode features an interview with Tulka and Dorjee about the Odiyana Project, a Tibetan orphanage, school, and clinic located in Arunachal Pradesh, India, in the foothills of the Himalayas. The project represents a beacon of hope, compassion, and healing in challenging times.
Key Project Details
Location & Background
- Location: Arunachal Pradesh, India (foothills of the Himalayas)
- Timeline: Initiated 4-5 years ago by Tulka
- Land: 3-acre site gifted by the local community
- Project Components: Orphanage, school, clinic, and temple
Mission & Purpose
The Odiyana Project serves the most disadvantaged children in the Himalayan region by providing:
- Shelter and housing for underprivileged children
- Comprehensive education with emphasis on compassion
- Healthcare services through periodic clinic operations
- Buddhist principles teaching compassion and wisdom
What Makes This Project Unique
Educational Philosophy
- Primary Focus: Teaching compassion as the foundation for becoming good human beings
- Holistic Approach: Inside-out development (inner compassion + outer education)
- Inclusive: Accepts children regardless of religious background
- Future Vision: Equipping children to help others when they grow up
Community Integration
- Local Support: Enthusiastic participation from local population
- Government Backing: Local officials contribute to the project
- Infrastructure Support: Government funded retention wall for flood protection and road paving
- Volunteer Network: Business people and officials actively contribute
Current Needs & Opportunities
Financial Requirements
- Target Goal: Approximately $200,000 to complete the entire project
- Funding Sources: Monthly donations from general public and US contributors
- Local Contributions: Ongoing support from Indian community
Volunteer Opportunities
The project welcomes volunteers who can contribute:
- Teaching expertise (school teachers particularly needed)
- Medical background for healthcare services
- Construction assistance
- Cultural exchange programs
Accommodations for Volunteers
- Room and board provided at project site
- Shelter facilities available
- Shower and housing amenities
- Food provided to volunteers
Living Conditions Context
Local Community Challenges
- Families living in tiny bamboo houses
- Limited access to quality education
- Remote location near natural borders
- Simple lifestyle with happy people but limited resources
- Lack of access to Tibetan medicine and healthcare
Contrast with Western Life
The podcast highlights the stark difference between children in Northeast India (whole families in small bamboo structures with minimal possessions) versus children in the United States (individual bedrooms, closets, multiple pairs of shoes).
How to Get Involved
Contact Information
- Website: odiyanainstitute.org
- Organization: Tibetan Aid Foundation.org
- Direct Contact: Through hosts Jill and Fiona, or Tibetan Aid Foundation
Ways to Participate
- Financial donations (monthly or one-time)
- Volunteer teaching (2-3 people have already volunteered successfully)
- Medical volunteer work for clinic operations
- Construction assistance
- Student exchange programs (bringing classes from other schools)
Key Themes & Messages
Hope in Dark Times
The project serves as a source of light and hope during challenging global periods, demonstrating how focusing on compassion and service to others can provide meaning and peace.
Buddhist Philosophy in Action
The integration of Buddhist principles of compassion and wisdom with practical education and healthcare demonstrates how spiritual values can address real-world needs.
Community Collaboration
The project showcases successful collaboration between:
- International donors (particularly from the US)
- Local Indian communities
- Government officials
- Religious and secular participants
Sustainable Impact
Rather than temporary aid, the project focuses on long-term development by:
- Educating children to become compassionate leaders
- Building permanent infrastructure
- Creating ongoing healthcare services
- Fostering community ownership and participation
Notable Quotes & Insights
"The first thing we teach them is compassion... to grow up as good human beings - that's the most fundamental emphasis."
"Those children compared to our children here in the United States... whole families live under tiny bamboo houses with nothing available to them."
"Helping others is the key to bringing peace to the world basically."
Project Timeline & Progress
Past Achievements (5 years)
- Started from empty 3-acre land
- Built shelter and residential facilities
- Established ongoing school operations
- Conducted periodic medical clinics
- Gained local government and community support
Current Status
- School operating under construction
- Ongoing building and development
- Regular volunteer and donation intake
- Active community participation
Future Vision
- Complete construction with $200,000 funding goal
- Expand educational and healthcare services
- Graduate compassionate, well-educated children
- Serve as model for similar projects