Tibet With My Eyes Closed is a poignant collection of short stories that offers a powerful glimpse into the lives of Tibetan refugees living in exile, especially in India. Through twelve deeply humane and sharply crafted stories, Madhu Gurung explores themes of identity, resilience, displacement, and cultural memory. Each narrative delves into personal loss and collective endurance, echoing the struggles of those who fled Tibet following the Chinese invasion and the continuing emotional impact of exile.

The stories—told through the voices of monks, soldiers, children, and ordinary people—unfold against a backdrop of longing for a lost homeland. Gurung’s prose is simple yet lyrical, portraying with quiet intensity the enduring pain and dignity of displaced people.

Why read this book:

• Illuminates the Tibetan refugee experience with empathy and authenticity.

• Offers a rare literary lens into the political and emotional aftermath of exile.

• Combines rich storytelling with historical context, making it both moving and educational.

• Perfect for readers interested in South Asian literature, diaspora stories, and human rights issues.

About the Author

Madhu Gurung is an Indian author and journalist based in Dehradun. Her work often centers on the lives of marginalized communities, particularly those of the Indian-Nepali and Tibetan diaspora. A storyteller deeply invested in oral histories, she blends fiction with meticulous research to preserve the voices and experiences of people often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Tibet With My Eyes Closed is her debut collection of short stories and has been widely praised for its sensitivity, clarity, and powerful storytelling.