With the powerful message “Say No to Divorce,” “AchoTashi”, an anti-divorce campaigner on TikTok, has been on a mission to raise awareness about the far-reaching effects of divorce. After a three-week nationwide tour, he concluded his journey in Gasa on Friday. Driven by his personal experiences and a deep-seated desire to make a difference, Tashi used both TikTok and face-to-face interactions to shine a light on the impact of divorce, particularly on children.
Tashi Dendup, a 40-year-old from Wangdue Phodrang, is married to Tshering Pelden and the father of four children. His story is one of redemption and change. A few years ago, Tashi was struggling with substance abuse, even facing multiple arrests. But he made a life-altering decision to turn things around for the sake of his family.
“Last year, after his relapse, he was detained in prison due to alcohol. This time, fearing that a divorce might harm the family, he opened up to me. He said he might relapse again, so he wanted to set an example for men who feel trapped. That’s when the idea for the ‘Say No to Divorce’ journey began on TikTok,” said Tshering Pelden, Tashi Dendup’s wife.
Tashi’s decision to embark on a countrywide tour was a proactive step to prevent relapse. Supported by his wife, he began his journey in early February, starting from Paro to Haa, to share his message and raise awareness about the devastating impact of divorce on children and families.
“After getting married and having children, life brings many challenges. Despite the difficulties, I wanted to advocate for alternatives to divorce. Family discussions, parental involvement, and counselling are crucial for resolving issues,” said Tashi.
The ‘Say No to Divorce’ campaign was inspired by Tshering Pelden’s own TikTok show, “Love, Relationship and Family”. Tshering’s platform seeks to educate women on maintaining healthy relationships, born out of their own difficult experiences.
“I started the show ‘Love, Relationship and Family’ two years ago on TikTok. As everyone has a story, I have been through tough times too. As a student, I was a rape victim. I have also been through the challenges of being a single mother because of divorce,” said Tashi’s wife.
As Tashi made his way across the country, he was met with support from people from all walks of life. Whether through a kind word or an encouraging gesture, they rallied behind his cause.
“Divorce, from a religious perspective, is an act that diminishes integrity and loyalty, often seen as sinful. It’s crucial to consider the impact on children, as they are the ones who may go astray. A husband must remain loyal to his wife, and vice versa,” said Khenpo Dorji Tshering, Lam Neten, Gasa.
“I spent 18 years with my wife and I appeal to everyone, people in all the communities, in all the countries to never divorce. The union of two isn’t just for one, two, or five years. According to our mythology, it’s a bond that lasts for seven lifetimes,” said Baljit Singh, a teacher in Gasa.
Tashi’s journey has not only been one of personal growth but also a call to action for all. As he continues to inspire others with his story, it reminds everyone that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, love, loyalty, and understanding can light the way forward.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Kipchu
