Ngawang Rigdrol, a Tibetan nun, was arrested in 1992 for participating in a peaceful protest and was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment. During her detention, she was subjected to severe torture, which resulted in near blindness and permanent damage to one of her arms.

Despite the harsh prison conditions and the personal tragedy of losing her mother while she was incarcerated, Ngawang Rigdrol remained unwavering in her commitment to the Tibetan cause. She continued to express her dedication to Tibetan freedom, stating that she was prepared to sacrifice her life for her country and for His Holiness the Dalai Lama.