6. Conclusion

The above facts cleary demonstrate how Zhangzhung and Tibet evolved since ancient time, and how Tibetan religion and culture grew and blossomed from the association. Zhangzhung was one of the early twelve regions around Tibet during Nyatri Tsanpo's time, which ultimately was absorbed into Tibet just as other regions like Kongpo and Nyangpo.^[1] These other regions might also have contributed equally to the evolution of Tibetan civilizations, but Zhangzhung's contribution was rich and lasting. Srongtsan Gampo's Chinese and Nepalese queens [Balsa and Gyalsa] were well known, but not much is said about his queens from Zhangzhung and Mi-nyag, Li thig sman and Ru yong bza'. Princess Lithig sMan too brought with her a statue of Tonpa Shenrab and Thimbu Temple was built for the same. Although the Bonpo claims that Tonpa Shenrab was born in Olmolungring of Tagzig and Bon religion came from there, many facts show that Tonpa Shenrab was born in Zhangzhung and Bon religion originated in this region and spread to the neighboring regions including Tibet. sKu bla ge khod, the central deity worshiped by the people of Zhangzhang was said to have his residence in Mount Tise^[2].

Bon text Srid pa brgyud kyi kha byang notes that Ngari region of Tibet was the center of the earth and source of the four great rivers, and Lord of this land was Tonpa Shenrab^[3]. If Yarlung was the cradle of Tibetan civilization, Zhangzhung was the cradle of all Himalayan regions most prominently of Tibet. Names of the Tibetan Kings were also associated with Zhangzhung language because the sacred and divine authority the kings were based on Bon religion. Khri of gNya Khri btsanpo, which many take as 'throne' is in fact, a Zhangzhung word meaning "Mind, life or longevity"^[4]. Geshe Chokhor Nyima Woser has more on the association of Tibetan kings' name and Zhangzhung language [Bon sgo xvi]^[5]. According to Garzhaba Tsering Dorjee, in the northern belt of Himalayan ranges, there are many communities where Zhangzhung language is used even to this day. In Nepal, Tamang and Thakali people are still using this language. During his research, he found places like Kinaur, Kullu, Malana in H.P. and Niti and Kyonam in U.P. where Zhangzhung language is still spoken^[6]. Gilgit region inhabitated by people of Burusha was known as Bru sha [Drusha] in Tibetan, Brushaski [now extinct] is said to be one of the five scripts used in Zhangzhung language^[7]. If we want to have a proper glimpse of Tibetan civilization beyond the time of Nyatri Tsanpo and Srongtsan Gampo, we need to explore beyond the time of Bya ru can King of Zhangzhung and explore the facts and myth encircling Tonpa Shenrab, the founder of Yungdrung Bon religion of Tibet. If we are to demonstratet and present Tibet as an ancient rich Himalayan civilization, it is indispensable to bring Zhangzhung and Bon religion into the context. Therefore, Zhangzhung civilization needs to be studied and given due importance if we are to understand and appreciate the ancient myth, religion and history of Tibet.