In India's northern Dharamsala Tibetan refugees began a march to the Tibetan border today. This is to mark National Uprising Day, a day when the Chinese communist regime invaded their homeland. Here's the story.

STORY:

Organizers say this year's protests will be non-violent. Several thousand people, including Tibetans, Indians and Westerners, accompanied the marchers as they set off.

The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, addressed the Tibetans-in-exile before the start of the march. A prayer meeting was also held. But, the marchers say they have not sought approval from the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama told the marchers to spread the message of love and peace. He says they should continue to fight for their rights, but in a peaceful manner.

Thousands of Tibetans took to the streets of Lhasa in 1959 to protest the Chinese regime's invasion and occupation of their country. One week later the Dalai Lama was forced to flee to India. In the months following his escape, millions of Tibetans were killed as Chinese communist troops crushed the uprising.

India is now home to the largest number of exiled Tibetans spread across the world who are fighting to regain their homeland.