RAJPUR: The Tibetan women’s handicraft centre based in Rajpur, near Dehradun in Uttarakhand, celebrated its golden jubilee on 8 March. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the center since its inception in 1965. The golden jubilee gala celebration of the center was graced by Sakya Trizin Rinpoche and Ms. Dolma Gyari, Kalon for the Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration.

Ms. Tsering Dolma, the Manager of the center welcomed the gathering and introduced the aims and objectives of establishing the center in the year 1965. Its sole aim was to make Tibetan women self sustained; empowering them with relevant skills in handicraft manufacturing and ensure the preservation and promotion of Tibetan culture and craft.

Kalon Dolma Gyari, in her address at the occasion, highlighted the hard work of the elder generation of Tibetans in establishing the center. “Looking back 50 years; it is time to pay tribute to the elder generations and reflect upon their legacy,” she said, emphasising the need to maintain unity in the community. The day also marks the International Women’s Day; it is a day of significance. Since 1966, the Manager of the center is appointed by CTA, said Kalon.

The Chief Guest, His Eminence Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, spoke about the importance of imbibing His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teachings on moral principles, love and compassion and to be a good Tibetan with values. His Eminence also stressed on maintaining cordial relationship with the local Indians.

Later Mr. Gendun Rinchen, the Chairman of the board of directors, read out the message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 50th anniversary.

Students of Rajpur THF School presented a cultural performance. The Chief Guest also released a new incense which is manufactured at the center and also felicitated staff who contributed  50 years of their lives to the center.

The program was attended by the settlement officer, representatives from various NGOs and monasteries. Also present were former Kalons, Tibetan Parliamentarians and hundreds of local Tibetans.

The women’s handicraft center presently has 76 staff with 86 families. A total of 400 people are supported by the center.

Before arriving at Rajpur on 7 March, Kalon Dolma Gyari attended the wedding reception of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri. Virbhadra Singh’s daughter at Delhi. She was invited by the hosts on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration to foster better relations between the Tibetan people and the state government.

Mr Tsewang Gyalpo Arya, Secretary, Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi, accompanied Kalon Dolma Gyari.

Report filed by : Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration