Dharamshala: The Department of Religion and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration, commenced its 3rd Tibetan Arts and Crafts Exposition at the courtyard of Thekchen Choeling Temple in Dharamshala earlier today. The two-day event brings together Tibetan artists, artisans, and cultural organisations to showcase the diversity of Tibetan arts, crafts, and cultural heritage.

The exposition was inaugurated by Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile as the chief guest. She was accompanied by Secretary Dhondul Dorjee of the Department of Religion and Culture.

During her remarks to the media, Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang highlighted the critical situation facing Tibetan children in Tibet, stating that many children between the ages of 4 and 18 are enrolled in colonial-style boarding schools where the use and practice of Tibetan language, culture, and religion are increasingly restricted. She underscored the importance of organising events such as the Tibetan Arts and Crafts Exposition in exile to preserve and promote Tibetan identity.

She further expressed hope that future editions of the exposition could be held in major cities and other locations to reach a wider audience. She noted that such events not only help showcase Tibet’s rich cultural heritage and traditions but also provide an important platform to raise awareness about the current critical situation inside Tibet.

The exposition features exhibitions and sales by 24 individuals and organisations, offering a wide range of traditional and contemporary Tibetan art forms. The stalls display Thangka paintings, Tibetan calligraphy, stone crafts, books, Buddhist butter sculptures, contemporary Tibetan artworks, Norling handmade products, and other cultural items.

The primary objective of the event is to promote Tibetan arts and crafts among the general public while providing a platform for artists and artisans to showcase their work. The exposition also highlights Tibet’s rich cultural heritage and seeks to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Tibetan art and culture among a broader audience.

The two-day 3rd Tibetan Arts and Crafts Exposition, organised by the Department of Religion and Culture, with funding support from USA State Department.