Bir: The Bir Tibetan Settlement successfully organised the Tibet Festival and Photo Exhibition from 15 May to 17 May 2026 in celebration of the 90th Birthday of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama and in observance of the Year of Compassion.

The inaugural ceremony was held on 15 May and the Honourable Chief Guest, Shri Kishori Lal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary and MLA of Baijnath, along with other distinguished guests, was warmly received at the venue. The Chief Guest officially inaugurated the Tibet Festival and Photo Exhibition. Following the inauguration, the chief guest and dignitaries visited the exhibition stalls and viewed the photo displays depicting the life, teachings, achievements, and global contributions of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama.

The formal stage programme commenced at 10:30 AM with the lighting of the ceremonial butter lamp and offering of traditional scarves before the portrait of His Holiness. The Tibetan and Indian National Anthems were sung with great respect and pride. Welcome addresses and speeches were delivered by the Tibetan Settlement Officer karma Namgyal and the Chairman of the Bir Boetsog Local Tibetan Assembly Tsewang Rabgyal. Souvenirs and books authored by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama (Voice for the Voiceless) were presented to the Chief Guest and other dignitaries as tokens of gratitude and remembrance.

The programme also featured a series of vibrant cultural song and dance performances presented by Bir and Chauntra Sambhota school students, TCV Suja school Students, and Bir Boetsog traditional dance group, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Tibet.

Shri Kishori Lal delivered an inspiring keynote address highlighting the importance of compassion, peace, and preservation of Tibetan culture and identity. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by the President of the BRDL Committee Tenzin Gyaltsen.

Throughout the three-day festival, the exhibition stalls remained open for visitors. The stalls displayed traditional Tibetan cuisine, Tibetan traditional attire, elements of Tibetan religious heritage, Mentsekhang, books authored by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and awards and recognition to His Holiness. The photo exhibition attracted many visitors and served as an educational and cultural platform for promoting awareness about Tibetan history, culture, and values of compassion and non-violence.

On the final day, 17 May, a special cultural event was organised in which a series of cultural dance performances and settlers of the Bir Boetsog Tibetan Settlement participated in a traditional Tibetan costume ramp walk. Men, women, and youth proudly showcased a variety of traditional Tibetan dresses representing different regions and cultural styles of Tibet. The ramp walk became one of the highlights of the festival and was highly appreciated by the audience for its elegance, cultural significance, and vibrant presentation of Tibetan identity and heritage.

The Tibet Festival and Photo Exhibition concluded successfully with active community participation and positive public response. The event not only celebrated the remarkable life and legacy of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama but also strengthened cultural unity, promoted compassion, and enhanced awareness of Tibetan traditions among the wider public.

– Report filed by Bir Boetsog Tibetan Settlement