DHARAMSHALA: The Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association, which is comprised of both Tibetan and Indian residents of Dharamshala, held its 21st Himalayan Festival at Hotel Bhagsu, Mcleod Ganj from 10- 11 December.
The festival, which is an annual event, was dedicated to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the conferment of Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.
Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay inaugurated the two-day festival on 10 December. In his remarks, he spoke about the importance of maintaining cordial relations and helping each other in preserving the rich traditions and culture. “Lets live together as one family, helping each other in our times of need and forging a closer and stronger bond as we move forward,” Sikyong said, as the cheering crowd of Indians, Tibetans and local Nepali residents applauded in agreement.
Sikyong lauded the joint efforts of the two communities to make this festival a success for the last so many years and added that the affinity that the two communities have for each other with the blessings of His Holiness, is what makes Dharamshala a harmonious place attractive to both domestic and international tourists.
Sikyong also spoke about the Central Tibetan Administration’s efforts to boost tourism in Dharamshala, which will contribute towards local economy as well as help raise awareness about the Tibetan movement.
The chief guest at the concluding ceremony of the festival was Shri Sudhir Sharma, Housing, Urban Development and Town & Country Planning minister in the Government of Himachal Pradesh.
The two-day festival featured cultural performances of Nepali, Tibetan and local Gaddi folk songs and dances. The festival attracted at least a few thousand spectators, which also include foreign and domestic tourists.
