Gajapati, Odisha: The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) Troupe delivered a vibrant cultural performance at Thubten Mendrol Ling Monastery on Friday evening, 20 March 2026, drawing an audience of more than 500 people, including prominent spiritual leaders, monks, and local devotees.

The event was held in the presence of esteemed figures such as Kyabje Terchen Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche and Kyabje Jigme Rinpoche, alongside members of the Ripa Ladrang and the monastery’s senior clergy. The gathering reflected strong community participation and support for Tibetan cultural preservation.

During the programme, performers presented a key segment from the epic of King Gesar of Ling, titled “Mi Je Sengchen” as part of the sacred dance tradition known as Ling Dro Dechen Rolmo. The troupe also showcased traditional Tibetan songs, highlighting the richness of ancient performing arts.

Following the performance, the chief guests expressed deep appreciation, commending the troupe’s efforts to preserve and promote Tibetan heritage. The monastery hosted a ceremonial dinner and offered tokens of respect to mark the occasion, which coincided with the 29th Shoton (Yogurt Festival) celebrations.

Ling Dro Dechen Rolmo is a spiritually significant dance form rooted in Tibetan Buddhist teachings, symbolising harmony, peace, and auspiciousness. Historically, the tradition spread widely across Tibet but faced decline in exile due to limited transmission.

The tradition of performing Ling Dro was first introduced in late 1984, when troupe performer Tashi Dhondup was sent to Odisha to receive proper training in Ling Dro Dechen Rolmo from the dance master Norsang.

Subsequently, on 6 July 1985, marking the birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Opera Troupe presented a full Ling Dro performance at Gangchen Kyishong. This event marked the beginning of the tradition of performing Ling Dro in TIPA.

However, over time, as senior performers retired and newer members took their place, no dedicated lineage holders emerged to sustain the tradition, leading to a gradual decline in its continuity. Renewed efforts to revive the art began in late 2023 through collaboration with senior masters in India. In early 2024, members of the Tibetan Opera Troupe underwent intensive training in Odisha, studying the dance’s history, music, and performance techniques under experienced lineage holders.

This recent performance marks a significant milestone in the successful revival of Ling Dro Dechen Rolmo. Organisers expressed gratitude to the guiding spiritual leaders and institutions whose support made the restoration possible, emphasising the importance of preserving such traditions for future generations. The Ling Dro costumes were made with financial assistance by the U.S. Govt. through Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibet Fund.

– Report filed by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts