Dharamshala: The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) on Saturday formally inducted 12 students from Menchukha in Arunachal Pradesh under a special initiative aimed at preserving and promoting Himalayan cultural heritage.

The induction ceremony was held at 10:00 AM in the institute’s main hall, in the presence of dignitaries, faculty members, students, and a delegation from Menchukha, including family members of the newly admitted students.

The initiative stems from a cultural exchange visit in February 2025, when a TIPA delegation participated in Losar celebrations in Menchukha and staged traditional Tibetan performances at the invitation of the local cultural association. The visit highlighted the deep-rooted linguistic, religious, and cultural ties between the Memba community and Tibetan traditions, while also drawing attention to concerns over the gradual decline of these traditions amid generational change.

Following appeals from local leaders and community representatives, TIPA approved the admission of 12 students-six boys and six girls-after detailed deliberations during its 50th executive meeting. The selected students have been offered free education, subject to a minimum six-year commitment to training at the institute.

The ceremony was graced by the Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture, Dhondul Dorjee, as chief guest. Representatives from the Menchukha cultural association, including General Secretary Sangey Sona and Deputy Chairman Cheeden Goiba, were also in attendance.

Proceedings began with traditional ceremonial offerings, including the presentation of Khataks (ceremonial scarves) and the lighting of butter lamps before a portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, followed by formal addresses.

In his welcome remarks, the Director of TIPA underscored the significance of the initiative and urged students and their families to remain committed to the full duration of the training program. He also emphasized discipline and adherence to institutional guidelines as key to their success.

Representatives from Menchukha expressed their appreciation to TIPA for extending the opportunity and briefly outlined the process that led to the collaboration.

In his address, chief guest Secretary Dhondul Dorjee stressed the importance of safeguarding Tibetan religion, culture, and language, and highlighted the role of the Department of Religion and Culture in supporting such preservation efforts. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Tenzin Phuntsok, artistic director, followed by the presentation of ceremonial scarves and mementos to the guests and teaching staff.

Officials described the admission of Memba students as a historic, marking a significant step in its institutional history. The initiative is expected to not only support cultural preservation but also strengthen ties between Tibetan and Arunachal Pradesh communities.

An appreciation letter from Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, Hon’ble Minister for Education, Parliamentary Affairs, Rural Works, Tourism, and Public Libraries,  Government of Arunachal Pradesh, further commended the effort, describing it as a meaningful step toward fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

– Report filed by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts