Bhandara, Maharashtra: The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) has successfully concluded its cultural tour at Bhandara Norgyeling Tibetan Settlement, marking the final and memorable leg of its outreach across central Tibetan settlements in India.
Following the successful completion of programmes at Mainpat Phendeling Tibetan Settlement, a 42-member TIPA delegation led by Director Dhondup Tsering arrived at Norgyeling on 2 April 2026. The delegation included the Artistic Director, teachers, staff, and talented artists.
The central aim of this tour was to commemorate the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and to celebrate the Year of Compassion. The visit also served as a heartfelt tribute to the elder generation whose resilience and sacrifices laid the foundation of these settlements under challenging circumstances. Furthermore, the initiative sought to inspire awareness among the younger generation on the vital importance of preserving and promoting traditional Tibetan performing arts, especially at a time when cultural heritage in exile faces growing challenges.
On the evening of 3 April 2026, at around 7:00 PM, TIPA artists staged a vibrant cultural programme at the Sambhota School ground in Norgyeling Settlement. The performance showcased rich and unique Tibetan traditional arts, followed by two compelling theatrical productions titled “The Root of All Sentient Beings’ Happiness is Compassion” and “The Refugee’s Mind.” The event drew an audience of approximately 400, including local dignitaries and members of the public.
The following evening, 4 April 2026, the same venue hosted a grand presentation of the traditional Tibetan opera “Khewo Pema Woebar.” The event was graced by Chief Guest Venerable Geshe Lharampa Lekshe Tshering and Guest of Honour Smt. Jyoti Kamble, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Arjuni Morgaon, who attended despite her demanding schedule in a gesture of support for Tibetan culture. The performance was witnessed by around 300 attendees, including settlement leaders and community members.
During the programme, the Director of TIPA delivered a welcome address, highlighting the evolution and preservation of Tibetan opera both in Tibet and in exile. Despite the high temperature, the artists performed with remarkable dedication and passion. The audience remained fully engaged throughout and responded with enthusiastic applause and deep appreciation.
The tour concluded on a highly successful note, with all TIPA teachers, staff, and artists demonstrating unwavering commitment in fulfilling its objectives. The settlement office, community leaders, local opera associations, youth and women’s associations, and ex-servicemen’s groups extended invaluable support. The overwhelming public response, marked by large attendance and generous contributions, reflected a profound respect for Tibetan cultural heritage and a shared commitment to its preservation.
– Report filed by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
