-An evening of Tibetan Dances, Games and Songs-
On March 27th 2004, the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress of New York and New Jersey organized an exclusive traditional Tibetan get-together function ‘Tibet Fest.’ – an evening of Tibetan Dances, Games and Songs-.
The function started with the Chang-Shey and Chang-offering (a symbolism for auspicious begining) by Cholsum Tibetan Dance group of New York and New Jersey. Dr. Ngawang Rabgyal, representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to North America and Mr. Kelsang Phuntsok, President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Dharamsala were invited as the Chief guests of the function. Mr. Kunga Thinley, President of the RTYC NY & NJ greeted and gave the welcome speech. Mr. Jampa Yonten, Cultural Secretary of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress of New York and New Jersey briefed the function with an introductory speech and Mr. Kelsang Phuntsok, President of the Central Executive Committee of Tibetan Youth Congress, Dharamsala (India), addressed the members with a brief happenings within the arena of the Tibetan Youth Congress.
The cultural event begun with some patriotic songs from ‘Lhaksam’ Tibetan Band, comprised of Mr. Dorjee Tsering and Mrs. Lobsang Dolma. The function-goers witnessed some of the most talented Tibetan singers in the function. Namthar, Dza-Lhu, modern Tibetan Songs and some old numbers made the event as spicy as the Tibetan Pork-curry, which was fully garnished there on the dinner table.
Pak-Dren-Dur (Dough molding/kneading Competition) and Chupa-Dren-Dur (Chupa Wearing Competition) were the favorites. Tibetans of all ages showed their full enthusiasm and zeal taking part in the competition.
A group of Tibetan woman and man had eye-to-eye confrontation while Dza-Lhu (Tibetan Love Songs) flowed from their aged, but ever-young hearts.
Mr. Karma Tsering. Vice President of the RTYC NY & NJ conveyed the word of appreciation to the chief guests, distinguished guests, performers and the members present during the function.
The Cultural dance program commenced with some Khamshey and Gorsheys. All young and olds found themselves lost between the dance circle which streaches along the main stage to the door of the Kasturi Hall. Tibetan traditional khada (scarf) and Tibetan rice wine (Cho-Chang with Yelkha) were offered to the dancers. Young seeds of Tibet made their own mini circle within, while their parents gave them a cover with their huge and wild Gor-Shey corona.
“I wish it were just 9:00 p.m.” said Acha Yanchen, who reluctantly raised her hand to stop a taxi home at 1:30 a.m., when event-filled program wrapped up for culmination.
