Dharamshala May 27 – In reminiscent of the victorious king inspired by a spider who succeeds in climbing a height after numerous attempts, the Gyallu Rukhag, without a win in more than ten years, swept the annual cultural competition of the only government run centre for the preservation of Tibetan performing tradition in exile.
Gyallu Rukhag broke the deadlock today by winning three out of the four categories of the fierce competition which is usually followed by emotional breakdowns. The loud pop music played continuously by the two troupes outside their practice venue for the last one month indicates that they are very secretive about their songs and dances.The spirit during this period of competition is often compared to India-Pakistan cricket match in the institute.
The annual Summer Festival or Yarkyi of the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts began today amid much fanfare and festivity. The cultural competition between the two troupes Ngonpa and Gyallu was the highlight of the festival. The competition was attended by the Indian government’s Liason Officer in Dharamshala, dignitaries and officials from the exile Tibetan government, representatives of the non governmental organisations and other guests.
The festival coincides with the founding anniversary of the institute which turned 47. Yarki often becomes the source of learning new cultural performances for the various Tibetan schools, organisations and institutes in India, Nepal and Bhutan.
