By Tenzin Dickyi
New Delhi
The commemoration of 17th anniversary of the conferment of 1989 Nobel Peace prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama was celebrated today here in New Delhi at Tibetan Day School, Majnu-Ka-Tila by the exile Tibetans and their friends. The official function began at 10 AM with a great festive mood. Tibetan Butter tea and Daysee traditional sweetened Rice with butter and dry fruits) acted as an appetizer for the public as the function began.
The official function started with Tibetan and Indian National Anthems followed by various speeches by the dignitaries. Tibetan Welfare Officer of Samyeling Tibetan Colony, Mr. Lhakpa Tsering gave the introductory speech outlining the importance of the day for the Tibetan people in Exile. He also read out the statement from Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration.
In his brief speech, Mr. Lhakpa Tsering said, “This year we have dual reason to celebrate 10th December. Besides the 17th anniversary of conferment of Nobel Peace Prize, today His Holiness will be receiving ‘White Lotus order’ the highest award in Russia’s republic of Kalmykia , “for his outstanding merits and considerable contribution to the spiritual revival and prosperity of the republic”.
Shri Pralad Singh Saini, MLA Delhi was the chief guest for the function. Other distinguished guests were Mr. Penpa Tsering and Miss.Youdon Aukatsang the members of the exile Tibetan Parliament, Assembly of the Tibetan People’s Deputies and many other senior official members.
“I will be always there for the Tibetans whenever the need arises and I also pledge to commit myself to help the Tibetan refugees” said Shri Pralad Singh Saini, MLA showing his deep concern for the Tibetans.
Mr. Penpa Tsering also addressed the gathering and expressed his gratitude for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s overpowering service to his people and opening up the wide awareness of importance of peace and harmony at this stage in the world. He further explained about the discussions and talks that have been going on regarding the demolition of Manju-Ka-Tila and that they are putting in their best effort to save the colony.
Taking this day as an opportunity, Tenzin Gyalpo popularly known as Micheal released his new Music album titled ‘A True Love’ and also performed few songs for the audiences. TIBETODAY, a monthly English language magazine was also launched giving away one copy of their first edition to all the guests.
One of the attraction for the day was the performance by JJI- The Exile Brothers who entertained the audience with their vibrant and pulsating numbers.
The function concluded with cultural songs and dance performances by the children of Tibetan Day School and the ladies from Tibetan Women Association which the audiences thoroughly enjoyed. The lunch was served for everyone present there after the function.
