Paris September 10 – Despite heavy downpour the 6th Himalayan Festival here at the French capital kicked off amid much fanfare and festivity. Organised by the Office of Tibet, the two day annual festival was participated by the local Tibetan community ,Tibet support groups and the local public.
As the monks of Kagyu Zong blew ceremonial pipes, representative Tashi Phuntsok, along with his colleagues paraded to place the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the throne at the centrestage. The monks of Kagyu Zong performed ritual dance of purification. Representative Tashi Phuntsok thanked everyone gathered at the festival for their support and participation.
The public got a rare blend of Himalayan tastes from over 30 stalls selling Tibetan dresses, teas, religious artefacts, food etc. The local Tibetan community was active in making the best ue of the opportunity to raise its fund by running a catering service. The Tibet Support groups also had stalls disseminating information about thier activities.
The local Tibetans say that it is the first time in six years that the festival was interrupted by rain. But the Tibetan business community is hopeful of a bright sunny wheather tomorrow. Meanwhile, a musical concert is also being organised to add some festive mood to the festival.
