Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, May 21: Tashi Dhondup, a much loved Tibetan actor who known for his comedy across Tibet for four decades, died on Monday, May 19, 2025, following an illness in Tibet. He was 71 years old. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Dhondup became an icon through his portrayal of characters, notably Rabse Lhakpa, known as ‘Lhakpa the Drunk’ in comedy sketches that became New Year’s traditions. His performances in dramas such as “The Panchen Lama’s Journey to the East” and “Wishing You Peace Year After Year” showcased his versatility as a performer.
Born in 1954 on the outskirts of Lhasa, Dhondup’s path to stardom began from circumstances. After losing his mother at a young age and caring for his father, Dhondup was discovered by talent scouts from the ‘Tibet Autonomous Region Drama Troupe’ during a countryside recruitment drive in 1977. His ability to sing and dance earned him a spot in the troupe, marking the beginning of a journey.
Dhondup later studied at the Shanghai Theatre Academy, where he developed the skills that would make him one of Tibet’s entertainers. His partnership with actors Runwang and Nyima formed what became known as the “Iron Triangle” of Tibetan comedy. Their New Year sketches became phenomena, with audiences anticipating their performances.
Speaking with Phayul, Lhakpa Tsering, founder of Tibet Theatre based in Dharamshala, said, “I consider Tashi Dhondup a role model and a key source of inspiration since my childhood for entering this field. I used to watch and imitate him to learn the craft when I was young. His impact in Tibet is immense, his work has inspired and been loved by many aspiring artists who wish to pursue acting. He was an exceptional figure for the younger generation to look up to in the realm of art and theatre in Tibet.”
The creation of his character, Lhakpa the Drunk, demonstrated Dhondup’s commitment to storytelling. In an interview with Kham TV, he revealed his approach to character development: “I went to many bars. I would always buy Chang (Tibetan rice wine) for one yuan, just as the person sitting opposite me did, and then we would toast to each other. It allowed me to observe how this person who had just come in changed after drinking… When I returned home, I would take notes.”
In 1997, Dhondup made history by becoming the first Tibetan actor to receive the Plum Award at the China Theatre Festival for his performance in “The Panchen Lama’s Journey to the East”. This achievement opened doors for generations of Tibetan performers and brought recognition to Tibetan arts.
Even in retirement, Dhondup remained dedicated to his craft and his audience. “Sometimes I do think to myself, Well, now I am already retired; I should just enjoy my next New Year,” he reflected in an interview. “But when it comes closer, everything changes; I am concerned about my audiences because they are expecting me. This performance is my destiny. So I have to persist. I want to keep creating and passing on happiness and joy.”
