Dharamsala, October 22 – People of Moscow had a rare opportunity to witness the unique cultural heritage of Tibet without having to travel to the ‘forbidden kingdom’. The first ever Tibet International Festival of art, culture & philosophy began in Moscow on the 14 October at the Zurab Tseritelli Gallery. Moscow’s Tibet House President Ms.Vreblovsakaya Elena, a famous sculptor, Mr. Zurab Tseritelli, owner of the gallery and the Director of Moscow Oriental Museum, Representative Tashi la and Telo Rinpoche spoke at the inaugural function. They talked about the importance of theTibetan culture and Buddhist philosophy in today’s world.
Monks from Gyumed Tantric University performed prayers of auspicious beginning. It was followed by traditional nomadic songs of Tibet by Aku Pema group. More than seven hundred guests attended the opening ceremony.
Despite expressions of displeasure over the festival from the Chinese Embassy and the Russian Foreign Ministry, the festival still goes on well. Hundreds of Russians living in Moscow and from other Russian cities enthusiastically visit the Gallery to watch chantings and mandala construction by Gyumed monks, two metre high butter sculptures, holy Buddhist relics of Lama Sopa Rinpoche centre and photo exhibition of Richard Gere. People attend series of lectures on Buddhist philosophy and culture being given by Prof.Robert Thurman and Kushok Tsering Dhondup from Tibet Culture Centre, Moscow. People also receive medical and astrological consultation from a Tibetan doctor and an astrologer.
The public eagerly looks forward to the arrival of Hollywood actor Richard Gere to the festival for the presentation of his photos. Gangjong Doegar from Kalimpong and Loten Namling, a Tibetan singer from Switzerland will also take part in the festival from 26 October.
The tickets for a gala concert to be held at the Moscow International Music House on October 31 are already sold out.
A part of the expositions at the Festival may be taken to Republic of Kalmykia, a Buddhist dominated region of Russia, for exhibition.
With inputs from OoT, Moscow
