Yarkyi (TIPA Anniversary)

On 11 August, 1959, after four months into exile, a group of fresh refugee in Kalimpong stepped forward to take initiative in reviving and promoting Tibetan theatrical art. Back in Tibet, Chinese was imposing forceful cultural assimilation upon Tibetan, while in India under the unusual heat; the refugees were struggling with their life.

In 1960, when the Tibetan Government in exile was relocated to Dharamsala from Mussorie, this small theatrical group was also invited to become an official performing centre, under the auspices of His Holiness the 14th Dalia Lama.

Since then, members of Tibetan Institute of Performing Art have been commemorating the day as founding anniversary. A couple of months before the anniversary, the artistes are divided into two house, Gyalu and Ngonpa, title inspired by characters from Tibetan Opera. The groups are required to research songs and dances, which they will perform on the first day of the anniversary.

On the first day, all the members gather at "Temple of Performing art" to offer special prayer invoking blessing for all sentient beings. In the afternoon, distinguished members from Tibetan community in exile are invited as guest to witness the much awaited "Dance and Music Competition." The presentations are adjudged on basis of stage presentation, melody, costume, authenticity and accompaniment music. The results are declared at the end of the competition.

In the evening, as a consolatory gesture the staffs, trainees including all the non-artiste members perform humorous play, dance and music to cheer and entertain the artiste, who had worked hard for month.

On the subsequent days, various games like basketball, tug of war, football are organised among different groups, individuals so as to foster better relationship among all members.