Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel Emphasises Cultural Importance of Tibetan Opera at 28th Shoton Festival Opening Ceremony

Dharamshala: The 28th Shoton (Yogurt) Festival commenced on 7 May 2025 at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA). Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel as the Chief Guest, joined by officiating Sikyong Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, Justice Commissioner Dawa Phunkyi, Justice Commissioner Phagpa Tsering, Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi, Public Service Commissioner Karma Yeshi, Auditor General Tashi Topgyal, standing committee members of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile graced the festival alongside secretaries and senior officials from the Central Tibetan Administration.

In his keynote address, the Speaker lauded the decision to host the 28th Shoton Festival in Dharamshala, coinciding with the year of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, as part of the Ghoton Celebration – a grand commemoration of His Holiness’ 90th birth anniversary.

He applauded the participation of the 14 different opera troupes from various regions for their dedicated efforts in preserving Tibet’s unique opera tradition, known as Ache...