Monks share insight into culture

The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people

Tibetan monks are performing in Cornwall on Sunday as part of a national tour to give audiences an insight into their culture.

The eight monks are from the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery founded by the first Dalai Lama in the 15th Century.

In 1972 it was re-established in South India by a group of monks who followed the current Dalai Lama into exile.

Now home to 250 monks, their mission is to preserve their unique culture and help regain independence from China.

Nobel winner

The performance will include Buddhist chanting, traditional music and dances. Dancers wear elaborate costumes and masks with each gesture holding a specific spiritual meaning.

The event at Colliford Lake Park has been organised by North Cornwall Arts.

His Holiness The Dalai Lama is revered by the Tibetan people as their spiritual leader and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his non-violent struggle for Tibet.

He celebrated his 70th birthday on 6 July.