Source: Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Tashi Sholpa

Tashi Sholpa (བཀྲ་ཤིས་ཞོལ་པ་), meaning “lucky dance,” is the oldest form of Tibetan opera, originating in a vision of the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645. It was first performed at his enthronement ceremony by the Shol Troupe at Drepung Monastery. All performers wear the white-bearded mask of Saint Thangtong Gyalpo, the legendary founder of Tibetan opera (Lhamo), who reputedly lived 125 years — symbolising longevity and good fortune. As an opening act of the ancient white-mask school, it is performed at major occasions — the Dalai Lama’s homecoming, monastery inaugurations, and significant cultural gatherings — believed to bring good luck and auspicious blessings.