Winter chill brings cheer for Tibetans

This year the weather conditions seem to be favourable for the Tibetans who have been visiting here for the last 20 years. More than 13 Tibetans, residing in Mysore, who have come here for their winter sojourn in the last week of October to sell woolen garments are in a cheerful mood.

"This year the business is better than the last year. While last year the business has not picked up till mid week of December, this year we have already exhausted the stock," said Tundu Tibetan.

"We have faxed message to supply more stock particularly on jackets and sweaters through transport," Tundu added. The cold is severing this year and this has increased our sale, he added.

For three months from November to January, a temporary Tibetan market comes up in front of Bhadrak Club.

"As per an agreement with Bhadrak Club we have to pay Rs 150 towards make shift arrangement for our seasonal business. However the Club management has not given us sufficient place for our business like the previous years," said Urgyen Liyanga, another Tibetan.

"Bhadrak is my source of livelihood. We are grateful to India as this country provided me shelterafter China-Tibet war in 1959 and obliged to the people here as we earn our livelihood here," said Tundu.

Meanwhile, customers particularly from rural area have thronged the Tibetan market. The demand for shawl, jacket and blanket is more.

"We prefer to purchase from the Tibetans because they sale qualitative winter product in genuine price," said Padmnava Sahu of Chandbali.