Miss Tibet Pageant in June in Himachal

Dharamsala, March 31 (IANS) The Miss Tibet Pageant 2009 will be held in this Himachal Pradesh town, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile, from June 5 to 7.

Since its inception in 2002, the pageant has been held anually in October. However, it is being held earlier this time since many girls avoided participating in the event due to the cold, said the event's director-producer Lobsang Wangyal.

According to him, most Tibetans migrate to the plains in the winter months for businesses and are usually back in March-April so holding the beauty contest in the summer will also give them a chance to attend the event.

'This year's contest coincides with the 50th anniversary of Tibetans going into exile. Through this year's impressive show we will show to the world that Tibetans are alive and kicking,' said Wangyal.

The competition will consist of seven rounds. Along with the Miss Tibet crown, the winner will get a cash prize of Rs.100,000. The first runner-up will get Rs.50,000 and the second runner-up Rs.25,000.

The participants will arrive here May 28. They will undergo a week's training in yoga, stage craft and dance alongwith orientation in Tibetan history, culture and current affairs.

The finale will be held at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) June 7.