Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

China keeps a wary eye on yoghurt drinkers

Julian Coman
Thursday 04 August 2005 19:00 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Scores of Chinese troops were on hand to keep watch as Tibetans celebrated the annual Shoton, or Yoghurt, festival.

Murmuring Buddhist scripture and spinning hand-held prayer wheels, tens of thousands of people crowded the hills around the Drepung monastery, Tibet's largest, yesterday for the annual unveiling of a 35m by 30m silk embroidered image of the Buddha.

The gathering, which has its origins in the 17th century and comes in the sixth month of the Tibetan year, is one of the most important festivals in the Buddhist calendar.

During the celebrations, opera troupes performfor tourists and pilgrims. The police presence reflects China's mistrust of the monasteries, believing some to be supporters of Tibetan independence.

Before the festival Buddhists go to the mountains to prepare themselves. On the way back they meet up with relatives, drink yoghurt and perform traditional dances.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in