Karma Lodue
Karma Lodue is a man on a mission. Ever since singing at the birthday celebration for His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2000, he’s grown dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture in stories and folk songs. Known in musical circles simply as “Karma”, he’s often found performing in McLeod Ganj under the auspices of the Tibetan Music Trust, a not-for-profit charity he founded and guides. Over momos and chai, Karma reflects on his life as a self-employed artist: “I want to influence the young and the jobless and give them ideas for what they can accomplish… The basic nature of Tibetan people is to be shy and unconfident. I hope this brings courage to the hopeless and grows interest in the world.”
Many of the songs in the repertoire are “legendary stories delivered with traditional vocals but modern lyrics”. One will find romantic ballads of longing, cheerful Losar melodies, songs that commemorate HH the Dalai Lama, and important Tibet events, and even songs that were composed by the colourful Sixth Dalai Lama, who was well-known as a romantic poet during his time and inspired many Tibetans to imitate his lyrics. These songs are performed with the accompaniment of another musician on the damnyen (Tibetan guitar) and Karma on the nga (drum).
He’s been around long enough to see the change in Dharamsala, which in his opinion still has room to evolve. “We need a more friendly atmosphere from those that live here. We can still gain more love and less jealousy to become a more transparent society… Strive to put others before self. We are all interdependent. This is how the world works together. You are included.” Karma provides a unique opportunity for anyone wishing to enjoy Tibetan arts and culture.
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