Norbulingka Institute - Sidhpur
The Losel doll museum set up inside the Norbulingka Institute is known for its exhibition of life-size dolls illustrating Tibetan people's tradition and daily life. It also features various religious events and festivals from different regions of Tibet through dolls. Started in 1983, The Losel Doll project aims to preserve Tibetan clothing and acts as a fundraiser for the Norbulingka Institute.
The museum houses over 160 costumed dolls which were created by a group of artist monks from Drepung Loseling Monastery. Describing doll’s making, the body is first constructed with wire and paper mache, later hands made of cast metal are affixed. The heads are sculpted of fine clay, the face painted and hair attached. Then they are dressed in tailored clothes of cotton, wool, and silk. Eventually, jewelry and accessories are put onto the dolls, giving them a final touch.
