World Sherpa Association Holds Third General Convention in Darjeeling, Emphasises Language and Cultural Preservation

Darjeeling, India — The World Sherpa Association held its third general convention in Darjeeling, India, from October 8 to 10, 2026, bringing together representatives from across the world to strengthen community unity and promote the preservation of Sherpa language, religion, culture, traditions and identity.

According to a statement of appreciation issued after the convention by association president Somphuri Sherpa, participants included leaders, office-bearers and delegates from Sherpa organisations and community associations, known as *kidugs*, in Nepal and India, alongside representatives from more than 25 other countries.

The opening ceremony was held with religious leader Sange Khenpo Rangjung Rinpoche as chief guest. Several other Khenpos, Lamas and community figures also attended.

On the second day, a programme attended by Sikkim Legislative Assembly Speaker M. N. Sherpa featured research presentations by approximately 10–12 Sherpa youths, researchers and PhD holders. The presentations focused on the community’s history, way of life, identity and heritage. Participants also exchanged research findings and experiences relating to the Sherpa community.

The convention concluded on the third day with elected representative Bharat Chhetri attending as chief guest. At Pasangbu Monastery in Lava, religious leader Rinpoche Tulku Dawa Jangbu administered the oath of office to the newly elected executive committee and offered his blessings.

Speaking on behalf of the new committee, president Somphuri Sherpa pledged to strengthen the association as a shared platform for Sherpas worldwide and a foundation for their identity, unity and representation. He identified the preservation and transmission of Sherpa language, religion, culture, customs and traditions to future generations as a priority.

The statement also outlined commitments to education, social development, mutual assistance and community welfare, with the aim of building an effective, inclusive and trusted organisation. Sherpa said the association would coordinate and collaborate with Nepali communities and non-Sherpa organisations worldwide.

He thanked outgoing president Thendup Sherpa, general secretary Ang Jangbu Sherpa, founding president Ang Dorjee Lama Sherpa and the outgoing executive committee for their contributions to the convention. He also expressed special appreciation to All India Sherpa Buddhist Association president Dorjee Pinasa Sherpa, general secretary N. T. Sherpa and its executive committee.

The statement acknowledged the contributions of Nepal Sherpa Association president Lakpa Thilen Sherpa, Nepal Women Sherpa Association president Lakpa Phuti Sherpa, Sherpa Youth Association president Jangbu Sherpa, Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality chairperson Pasang Nurbu Sherpa, and office-bearers and performers from the Himalayan Sherpa Cultural Centre.

Sherpa also expressed gratitude to local kidugs and organisations in Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kurseong, Sonada, Lava, Kalimpong and surrounding areas for arranging hospitality, accommodation, meals and transport. He said the warm welcome and support extended by local communities had further strengthened mutual relations, goodwill and unity among Sherpas.