When Sita Duoji closes his eyes to perform “The Epic of King Gesar“, he transports his audience to a world of heroes and adventure. The Xizang University student is dedicated to keeping the ancient oral tradition alive.
At just 21 years old, Sita has mastered the art of narrating the epic tale, which spans over a million verses and is considered one of the world’s longest folk stories. The legend of King Gesar recounts the heroic deeds of a Himalayan king who battled demons and protected his people.
“I feel a deep connection to the story,” Sita says. “It’s not just a legend; it’s a part of our cultural heritage.”
Sita learned the art of storytelling from his grandfather, who was also a performer of the epic. Now, he performs at local schools and community centers, inspiring a new generation to appreciate their rich traditions.
By sharing the tale of King Gesar, Sita hopes to preserve the epic and keep it relevant in today’s world. “It’s important for young people to know where we come from,” he explains. “Our stories shape who we are.”
Reference(s):
Xizang Time | Sita Duoji: Young storyteller keeps ancient legend alive
cgtn.com
