Monks debates in Sera

Tibet, just North of Lhassa.

Sera, or "the rose garden" was founded in 1419 and is one of the three great Gelukpa monastic universities in Tibet.

Following a tradition which entered in Tibet during the 8th century, monks gather to debate on Buddhist writings. 

With specific gestures, the "questioner" raises a philosophic question to the "defender". 

Each gesture has a symbolic value, and a meaning.

Answer must be given in a timeframe after the questioner has clapped in his hands.

Strange, graceful suite of movements, impressive and noisy choreography when tens of monks do it at the same time.... 

Nikon D800 - AF-S 70-200mm @ 90mm