a party for a new building

this was a party in celebration of a new residential building for my colleagues at the workplace. it started around 11 a.m. and i got invited around this time as well. i felt that i was obliged to attend and so i went with a colleague who does not live in the new building. we brought along a bottle of chinggis gold vodka. it was my companion's choice and i trusted his judgment. as we arrived in the place, a singer was already singing. i was told he is a famous singer. older guy but very good in his singing. i can tell by the complicated inflections of his voice as he rendered his own version of local folk and traditional songs.

the singer with an accompanist beside a lama.

the lama said some prayers during the program.




a large jar of fermented horse milk (airik).
this is usually served in big bowls to visitors as they arrive. it is bottomless...












the horsemilk being served








the main meal initiated by the lama and officials at the workplace.









'ide' - the traditional mongolian cake for special celebrations and holidays







chopped roast mutton

tsagaalga - a dessert made of animal butter and raisins

the flat owners were individually called and served with horsemilk.

the horsemilk on the same bowl is supposed to be shared with the other guests.

giving of fermented horsemilk

and 'hadag' - blue scarves.

some guests and owners