The Spring Festival Gala is China's most iconic stage. Last night, it made mention of the recent earthquake in Xizang, sending a powerful message of solidarity to the people recovering from the disaster. CGTN captured the heartfelt reaction of one family as they saw their photo on the big screen.
On China's grandest stage, the recent earthquake in Xizang received a special tribute.
Like hundreds of millions of Chinese, Sangye's family was gathered for dinner, watching the Spring Festival Gala.
Then came the extraordinary moment.
On the screen appeared Sangye's family relaxing in this very room, followed by a photo of his wife and daughter smiling to the camera.
It took everyone by surprise.
Reporter: "Did you know your family would be on the Gala?"
SANGYE Village Chief, Gurong Village, Dingri County "Not at all."
DAWA TSERING Sangye's brother "We never thought we could be on TV. Feel very happy inside."
Sangye's family is one of 40 households in Gurong Village, which suffered the heaviest casualties in the recent earthquake.
XU CHAO First Secretary, Gurong Village, Dingri County "Our village was the most severely affected, but it also received the most attention from all sectors of society and the highest levels of leadership. Aid of all kinds arrived here first."
Indeed, Gurong Village was the first community in the earthquake-affected zone to move into well-equipped prefabricated houses, complete with access to TV, electricity, and 5G internet.
As the village chief, Sangye has been at the forefront of rebuilding his community.
Reporter: "Your father was among the first responders after the earthquake."
DANZEN WANGMO Sangye's Eldest Daughter "That's right. Once he made sure we were safe, he immediately went to help other villagers."
Reporter: "What do you think of your father?"
DANZEN WANGMO Sangye's Eldest Daughter "I think he's a great man. Even though he can't speak Mandarin, in my eyes he's truly a great person."
Hearing such praise from his daughter, Sangye responded with a wide grin but few words.
As we said goodbye to the family, Sangye headed to another meeting with villagers to discuss reconstruction plans, which are set to begin soon.
Chen Mengfei, CGTN, Dingri County, Xizang Autonomous Region.