Celebration of unity

The idea of a guardian angel fills us with utmost wonder and happiness. The concept of being protected by someone or something, who shall always put our wellbeing over themselves gives us the satisfaction of wellness and peace. One such festival in Sikkim is a milestone in this regard which celebrates its guardian every year with the same vigour and enthusiasm. People from all over the world descend to the state of Sikkim in order to partake in the celebrations which are quite unparalleled to anything seen any over. Read the following article about Pang Lhabsol, which honours Mount Kanchenjunga.

Commemorating the treaty among Lepchas and Bhutias, which promises brotherhood between the two communities, Pang Lhabsol marks the occasion of honouring the mountain deity, Mount Kanchenjunga, which is said to be conferred with the title of the guardian deity. The mountain god is believed to have been protecting the state from tough times, and the people believe that the mountain god is responsible for introducing Buddhism to the state. The much awaited festival is generally celebrated in the month of August and September.The representation of the three major pillars of the festival, in the form of Dzonga, Gonpo and Dragpo Deshi, are created to facilitate their worshipping.

Lhatsun Chenpo, one of the major influencers of Buddhism, described in his biography about the miraculous omens sent by the almighty which directed him to the land of rice, or as Sikkim is referred to, by the people of Bhutan.

The festival is symbolic and is famous for its warrior dance, which is unique in its own sense. The dance is largely based on the teachings of the third Chogyal and is called 'chaams,' while the dancers are called Pangtoed. The masked performers are said to be elegant and gracious, with their movements, as swift as the flow of water. Sikkim witnesses a rise in its tourism, with people from all over the world, coming to watch the local dance performances and to cheer them up. The entire festival is marked by the celebratory mood, lighted up by the vibrant atmosphere, filled by drums, music and dances. The mornings are filled with religious processions whereas the evenings are marked by light hearted games of volleyball and the aroma of local dishes.

One of the major objectives of the festival is to induce the values of peace and harmony among the generations yet to come. A stone was placed, in order to symbolise the treaty signed in North Sikkim and honour the bond of brotherhood. The whole atmosphere of the place during the festival is quite electrical and full of energy.