The state-level celebration of Tamu Lhochhar, the New Year festival of the Gurung community, is being held at Yangang constituency in Sikkim with great enthusiasm and strong participation from people across the state. The programme is being organised as a major cultural event this year, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) attended the function as the chief guest. Tamu Lhochhar is one of the most important festivals of the Gurung community. The word “Tamu” refers to the Gurung people, while “Lhochhar” means New Year. The festival marks the beginning of a new year according to the Gurung calendar and is observed with prayers, cultural songs, dances and community gatherings. The celebration is known for its colourful traditional attire, folk performances and a warm sense of togetherness. Community members, elders, youths and children come together to celebrate their shared identity and heritage.
This year at Yangang, the festival venue turned vibrant with traditional dresses, musical instruments, cultural troupes and local food stalls. The state-level celebration is being hosted in Yangang constituency, and Minister Puran Gurung is serving as the patron of the programme. The event has received strong support from the community as well as the state government. Cultural groups and participants from different parts of Sikkim travelled to Yangang to attend the programme and showcase traditional Gurung folk dances and songs. For the Gurung community, Tamu Lhochhar is not only a festival but also a way to pass on cultural traditions to the younger generation. Many elders say that the festival reminds people of their roots, customs and values. The celebration includes rituals, community prayers, social gatherings and exchange of greetings for the New Year.
In Sikkim, Tamu Lhochhar is celebrated every year with the aim of promoting unity and cultural preservation. The festival encourages people to stay connected to their identity while also strengthening harmony within the wider Sikkimese society. The celebration also highlights the multicultural character of the state, where different communities observe their traditional festivals with respect and cooperation.During the programme, people were seen greeting one another and spending time with friends and family. Traditional songs, instruments and rhythmic dances were among the main attractions. Many participants wore traditional Gurung attire, which added to the festive atmosphere. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s presence at the event gave the festival additional significance at the state level. His attendance reflected the government’s support towards safeguarding cultural heritage and recognising the contribution of the Gurung community to Sikkim’s social and cultural life.