Lachung Dzomsa began a grand three-day cultural programme to celebrate Losar, also known as Gyalpo Losar, the Tibetan New Year, at Lachung Thomchi Ground. The festival has brought together local residents, artists and dignitaries in a show of unity and cultural pride.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Minister for Forest and Environment, Mines and Geology, and Science and Technology Departments, Mr Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The programme began with a formal reception of the Chief Guest. This was followed by a welcome address and a welcome song presented by the Lachung Young Cultural Group. The atmosphere at the ground was festive as people from different parts of the area gathered to take part in the celebration.
The cultural segment featured performances by Dream Dance Studio, Mangan, Tumlong Ongditse Welfare Association, and the Lachung Young Cultural Group. The audience witnessed a colourful display of traditional dances representing Lepcha, Tamang, Nepali, Bhutia, Tibetan and Bhutanese communities. Gorshay dances were also performed, along with contemporary cultural presentations and solo songs.
Each performance reflected the rich and diverse cultural identity of the region. The programme highlighted the spirit of harmony and mutual respect among different communities living in Lachung and nearby areas. People of all ages attended the event and participated with enthusiasm.
One of the major highlights of the day was the release of a Lachungpa song album by the Pipons in the presence of the Chief Guest. The album release was warmly welcomed by the gathering and added a special touch to the celebration. Many in the audience appreciated the effort to preserve and promote local language and music through such initiatives.
The event was also attended by former Minister and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Mr Hissey Lachungpa, Chairman of Tourism Mr Sonam Norgay Lachungpa, Chairman of SIMFED Mr Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia, Chairman of Forest and Environment Department Mr Pema Wongay Lachungpa, SDM Chungthang Mr Arun Chettri, SDPO Chungthang Mr Chandan Chhetri, and officials from various line departments.
The three-day programme will continue with more cultural performances and community participation. The successful beginning of the festival has once again shown the strong cultural roots and unity of the people of Lachung. The celebration of Losar not only marks the start of a new year but also strengthens social bonds and keeps traditional values alive in the region.