KOLKATA (Diya TV) — Nestled in the scenic Zemithang valley of Arunachal Pradesh, the Gorsam Kora Festival captivates thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year with its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Spanning three days, this ancient festival showcases a tapestry of cultural performances and Buddhist rituals against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas.
The festival revolves around the Gorsam Chorten Stupa, a majestic structure dating back to the 12th century, which stands as a testament to the region’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Situated near the Line of Actual Control with China, Zemithang holds strategic importance, serving as a symbolic tri-junction between India, Bhutan, and Tibet.
Organized with the support of the Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps, the festival has garnered increased attention in recent years, particularly amidst geopolitical tensions in the region. As China seeks to strengthen ties with Bhutan, events like the Gorsam Kora Festival play a crucial role in fostering enduring bonds between the people of Bhutan and India.
The significance of Zemithang extends beyond its cultural festivities. It was here that the 14th Dalai Lama found sanctuary during his journey from Tibet to India in 1959, planting a sapling that has since grown into a revered tree cherished by pilgrims.
Central to the festival is the towering Gorsam Chorten Stupa, modeled after the iconic Boudhanath Stupa of Nepal. Constructed centuries ago to protect the village from malevolent forces, the chorten stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of the region.
The Gorsam Kora Festival not only attracts Monpa people from neighboring villages but also draws pilgrims and tourists from Bhutan and Tibet. Against the backdrop of traditional Monpa attire, visitors engage in circumambulations around the stupa, offering prayers and immersing themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Zemithang’s historical significance as the first refuge of the Dalai Lama in India adds to the festival’s allure, underscoring its role as a beacon of spiritual freedom and cultural heritage in the Himalayan foothills.
