Why is it in the news?
- The Gorsam Kora Festival was recently celebrated in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, under the theme of ‘India-Bhutan Friendship & Shared Cultural Heritage of Himalayan Buddhism’.
About the Festival
- It’s an annual festival held in Zemithang Valley along Nyanmjang Chu River, Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
- Takes place at Gorsam Chorten, a 93-foot-tall Stupa built in the 13th century AD by Lama Pradhar. This landmark is older than Tawang Monastery, significant icon of Himalayan Buddhism.
- Observed on the last day of the first month of the Lunar calendar.
- Features diverse events including performances by local cultural troupes and Indian Army bands.
- Martial performances like Mallakhamb and Zanjh Pathaka are part of the festival.
- Symbolizes enduring friendship between India and Bhutan.
| Historical Significance
· 14th Dalai Lama sought refuge in Zemithang Valley upon escaping from Tibet in 1959. · Gorsam Chorten, modelled after Nepal’s Boudhinath Stupa, served as a significant site for the Dalai Lama during his escape. · Gorsam Chorten has a spiritual companion, Chorten Kora, located in Trashiyangtse, Bhutan. · Chorten Kora was built in 1740 and shares a similar architectural inspiration with Gorsam Chorten.
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