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Gorsam Kora Festival


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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