New Delhi : The state-level Gyalpo Losar organised by Denzong Sherpa Association (DSA) with the support of Sherpa Samaj of Sikkim (kiduk) was celebrated in Wangmasukhey Ground, Perbing, Namchi, today.
The chief minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, participated in the event as the chief guest and the special guest respectively.
Ben Tulku Dasang Rinpoche and Ben Tulku Ngawang Tenzin Chogyal Rinpoche were the religious heads for this new year celebration of Sherpa community.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Minister received a warm welcome from the members of the Denzong Sherpa committee. During his visit, he explored the traditional Sherpa stalls and food stalls that showcased the community’s rich cultural heritage.
At the commencement of the event, the members of the Denzong Sherpa Committee paid a distinguished tribute to the Chief Minister. He was adorned with the traditional garments of the Sherpa community, which comprised the ‘Kho’ (dress) and ‘Shambu’ (hat), signifying profound respect and esteem.
The Chief Minister, during his address, spoke about the importance of preserving the communal identity of all communities in Sikkim. He stated that culture, tradition, customs, costumes, and languages define a community’s identity and should be prioritised.
He shared, the state government has implemented a rule through the Department of Education requiring individuals to wear traditional costumes at least once a week. He further announced that students will be required to pass their respective language subjects to be promoted to the next class.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is appointing language teachers to ensure language preservation among future generations. He urged everyone present to dedicate at least an hour daily to learning and practicing their respective languages.
He mentioned the construction of community bhawans for all communities in Sikkim and appealed for their proper utilisation, as many remain unused despite being in good condition.
Referring to the Sherpa community, the Chief Minister acknowledged its role in Sikkim and emphasised the importance of oral history. He emphasised the importance of recording oral history for research purposes and the development of community museums.
The Chief Minister announced a grant of ₹2 lakh for existing roadside vendors from the Namthang-Rateypani constituency to build stalls.
Additionally, he announced infrastructure projects including, renovation of Perbing Samtelling Gumpa and support for the DSA in producing a Sherpa film and a vision document. He also announced road construction in Namcheybong and the renovation of the Sherpa Gumpa in the constituency.
Furthermore, a book launching programme was also held during the event, featuring two notable publications. The first book, titled “Ethnography of Sikkimese Sherpa Tribe,” supported by the Denzong Sherpa Association, with editorial contributions from Dr. Rinzing Ongmu Sherpa and Dr. Mingma Thundu Sherpa. This work includes contributions from several authors, and other research assistants, all under the auspices of the Denzong Sherpa Association.
The second publication, “Food Habits of Sherpa Tribe,” funded by the Tribal Affairs Division and authored by Dr. Mingma Thundu Sherpa, under the guidance of the Denzong Sherpa Association.
Cultural performances featuring traditional Sherpa songs and dances were also held. Additionally, trophies and certificates were awarded to the participants and winners of the Sherpa Dance Competition. Perbing Sherpa Kyidug secured first place, Kabi Lingchom Sherpa Kyidug came in second, and Sherpa Luksol Chodak from Bakhim took third place.
