Gyalshing: Bhum Chu festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm today at Tashiding Monastery under Gyalshing district.
The solemn ceremony was held under the supervision of Khenchen Lha Tsering Rinpoche of Tashiding Monastery and was attended by Church Minister and Sangha MLA Sonam Lama, Deputy Speaker and Regional MLA Sangay Lepcha, Church Department Advisor R.S. Bhutia, Gyalshing DC M Bharani Kumar, officials of concerned departments and devotees.
As reported, Bhum Chu, a sacred urn filled with holy water, was opened at 1:30 a.m. after seven days of special prayers by monks from Tashiding Monastery and other monasteries. Three cups of water were taken from it. The first cup was distributed to the royal family, the second to the monks and the third among the pilgrims on the full moon day.
It is believed that the level of holy water in the Kalash is a sign of good fortune for the coming year. High or low water levels indicate drought, disease and natural disasters.
The festival also highlights the unique cultural heritage of Sikkim and reminds of its spiritual origins.
On record, more than 18 to 20 thousand devotees from across the state and neighboring countries Bhutan, Nepal and other places registered their presence for the blessings.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister thanked the monks and the organizing committee for their active participation and successfully conducting the Bhum Chu Utsav. He informed that the state government will give special grant to organize Bhoom Chu Utsav every year.
Medical camps, information centers and other facilities were set up for the convenience of the devotees during the celebrations.
