A FESTIVAL OF FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN INDIA AND BHUTAN.

Gorsam Kora festival was held at Gorsam Chorten in Zimithang, Arunachal Pradesh from 18th to 21 March 2023. This historic festival, which showcases the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region, brings pilgrims from both India and Bhutan to the Chorten to circumambulate and pray. The annual pilgrimage bears testimony to the historical linkages between India and Bhutan, evidenced by the spiritual connection that exists between Chorten Kora in Trashi Yangtse, Bhutan and Gorsam Kora in Zimithang – both being modelled after the Boudanath Stupa in Nepal.

The festival was organized with the support of local community of Zimithang, who were assisted in their endeavours by the local civil administration and the Indian Army.

 

The event commenced with an opening prayer by His Eminence Padam Shree Thengtse Rinpoche and prayers at Khinzemane Holy Tree. The Indian Army conducted various events to include Pipe band and martial dance performance followed by a cultural dance performances by locals. 

 

As part of the government’s ‘Vibrant Village Program’, certain activities were also conducted to engage the local population such as the Run for ‘Plastic Free Zimithang’, Medical Camp and a trek along the pristine Zimithang Valley.

 

The festival was attended by numerous pilgrims and Lamas from Bhutan, Tawang and nearby regions. The Indian Army worked together with local population and civil administration for the successful conduct of the festival conveying its steadfast resolve towards ensuring the integration of people living in remote areas to mainstream, as part of the national building efforts in the region.