Wednesday, Aug 03, 2022 08:15 [IST]
Last Update: Wednesday, Aug 03, 2022 02:34 [IST]
GANGTOK,: Drukpa Tshechi, a Buddhist festival, was celebrated with full zeal and enthusiasm at Lhashar Valley (15,000 ft) in Mangan district on Monday.
The celebration organised by Drokpa community, the nomadic yak headers, and supported by Lachen Dzomsa began with rituals followed by traditional yak race and other activities which had the participation of locals along with a handful of visitors from across the State.
The yak race, a tradition passed down since generations, is an effort by the Drokpas to keep their unique tradition and culture alive.
Out of six participants this year, Wangckuk Gyaltsen, a Drokpa, and Sonam Tshering Lachenpa stood first and second respectively.
“This day is basically celebrated to preserve and promote our culture as it’s important for us the younger generations to carry forward the traditions which was passed down to us by our ancestors”, said Sonam, 23.
Likewise, Wangchuk, a 17-year-old yak header who quit his studies to help his father, said the yak headers have to deal with extreme weather conditions to sustain their livelihood.
