Arunachal: Gorsam Kora Festival concludes with a zero-waste celebration in Tawang

The three-day Gorsam Kora Festival, a cherished annual celebration symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan, concluded on March 29 in Zemithang, Tawang district, with an inspiring message—"A Festival Without Waste & Plastic."

This year's festival was spearheaded by Lungla MLA Tsering Lhamu, who also serves as the Advisor to Minister Planning & Minister Women & Child development, Arunachal Pradesh. She championed the cause of sustainable celebrations, ensuring the festival adhered to a Zero Waste initiative, in collaboration with Further and Beyond Foundation, the Indian Army, and local administration.

Held annually at the historic Gorsam Chorten, a 93-foot-tall stupa dating back to the 13th century, the festival is a revered event for the Himalayan Buddhist community. The chorten, bearing a striking resemblance to Nepal’s Boudhanath Stupa, shares spiritual ties with Bhutan’s Chorten Kora, built in 1740.

The event saw the participation of monks, pilgrims, and Lamas from Bhutan, Nepal, Dirang, Tawang, and neighboring regions. Around 40 Bhutanese civilians made their way to the Gorsam Chorten Stupa, leveraging the festival as an opportunity for cross-border trade and cultural exchange.

The Indian Army and local cultural troupes added to the festival’s vibrancy with captivating performances, including:

Traditional Buddhist chanting & rituals

Enthralling cultural dance performances

Martial arts showcases, including Mallakhamb and Zanjh Pathaka

Musical performances by Indian Army bands

Beyond the celebrations, the festival also emphasized community welfare, with initiatives like free medical camps benefiting the local population.

Under the leadership of MLA Tsering Lhamu, the festival embraced an eco-conscious approach, reinforcing the importance of a plastic-free celebration. Supported by volunteers, local authorities, and the Indian Army, a dedicated clean-up drive ensured that the event left behind no environmental footprint.