NEWS: The Hemis Festival 2026 commenced at the historic Hemis Monastery in Leh district, Ladakh, with religious fervour and cultural celebrations.

ABOUT

• Hemis Festival (Hemis Tsechu)àCelebrated annually at Hemis Monastery on the 10th day of the Tse-Chu month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
• Commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), revered as the Second Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism.
• The festival traces its origin to the 8th centuryà Celebrating Guru Padmasambhava's role in removing evil forces from Ladakh.

KEY FEATURES

• Cham Mask Danceà Sacred ritual dance performed by monks to the accompaniment of drums, cymbals, and long horns.
• Ritual Practiceà A dough effigy symbolizing evil is destroyed and scattered in four directions to signify purification and the victory of good over evil.
• Traditional Drinkà Chhang, a local fermented beverage, is served during the celebrations.
• Thangka Displayà Every 12th year (Year of the Monkey), a giant Thangka of Guru Padmasambhava, adorned with semi-precious stones and pearls, is displayed.

SIGNIFICANCE

• Preserves Ladakh's rich Buddhist cultural heritage.
• Promotes cultural tourism and local traditions.
• Strengthens communal harmony while showcasing the region's spirituality, history, and artistic traditions.