Hemis festival begins with traditional fervour; LG Saxena joins celebrations

LEH: Amid an atmosphere of devotion and festivity, the annual Hemis Festival, one of Ladakh’s most significant religious and cultural celebrations, commenced on Wednesday at the historic Hemis Monastery with special prayers led by Thuksey Rinpoche. Thousands of devotees, monks, tourists and cultural enthusiasts gathered to witness the two-day festival dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, revered as the Second Buddha and credited with spreading Buddhism across the Himalayan region.

The festival opened with sacred rituals, prayers and the traditional Cham mask dances, performed by monks in elaborate costumes symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The centuries-old celebration serves as a living expression of Ladakh’s rich Buddhist heritage and attracts visitors from across India and abroad.

Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena visited the revered Hemis Monastery and participated in the festivities. Describing the occasion as a profound spiritual experience, the Lieutenant Governor said the Hemis Festival reflects Ladakh’s timeless Buddhist traditions, vibrant cultural legacy and the collective devotion of thousands who assemble every year to witness the sacred ceremonies.

Expressing gratitude to the monks of Hemis Monastery and the people of Ladakh, LG Saxena lauded their efforts in preserving and showcasing this invaluable cultural legacy to the world. He prayed for the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava to guide humanity towards peace, harmony and spiritual enlightenment.

Celebrated annually according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, the Hemis Festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava and remains one of the most prominent cultural and spiritual events in the Union Territory. Apart from its religious significance, the festival highlights Ladakh’s unique artistic traditions and serves as a major attraction for cultural tourism, reinforcing the region’s identity as a centre of spirituality and living heritage.

The celebrations will continue on Thursday with more sacred rituals and traditional performances, offering devotees and visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the spiritual and cultural essence of the Himalayas.