Sikkim: Lepcha Heritage Takes Center Stage at Khamri Festival in Gangtok

GANGTOK: The Lepcha community's vibrant traditions were on full display during the two-day Khamri festival, held as a prelude to Namsoong and organized by Dzongu Heritage in Gangtok.

This event honored the Lepchas' rich cultural legacy with captivating traditional dances, melodious music, and a selection of authentic culinary specialties, attracting attendees from various parts of the region.

Traditional artifacts exhibited at the festival threw light into the rich community heritage in terms of its past history and culture. Lungthen Saa, which means preserving cultural traditions, has been the theme this year, which calls upon everyone to strengthen community ties.

Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, the Minister for Forest and Environment and MLA of Dzongu, was the chief guest at the festival. He underscored the significance of such events in keeping the Lepcha heritage alive. “Khamri serves as an essential platform for the younger generation to reconnect with their roots while introducing the wider world to the uniqueness of Lepcha culture,” he remarked.

The festival brought out the legacy of the Lepcha community, raising awareness of their culture and encouraging people to take measures to protect it. The dance, music, and stories that Khamri shared across generations have further strengthened the common identity and pride in the culture of the Lepcha.

The Khamri festival was a celebration of the cultural resilience that inspired both the visitors and participants alike and reinforced the commitment to preserve the rich heritage for generations to come.

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