GORSAM KORA FESTIVAL

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Context

• The Gorsam Kora Festival, an annual event in Arunachal Pradesh's Zemithang valley, concluded on March 10.
• The festival holds cultural significance and commemorates the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan.

Details

About Gorsam Kora Festival

• Location: Held annually in Arunachal Pradesh’s Zemithang valley.
• History:
  • Centred around the 13th-century Gorsam Chorten, a 93-foot tall stupa.
  • The Festival begins with prayers at the revered Khinzemane Holy Tree believed to be planted by the 14th Dalai Lama.
  • Commemorates the occasion on the final day of the first month of the Lunar calendar.
• Organizers:
  • Organized by Zemithang community in collaboration with civil authorities.
  • Supported by local Indian Army Units.
• Events and Performances:
• Features cultural performances by local troupes and Indian army bands.
• Includes martial performances like Mallakhamb and Zanjh Pathaka.
• Includes a 'Zero Waste Festival' theme.
• Attracted pilgrims and lamas from Bhutan, Tawang, and neighbouring regions.
• Tourism Development:
• Zemithang valley is part of the Vibrant Village Programme.
• Aims to enhance tourist infrastructure and transform Zemithang valley into a thriving tourist destination.

Zemithang Valley

• Zemithang Valley located in Tawang district, known for historical importance.
• Gorsam Chorten constructed during the 13th century AD.
• Predates Tawang Monastery, situated approximately 92 kilometers to the east in Tawang town.
• Spiritual connection with Bhutan's Chorten Kora, constructed in 1740.