ASBA releases documentary on sacred Pangtoed Cham

KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK,: The All Sikkimese Bhutia Association (ASBA) released a short documentary titled ‘The Sacred Pangtoed Cham’ on Wednesday in Gangtok. The film highlights the significance of Pang Lhabsol and the sacred Pangtoed Cham dance, which is an integral part of the festival.

The release event was graced by Ecclesiastical minister Sonam Lama as the chief guest. Also present were Mangan Zilla Adhakshya Kado Lepcha, ASBA president C.L. Denzongpa, advisors and chairpersons of ASBA, GMC Deputy Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia, OSDs, and various departmental heads.

Minister Sonam Lama also serves as the chief advisor to ASBA.

Speaking at the function, minister Lama emphasized the unique cultural and spiritual importance of Pang Lhabsol in Sikkim. He stated that the festival, observed by all communities of the State, involves prayers to Mount Khangchendzonga, revered as the guardian deity of Sikkim, for peace, prosperity, and harmony.

Pang Lhabsol is a defining symbol of Sikkimese identity, he said, noting that the festival has been observed with enthusiasm and reverence since the time of the monarchy.

The documentary aims to preserve and promote this rich tradition and ensure that knowledge of the festival and the sacred Cham dance is passed on to future generations.

The minister further highlighted that the Sikkimese royal family continues to observe the festival, keeping alive the customs and practices of the past. Since 2024, both the Governor and Chief Minister have actively participated in the celebration, reaffirming its cultural significance. Last year, the Chief Minister and the State government expressed their willingness to fund the entire festival, an initiative warmly accepted by the royal family and the associated trust.

This year, the Ecclesiastical department will support the festival under the direction of the Chief Minister.

Lama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing tribal status for the 12 left-out communities of Sikkim and criticized attempts by certain individuals and political groups to create division among the Sikkimese people. ASBA, he said, has strongly condemned such acts and stands united in preserving the peace, unity, and progress of the State.

We will not allow any individual or political party with vested interests to disrupt the peace, prosperity, and brotherhood of Sikkim, he said. He maintained that such persons cannot even win a panchayat election, forget about winning in Assembly election.

Minister Lama also expressed gratitude to the teachers, elders, musicians, and dancers who continue to keep the Pangtoed Cham tradition alive. He emphasized the importance of passing down this sacred art form to the younger generation to ensure its continuity.

He expressed hope that the documentary would not only educate Sikkimese youth but also bring wider national and global recognition to Pang Lhabsol. He concluded by stating that future editions of the documentary will include additional archival footage and cultural elements to further preserve and promote Sikkim’s unique heritage.