Tendong Lho Rum Faat 2026 celebrations commence with Yongthoom open market

KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK,: As part of the TendongLho Rum Faat 2026 celebrations, the organising committee on Tuesday initiated the third edition of Yongthoom (Open Market) at Ridge Park, Gangtok, showcasing the rich culture and heritage of the Lepcha community besides promoting entrepreneurship among the youth.

Speaking to the media, Chief Coordinator of Yongthoom and Chief Minister’s Additional Political Secretary (Gangtok), TsheringWangchuk Lepcha, said the open market is being organised for the third consecutive year, with a different theme each year.

The first edition focused on environmental protection, the second celebrated the traditional Lepcha hat, and this year's theme is centred on the GI-tagged Lepcha musical instruments - Tumbuk and PuntongPalit (flute), he said.

The market features 30 stalls showcasing traditional Lepcha cuisine, handloom and handicraft products, traditional attire, ornaments, and products from commercial organisations such as SIMFED, SBI, Sikkim Milk Union, and others. Most of the stalls have been set up by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from across the State. Cultural performances are also being organised every evening as part of the celebrations.

Highlighting the vision of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, TsheringWangchuk Lepcha said the concept of Yongthoom aims to provide local artisans, musicians and weavers with a platform to exhibit and sell their products while promoting the community's rich cultural heritage.

He appealed to the people of Sikkim to visit Yongthoom, enjoy traditional Lepcha delicacies, music and cultural performances, and support local producers by purchasing the products displayed at the stalls.

He further informed that one of the unique attractions this year is a stall where traditional Lepcha musical instruments are crafted. Visitors interested in owning the instruments can place their orders directly with the artisans.

On the concluding day of the event, August 7, the organising committee will attempt to set an India Book of Records title for the ‘Largest gathering of Tumbuk (traditional Lepcha musical instrument) players at a single venue’. Judges from the India Book of Records have been invited to witness and officially record the event.

The Chief Coordinator also said special children's play areas have been created at Yongthoom to encourage young visitors to enjoy the festivities while learning about the rich culture, traditions and heritage of the Lepcha community.

Earlier in the day, TendongLho Rum Faat 2026 Celebration Committee (TLRFCC) President and MLA Delay NamgyalBarfungpa, along with TLRFCC Advisor and MLA Pamin Lepcha, TLRFCC Advisor-cum-MLA ErungTenzing Lepcha, and other dignitaries, participated in traditional prayers and rituals performed by Bongthings for the successful conduct of Yongthoom.

Later in the afternoon, Chakung-Soreng MLA Aditya Golay graced the inauguration of the third edition of Yongthoom (Open Market) as the chief guest and formally declared the market open. The inauguration was followed by a colourful cultural extravaganza featuring traditional songs, dances and musical performances by artistes from the Lepcha community.