Today was the first day of The Hemis Festival.This commemorates the Indian sage, Padmasambhava, who introduced Tantric Buddhism to this area in the 8th century.There are dances depicting Padmaambhava's life and the moral victory of knowledge over ignorance - and a huge bazaar.
Driving to Hemis - about 45 mins from Leh.
Many tourists and locals attend the festival
The impressive main courtyard at the Hemis monastery with views to the monks' quarters
The musicians
The big introduction
With the unfurling of the grand tanka
And the performance begins..The Black Hat dance - the dancers cut off all evil influences to allow the festival to continue successfully
The entry of Guru Padmasambhava
All performed by monks - young and old
One of the four gate keepers
The Lords of the Graveyards
Leaving the main arena and there is just as much colourful activity in the monastery grounds
Waiting for our driver..
Even more to feast on on the drive back to Leh
A wonderfully fascinating cultural day.
M
No comments:
Post a Comment