GANGTOK, Sept 2 - Pang Lhabsol is one of the most historically significant festivals celebrated in Sikkim.
This unique festival of Sikkim is celebrated annually on the 15th day of the seventh month of the Tibetan calendar corresponding to late August or early September, to commemorate the consecration of Mount Khangchendzonga as the guardian deity of the State.
The festival also commemorates the historic swearing of blood brotherhood between the Lepchas and Bhutias at Kabi Longchok under the witness of Mount Khangchendzonga.
The festival was popularised by the third Chogyal, Chagdor Namgyal (Chakdor Namgyal) and the spectacular Pang Toed or the warrior dance is believed to have been introduced by him on the basis of a visionary dream. By incorporating the Pang Toed Chaam, the Chogyal also formalised the personification of Khangchendzonga as the warrior God. The celebrations basically aims at paying homage to Mount Khangchendzonga, which is believed to have been protecting this holy land since ages.
In Sikkim, the festival is celebrated at the monasteries and different locations showcasing unity, peace and harmony. On this day, Mount Khangchendzonga is invoked and prayed to protect Sikkim. The Sikkimese take part in the festivities by offering prayers, performing other rituals, championing communal harmony and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the State.
This festival used to be celebrated as Sikkim�s National Day during Chogyal�s regime. The main attraction of the Pang Lhabsol is the Naysol prayers offered in all monasteries of Sikkim, invoking the deities for peace, prosperity and protection of Sikkim and its people. The Tsuk Lhakhang Palace Monastery here and the Gonchhen Pemayangtse are the principal places of worship. Another important feature is the Pangtoed religious dance or the warrior dance.