Leh, June 01: The Cultural Academy, Leh, in collaboration with Hemis Monastery, successfully organized a seminar on the “Monastic Mask Dance of Ladakh—Its Origin, Significance, and Traditions” at Hemis Monastery on June 29. The seminar, which focused on the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh’s mask dances, was attended by monks from various monasteries across the region.
The event brought together representatives from ten monasteries, each of which presented on different aspects of the traditional mask dances. The participating monasteries included Sakti Monastery, Chemdey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Matho Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Likir Monastery, Phyang Monastery, Korzok Monastery, and Wanla Monastery. The presentations explored the historical significance, ritualistic practices, and cultural importance of the mask dances, providing a comprehensive overview of this vibrant tradition.
Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel, the chief guest of the seminar, expressed his gratitude to Hemis Monastery for hosting the event and emphasized the importance of making such seminars an annual tradition. “This seminar not only deepens our understanding of Ladakh’s cultural heritage but also opens up opportunities for our youth to engage with and appreciate these traditions,” Chosphel said. He also urged the monasteries to compile a list of thangkas in need of restoration, noting that the LAHDC, Leh, would be working towards preserving these culturally significant artifacts.
Gyen Angdu, President of the Gonpa Association, highlighted the seminar’s role in fostering knowledge among the monks. “Different monasteries have unique mask dances, and today’s seminar provides an invaluable opportunity for monks to learn from each other and share their experiences,” he said.
Tsewang Paljor, Deputy Secretary of the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Leh, celebrated the seminar as a significant cultural event. “This seminar is a joyous occasion for all of us. It should indeed be organized every year to further our understanding of Ladakh’s monastic traditions,” Paljor remarked. He praised the seminar as a testament to the monasteries’ role as centers of cultural learning and knowledge.
The seminar was divided into two sessions. The first session was presided over by Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel, while the second session was led by Ven. Nawang Jigmet, the Head Monk of Hemis Monastery. The discussions and presentations throughout the day provided deep insights into the mask dance traditions and their significance in Ladakh’s cultural landscape.
The success of this seminar underscores the importance of preserving and sharing Ladakh’s monastic traditions. It also sets a precedent for future cultural events that aim to celebrate and sustain the region’s rich heritage.
