CM Tamang calls for nature preservation at Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration – 2025 in Gangtok
Speaking about the meaning of the festival, Tamang said Tendong Lho Rum Faat honours the sacred Tendong Hill and reflects the Lepcha community’s long tradition of caring for nature.
LOCAL
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on August 8, speaking at the Tendong Lho Rum Faat Celebration – 2025 at Manan Kendra, Gangtok, said that the festival is an important reminder of the close relationship between people and nature. He urged everyone to protect the environment and said that preserving nature is the key to the survival and progress of humanity.
The Chief Minister offered his blessings to all present and thanked the revered Bongthings of the Lepcha community, respected religious gurus, and Prince Palden Namgyal for attending the event. He also expressed gratitude to the Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, M.N. Sherpa, Deputy Speaker Ras Kumari Thapa, Organizing Committee President Nar Bahadur Dahal, and Minister Sonam Lama, along with other ministers, legislators, and advisors.
Tamang welcomed guests from Nepal, Bhutan, and neighbouring regions of West Bengal such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kharsang, Dooars, and Siliguri. Representatives of Lepcha organisations, district panchayats, the Gangtok Municipal Corporation, social and cultural bodies, teachers, students, artists, and media were also present.
Speaking about the meaning of the festival, Tamang said Tendong Lho Rum Faat honours the sacred Tendong Hill and reflects the Lepcha community’s long tradition of caring for nature. “From ancient times, the Lepchas have lived in harmony with mountains, rivers, and forests, and have worked to protect them,” he said.
He said that in the modern age, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, people have realised the truth that the Lepcha elders always knew — that humanity cannot survive without nature. “In the past, forests were cut and rivers were ignored, but now we know this is dangerous. If we protect nature, we protect ourselves,” he said.
The Chief Minister said festivals like Tendong Lho Rum Faat should be used to spread awareness about protecting the environment. He assured that the government will support efforts that preserve both culture and nature.