SIBLAC slams Sikkim government over error on Pang Lhabsol date in official book

A long-standing controversy over the wrong mention of the Pang Lhabsol festival date in a government publication has once again come to light, as the Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC) renewed its criticism against the state authorities for failing to correct the error even after two decades.

The issue began in 2004 when the Sikkim government released the Sikkim Studies Series (Culture, Part-1, Volume-III) book. In the section on culture, the book states that Pang Lhabsol is observed every year on September 2. However, SIBLAC maintains that the information is wrong and misleading. According to them, Pang Lhabsol is not tied to a fixed Gregorian date but is observed from the 8th to 15th day of the seventh month of the Sikkimese lunar calendar, which usually falls in late August or early September.

Despite repeated representations and letters, SIBLAC alleges that the government has shown little interest in correcting this mistake. “This blunder is still yet to be corrected despite our efforts since its publication in 2004. Our representatives are all in deep slumber,” said one of the members, adding that the mistake disrespects the cultural and spiritual sentiments of the people of Sikkim.

Pang Lhabsol is one of the most unique and important festivals of Sikkim. It is celebrated across the state, with the main function held in Gangtok at the Statues of Unity. The festival honors Mount Khangchendzonga, the guardian deity of Sikkim, along with other local deities. Unlike many festivals based on myth or legend, Pang Lhabsol is rooted in a historical event that united the communities of Sikkim. The celebration involves the chanting of prayers by Lamas and Boongthings, colorful dances, and rituals symbolizing unity and protection of the land.

SIBLAC convener Tseten Bhutia had earlier warned against distorting the identity of the festival by associating it with names such as “Ekta Divas” or “Day of Brotherhood.” He stressed that Pang Lhabsol has its own sacred meaning and must not be altered for political or social convenience. In 2006, the committee had already issued strong statements condemning what it called an attempt to dilute traditional religious ethos.

The group has also raised concerns about other cultural practices. They pointed out that the Saga Dawa Cho Kor procession, an annual event where holy scriptures are carried through Gangtok to bless the people, was once diverted from its original route. According to SIBLAC, such changes disrupt centuries-old traditions and undermine the cultural fabric of the state.

Members of the committee argue that while development is important, traditional values and festivals should never be compromised. They cited examples like the Puri Rath Yatra in Odisha and the Ganesh Utsav processions in Mumbai, which continue along their original routes despite modern challenges.