Sikkim: 100th Birthday of Last King of Sikkim Celebrated

GANGTOK: On Monday, a celebration was held at the National Institute of Tibetology in Gangtok to mark the 100th birthday of the 12th Chogyal, late Palden Thondup Namgyal, the last Sikkim monarch.

The 13th Chogyal Wangchuk Namgyal, Prince Palden Gyurmed Namgyal, Princess Hope Leezum Namgyal, and other notable guests who represented the royal families of Sikkim and Bhutan attended the event. In the absence of Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay, the Sikkim government was represented by Education Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha, Ecclesiastical Affairs Minister Sonam Lama, and Roads and Bridges Minister Samdup Lepcha.

With visitors and public khadas offerings made to the monument of the last king, the three-day magnificent event marked the conclusion of the yearlong birth centenary celebrations. Monk Yap Lopen Tempa from Enchey Monastery carried out the ceremony of "Soldep," which involves offering prayers.

The Pemayangtse Pangtoed Bas or Pangtoed dancers similarly performed a ceremonial dance known as a "Dzongkor" around the statue of the late Chogyal. Priests who follow traditional Lepcha and Limboo rites also prayed for harmony and prosperity.

The 13th Chogyal Wangchuk Namgyal spoke at the event how King Palden Thondup Namgyal had "lots of love and affection for Sikkim". “He always worked for the people of Sikkim and the amount of affection, love that is pouring here today is an inspiration for the people to carry on what he wanted to see happen in Sikkim. He wanted development, bring peace, education and good for the people of Sikkim,” Wangchuk added.

Wangchuk went on to explain that the previous king has left a significant legacy, which he sees as a chance for the younger generation to learn from and carry on. According to him, the festivities highlight the former king's support of the nation.

The Sikkim government was requested in a document to declare the anniversary of 12th Chogyal's birth a public holiday.

During an interaction with media persons in this regard, Wangchuck said, “Personally it is really important, but it would only matter if it meant something for the people of Sikkim. Hopefully, we do not wait for another 100 years but day by day people will remember what he was really trying to do. I can imagine this to be in a positive way, a reminder and I am positive government will support”.

In celebrating the life, spirit, and legacy of the 12th Chogyal of Sikkim, Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha expressed his warm memories of enjoying time on the palace grounds and talking with the then Chogyal.

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