Lord Padmasambhava (Gur Rimpoche) is the venerated personality who is considered the reincarnation of Buddha. He is believed to have been born on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Monkey year. It is believed that his life mission was to improve the spiritual condition of all living beings. And so on this day, which comes once in a cycle of 12 years, Hemis observes a major extravaganza in his commemoration. The courtyard of Hemis Gompa - the biggest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh, is the stage for the famous 'Hemis' festival. A raised dais with a cushioned seat and a finely painted small Tibetan table is placed with the traditional items - cups full of holy water, uncooked rice, tormas made of dough and butter and incense sticks. Traditional music is played by number of musicians. Near to them lamas are seated at assigned space.
Early morning the ceremonies begin with a ritual of beating drums and the resounding spar of cymbals and pipes. The photograph of "Dadmokarpo" is then majestically put on display for all to respect and worship. The local people are seen dressed up in their finest traditional garb for the occasion.
The dances end with the ritual destruction of a sacrificial offering of a human figure made of dough by the leader of the Black Hat dancers. The pieces are then scattered in the four directions depicting cleansing of the soul after death.
The observance of these sacred rituals is believed to give spiritual strength and good health.
A colorful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is also the special highlight of this festival.
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