Education Minister inaugurates 3-day state-level Tsechu festival at Rewalsar

The historic and sacred town of Rewalsar in Mandi district witnessed the grand inauguration of the three-day state-level Tsechu festival yesterday. Education Minister Rohit Thakur attended the opening as the chief guest and lit the ceremonial lamp to formally commence the festivities.

Addressing the gathering, Thakur conveyed a strong message of compassion, coexistence and global peace. He said the Tsechu festival was not merely a celebration but a vibrant confluence of faith, culture and spiritual energy that bound society together through unity and humanity.

Starting his address with a warm greeting of “Jule, Namaste,” Thakur extended heartfelt wishes to all attendees. He highlighted Rewalsar’s significance as a sacred tri-junction and a spiritual seat of Guru Padmasambhava, attracting devotees from across the world. The festival brings together thousands of pilgrims from regions such as Leh-Ladakh, Zanskar, Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Kullu and Mandi, reflecting the deep roots of Himalayan Buddhist traditions and shared cultural heritage.

Minister Thakur noted that witnessing devotees circumambulating the holy Rewalsar Lake, chanting mantras, and lighting lamps filled the surroundings with peace and positive energy. He said the place inspired love, kindness, and compassion in everyone who visited.

He urged all to take a pledge on this sacred land of Guru Padmasambhava to uphold values of harmony, compassion, and humanity in their lives. According to him, the true essence of the Tsechu festival lay in purifying the mind, promoting social unity, and wishing for global peace, under the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava.

Festival organising committee president and Balh SDM Smritika Negi honoured the chief guest and other dignitaries with Himachali caps, shawls, and mementos. In her welcome speech, she expressed gratitude to the district administration and locals for their support in ensuring the festival’s successful organisation.

During the ceremony, Thakur also joined differently-abled children of the day care centre at Bhangrotu to cut a cake, adding a heartwarming touch to the celebrations.

The three-day Tsechu festival in Rewalsar continues to celebrate the region’s spiritual and cultural legacy while promoting values of peace, compassion, and harmony among all.