Cham dances of Torgya
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Masked ritual dances performed by monks in the courtyard of Tawang Monastery during the Torgya festival to drive away evil and bring well-being.
RitualWhere: Arunachal Pradesh (Tawang)Occasion: Torgya festival at Tawang Monastery, held in winter according to the Tibetan calendar
| Performed by | Lamas (monks) of the monastery |
|---|---|
| Costume | Rich brocade robes and large painted masks of protector deities, animals and other figures |
| Music and instruments | Long horns, drums, cymbals and the chanting of monks |
How it is performed
- Monks in masks and robes enter the courtyard one by one or in groups.
- They dance slowly, turning and stepping in fixed patterns to the sound of horns and drums.
- Each dance shows a different deity or figure, some fierce and some comic.
- On the last day an effigy representing evil is taken out and destroyed.
Significance
Torgya is believed to protect the people from natural disasters and misfortune in the coming year. Villagers from around Tawang gather in their best clothes to watch.