Gedong Festival of Tibetan Ethnic Minority in Shangri-La City, Diqing

Overview of the Festival

  • Chinese Name:香格里拉格冬节
  • English Name: Gedong Festival of Tibetan Ethnic Minority in Shangri-La City, Diqing
  • Location:Shangri-La City, Diqing

The “Gedong” Festival is held on the 29th day of the 12th month in the lunar calendar in Zhongdian (with different dates for various temples in Deqin). The term “Gedong” in Tibetan signifies a gathering for a feast with nine different types of food. It is also the most grand and solemn event in the lama temples, known as the mask dance. The temples have dedicated choreography for the entire performance, accompanied by instruments such as the suona (a traditional horn), big cymbals, trombones, human bone horns, and white conch shells. The music is deep and solemn. Dancers hold various props, representing deities, and the performance is visually stunning. Large numbers of Tibetans, sometimes reaching five to six thousand people, gather at the temple for the festival, making it a grand event.

Local Activities During the Gedong Festival

1. Religious Rituals and Ceremonies

  • Offering Ceremonies: The festival begins with traditional offerings to deities and ancestors, which may include food, drink, and incense. This is an important aspect that seeks blessings for health, prosperity, and a successful harvest in the coming year.
  • Chanting and Prayers: Monks and locals often gather in temples to perform chants and prayers, reinforcing their spiritual connections during this auspicious time.

2. Mask Dances

  • Sacred Mask Dance (Cham Dance): One of the highlights of the Gedong Festival is the cham dance, performed by monks in colorful, ornate costumes and masks. This ritual dance symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is accompanied by traditional music, creating a captivating atmosphere.
  • Choreographed Performances: Temples often have specific choreographies passed down through generations, and the dances are both a form of storytelling and a means of spiritual expression.

3. Music and Instrumentation

  • Traditional Instruments: Live music is an integral part of the festival, featuring traditional Tibetan instruments such as the suona (similar to a double-reed horn), dahuo (a kind of flute), long trumpet, and drums. The music is generally deep and solemn, setting a reverent tone for the festivities.
  • Community Singing: Local folk songs may also be performed, focusing on themes of love, nature, and community.

4. Culinary Feasts

  • Gathering for Meals: Families and community members prepare and share traditional dishes, including tsampa (roasted barley flour), butter tea, and other local specialties. The act of sharing food brings people together, reinforcing communal bonds.
  • Feasting with Nine Foods: The name “Gedong” refers to a gathering feast that typically includes nine different types of food, symbolizing abundance and sharing.

5. Cultural Exhibitions

  • Artisan Markets: Local artisans may set up stalls to sell handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and jewelry. These markets offer a chance for visitors to appreciate Tibetan craftsmanship and acquire unique souvenirs.
  • Storytelling and Oral Traditions: Elders often partake in storytelling, sharing myths, legends, and historical anecdotes that are vital to preserving the cultural heritage of the Tibetan community.

6. Community Games and Sports

  • Traditional Sports: The festival can include various games and competitions that may involve traditional Tibetan sports, showcasing skills and fostering a spirit of camaraderie among community members.
  • Horse Riding and Races: Horse-related activities may also be featured, reflecting the importance of horses in Tibetan culture.