The two-day annual Hemis festival, also known as Hemis Tsechu, commenced at Hemis Monastery in Ladakh on June 16 and 17.

His Eminence Thuksey Rinpoche described the festival as one of the oldest and most significant celebrations in Ladakh, dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, a revered figure in Vajrayana Buddhism across the Himalayas.

During this auspicious occasion, various mask dances are performed by the monks, portraying the life and teachings of Guru Padmasambhava. These dances are believed to bestow blessings upon the attendees and to foster peace and prosperity. His Eminence Thuksras Rinpoche mentioned that the masks and silk garments worn during these dances are rare artifacts of historical value.

The festival features a series of elaborate mask dances, including the 13 Black Hat dancers, the Sixteen Brass mask dance, and the representations of the eight manifestations of Guru Padmasambhava: Guru Tsokye Dorje, Guru Padmasambhava, Guru Lodan Chod Sred, Guru Padma Gyalpo, Guru Nyima Odzer, Guru Shakya Senge, Guru Senge Dragong, and Guru Dorje Drolod. Additionally, rituals are performed for the twelve Zhing Kyong, the protectors of truth, as well as for Serkyem, the four Gatekeepers, the four Lords of the Graveyards, the five Chemchog Heruka, the Five Tshog Len, and the ten great Kings.

The festival concludes with monks gathering to worship Gyalpo Pehar (Dharmapala), the protector of Hemis Monastery, followed by sacred mask dances performed in his honor.