The Jingang Dance Festival: Amusing the gods

According to the Bon Sect, the aboriginal religion in Tibet, a sorcerer can immediately reach the gods once he beats the Lama drum. Therefore, the Lama drum is a magical medium bridging the gap between Tibetans and the gods.

The Tashilunpo Monastery in Shigates observes the Jingang Dance (Qamo in Tibetan) Festival on the 4th day of the 8th month by the Tibetan calendar (late September by the solar calendar). During the festival, Lamas dance to the beats of Lama drums in the hope of amusing the gods, subduing the evil spirits, and obtaining good luck.

The Jingang Dance is usually performed on a stage under a huge tent. The deep rumbling sound of Lama drums and the slowness of dancers' movements both help to make the festival more mysterious and solemn. Some humorous mimes, intended to entertain the invisible gods during the intervals, however, are so amusing that even the human spectators gathered around get their share of laughter.

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