[ Prem Chetry ]
SALARI, 23 Dec: Chik Saibu – a weeklong ritual and festival recognising the bond between humans and nature – concluded in Salari village in West Kameng district on Monday with pomp and gaiety.
“Chik Saibu, one of the most important festivals as well as rituals to appease and seek eternal blessings from supreme deity Phu Khromse, is celebrated for six days by Dunglen, Rokpu and Chanadok clans of the Sartang tribe of the village,” said Lobsang Tsering.
The village has 12 priests, who are called chobji and play a vital role in performing the weeklong rituals as intermediaries between humans and deities. Phu Khromse, the mountain deity, is placed above all sacred rungs. The deity is considered a protector and a saviour.
During the festival, the people seek blessings for a surplus harvest and protection against natural calamities and epidemics.