In a colorful spectacle of tradition and spirituality, the annual monastic festival, 'Spituk Gustor,' unfolded over two days, January 9 and 10, at Spituk Monastery. This centuries-old celebration, dating back to the 11th century, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and takes place on the 28th and 29th days of the 11th month of the Tibetan calendar annually.

The festival encompasses prayers and rituals aimed at warding off infectious diseases, purifying surroundings, ushering in prosperity, and invoking timely rainfall and snowfall. Thousands of devoted onlookers witnessed mesmerizing mask dance performances, each mask and costume holding symbolic significance tied to various deities and animals of Buddhist mythology. Among the notable performances was the mask dance dedicated to Paldan Lamo, a powerful female protector of the realm.

On the concluding day of the festival, effigies crafted from flours, woods, and paper were burned, symbolizing the elimination of negativities and ushering in a fresh start.

Historical Significance of Spituk Gompa:

Founded in the 11th century by Od-De, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub-od, Spituk Gompa derives its name from a prediction made by Lama Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo. He foresaw the rise of an exemplary religious community at the site. Initially following the Kadampa school, Spituk Gompa transitioned to the Geluk pa order during the reign of Gragspa Bumde. The monastery houses a remarkable collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and exquisite Thangkhas (cloth paintings). Atop the hill stands the Mahakala Temple, home to the shrine of Vajrabhairava, whose formidable visage is revealed only during the annual January festival.

Over time, Spituk Gompa transformed a red hat institution to being taken over by yellow hat sects in the 15th century. Noteworthy features include a statue of the female Bodhisattva Tara, also known as Dolma, housed in the Dolma Lhakhang or the Temple of Tara.