Sisekpa Tangnam Grandly Celebrated in California

California, USA – The indigenous Limbu community of Nepal, currently residing in and around California, organized a grand celebration of their traditional festival Sisekpa Tangnam on July 27, 2025. The event was led by their community organization, Kirat Yakthung Chumlungo.

Sisekpa Tangnam is one of the four major festivals mentioned in the Limbu religious scripture Mundhum. It holds special significance in their daily life and culture. As part of the traditional ritual, people wake up early in the morning, collect thorny branches, herbs like nettle (sisnu), and leaves of wild plants from nearby forests, then tie them into long garlands using babiyo (local grass rope). These garlands are wrapped around the main entrance and walls of the house. The belief is that this act drives away sorrow, disease, and famine, bringing prosperity and well-being into the household.

The celebration took place at Berkeley Marina, near the world-renowned city of San Francisco. The event featured traditional Limbu games, the Kelang dance, and Hakpare Samlo singing. Holding hands, participants formed a large circle to perform the iconic Dhan Naach (rice harvest dance), reflecting their cultural vibrancy and unity.

The program was inaugurated by respected elder Tumyahang Santosh Kurungbang, founding president Roshan Libang, and social worker Saru Sawa, who together lit a ceremonial lamp (diya) at the shrine. The welcome speech was delivered by Bamu Suhang, and the significance of the festival was explained by Surendra Fombo.

Sports coordination was managed by Pratibha Subba, Somi Limbu, Bhim Limbu, Sumer Subba, and Kaman Banem. A welcome dance was performed by Unnati and Anwesha. Registration duties were handled by Kristy, Roshni, Tej, and Sirjana, while the program was hosted by Tank Fombo and Nabin Subba.

Distinguished guests included Tikaram Rai, President of United Kirat Rai Organization California; Dekendra Maske, Coordinator of Identity-Based Front California; Binod Magar from the Magar Society; Ang Chiring Sherpa from California Sherpa Association; and other community leaders such as Deb Kirat, Surya Karki, Ram Rai, Jor Rai, Nuren Baral, and Kavindra Sunuwar.

The president of Kirat Yakthung Chumlung, Atit Subba, expressed heartfelt thanks to all participating families, guests, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the event a success. He concluded the program by promising to reunite and celebrate even more grandly next year.