Origins of the Bumchu (bum chu) of Drakar Tashiding (brag dkar bkra shis sdings)

According to Sikkimese cultural and religious history as related in old anecdotal accounts, Buddhism was introdueced in Sikkim in the eighth century AD. The land was then blessed by Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), who personally consecrated many of Sikkim's sacred landmarks and blessed Drakar Tashiding as the land's spiritual centre. The article seeks to provide a brief historical and leendary account of the Bumchu, the blessed water vase ritual of Tashiding, and its meaning. The Bumchu celebration is held on the 15th day of the first lunar month and is one of Sikkim's most important events, annually attracting thousands of pilgrims from Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and abroad wishing to participate in the rituals.