TIBETAN CULTURE : Gorshey - A Tibetan Dance

TIBETAN CULTURE

Gorshey - A Tibetan Dance

Written by Tenzin Palzom

    The Tibetan way of life is renowned for its rich heritage of treasured customs, exciting festivals, and distinctive dances. The circle dance, or gorshey, is the one that stands out the most from all the many dances that have been practiced for generations. This dance has a significant impact on Tibet's history and culture. During special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and other culturally-related programmes and events, this distinctive dance is partaken in.

    A group dance called gorshey is performed in a circular pattern. The traditional music that accompanies the dance is typically performed live (remember that there was no technology back then). Musical instruments such as drayen [the Tibetan guitar], damaru [a small drum] and the piwang [a stringed instrument] is used.

    Gorshey moves in a circular shape while using precise footwork. The dancers typically dress traditionally. Women wear chupas, while men wear chubas, which are long robes. The garment and robes' vibrant pattern and color contribute to the dance's vibrancy.

    According to legend, the dance first appeared in the 14th century, during the reign of Tibetan Guru Tsongkhapa*. It is said that monks used to do the dance as part of their devotion to their religious and spiritual guide. It gradually became an important aspect of Tibetan culture.
    *Lama Guru Tsongkhapa was alive from 1357 to 1419.

    Formerly, Gorshey was known as "Mera." Mera means Fire barrier. The dance was performed in Tibet, where the population used to be nomadic. Usually, there was a campfire in the center and the participants held hands to create a border. This is how Mera acquired its name. This dance was performed at night, when it was the coldest. They had jobs that kept them occupied in the morning and evening, including herding yaks, sheep, and other animals that nomads often do. They performed this dance to stay warm at night because they were constantly feeling cold.

    Not only is is beautiful and amusing, it also has a deeper significance. The circle represents the cycle of life and death, and holding hands represents the Tibetan people's oneness.

    Over time, Gorshey dance has gained popularity outside Tibet. Right now, it is conducted all over the world.  Lhakar is one of the main standing pillars that made Gorshey popular across the globe. Lhakar or White Wednesdays is an auspicious day to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. On Lhakar, Tibetan people show their devotion to their culture, religion, and their spiritual leader.  In Tibet, Lhakar was observed because of their lack of the right to religion, when China conquered Tibet and forbade them to continue practicing their culture and religion. This revolutionary act spread throughout the world and Tibetans across the nation came together to peruse their culture and religion. They performed gorshey every Lhakar. Tibetans could share their ideas and problems to other Tibetans. They could socialize with other Tibetans, learn more, and talk with older Tibetans who would share stories about Tibet. Most importantly, they could come together as one.

 

Tenzin Palzom.   

TIBETAN CULTURE SEASON

This month - April and a bit of May will be completely focused on the Tibetan culture. There will be a few posts in total and they will cover interesting aspects of Tibetans and their culture. Hope you enjoy!!

*This article was written by a friend of mine - Palzom. She is 12 years old and has been my friend for 5 years. She lives in India right now. She enjoys reading and is well read.  

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