Bumchu, literally means a 'sacred pot', is a Buddhist festival celebrated at
Tashiding Monastery, in
Sikkim. Dating back to 1700 AD, this festival falls on the 15th day of first Tibetan calendar year (January-February).
The highlight of the festival is a pot containing holy water and the level of the water in the pot prophesies the events of the forth coming year. If the water is to the brim, it indicates bloodshed and disturbances and if the pot is almost dry, it indicates famine. A half full pot is regarded as the symbol of peace and prosperity.
A part of the holy water is distributed among the devotees. The pot is then replenished with water and sealed at the end of the festival. This pot is opened only in next Bumchu festival.
