लो मोंथान्ग्बता

Sorry, All, for not keeping my blog while I was away! Lo Monthang was just beginning to get it's daily allowance of four hours of electricity per evening while I was there, but internet is scarce in the region! Many postings, photos, songs and video to come when I return to the States in a few days, but for now I'll leave you with some lyrics.

TSE LUN PUMBA

This song is sung at festivals and during marriage, and is offered to the Lamas, Kings, and household heads. Many of the songs follow this format, saluting the layers of social hierarchy in the region through the verses.

From the center of the sky shines a golden pitcher.
Kept in the pitcher are precious jewels --
We will offer these to the Lama.
Outside the pitcher is the brilliant sun --
We will offer the sun rays to the laity.
Us Woman of Lo Monthang,
We tighten our boot laces to salute the Lama!

From the center of the sky shines a golden pitcher.
Kept in the pitcher are precious jewels --
We will offer these to the King.
Outside the pitcher is the brilliant sun --
We will offer the sun rays to the laity.
Us Woman of Lo Monthang,
We tighten our boot laces to salute the King!

From the center of the sky shines a golden pitcher.
Kept in the pitcher are precious jewels --
We will offer these to the Fathers.
Outside the pitcher is the brilliant sun --
We will offer the sun rays to the laity.
Us Woman of Lo Monthang,
We tighten our boot laces to salute the Lama!

SANG LADAKH YUSANG LUMBA:  

(This song is sung at festivals and weddings, it and songs like it demonstrate the history of trade between Lo, China and Ladakh).

Ladakh to Mustang is very far.
But if your mind has a good purpose, it seems close.
You can climb the Chu Lhagne Hill between them.
And when you have completed your journey,
Just think you will come back home happily.
Because distance is not so great when your heart is close to home!

In the Ladakhi Mountains, I searched for herbal medicines.
But I didn't find these medicines -- instead, I met a goddess.
At the start of my journey I offered her a katakh.
And afterwards I offered another to the great King of Lo.
It was only then that my work was complete.
Because distance is not so great when your heart is close to home!