Getting the blessings of the mountain Goddess

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Yesterday, we had our Puja, the religious ceremony without which none of the Sherpas will set foot on the mountain. The ceremony began just before 8am and involves chanting, offerings of rice, Tibetan bread, Yak butter, beer, whiskey, Chang (Sherpa home brew) and the burning of juniper all around a stone Chorten (a kind of square monument) from the top of which flow colorful prayer flags.

All the climbers brought their axes, crampons and helmets to be blessed which involves them being placed next to the chorten and smeared with yak butter.

After about an hour of chanting and throwing rice onto the chorten the ceremony was complete and much Chang, whiskey and tins of beer were passed around by the Sherpas.

Then the singing and dancing began. Nigel got the guitar and we sang a Sherpa song then one of our songs etc

By about midday and more chang than I care to recall I was feeling a little tired and emotional. The Sherpas exemplified themselves by helping me back to my tent where I was glad of an afternoon snooze.

The impromptu rest day was continued by the showing of The Incredibles, Love Actually and then Star Wars Episode IV after dinner in the mess tent.

Comments on this article

By: John Spencer	When: 16th Apr 2007 21:32
I guess the thing about BC Everest is the various yaks, sherpas and buddist priests are not in any way awaiting around the courner with a brick in a sock attempting to liberate the contents of your wallet. Unlike the less desireable citezens of Barsa

By: Ruth	When: 16th Apr 2007 11:18
Tired and emotional??? lol Photo looks awesome. Nana says hi take care xx

By: Joseph Spencer	When: 15th Apr 2007 15:58
Ye should be careful and come back in one piece

By: Roisin Ni Mhuircheartaigh	When: 13th Apr 2007 19:56
Hi Roger, beautiful photo of the Puja. We're all thinking of you here in the Rotunda & v proud. Good taste in rest day movies, take care, Roisin

By: David Hillebrandt	When: 12th Apr 2007 13:04
At least the environs of BC Everest are safer than the back streets of Barcelona when returning to one's bed. Dave

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