Itanagar, May 23 (Reporter) The Indian Army joined the locals in Tawang to celebrate the Buddha Purnima at remote Taktsang village Gompa near the serene Sangestar Lake in the border district of Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. The celebrations of Buddha Purnima were marked by religious and festive fervour, care and compassion for elders and respect for the environment true to the ethos of Indian Buddhism, reaffirming the civil-military bonhomie in the area, official sources said. Taktsang Gompa is one of the three locations where Guru Padmasambhava meditated with his spiritual consort Monmo Tashi Khewdey, who was in the manifestation of a Tigress, hence the name Tak-Tsang or 'Tiger's Nest'. This beautiful Gompa, perched in the wilderness of mountains at an altitude of 12,500 feet, is revered by locals and visited by thousands of tourists who visit Tawang every year. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava or Lopon Pema Jungne, the Lotus born guru, a teacher from the famous ancient Nalanda University meditated here prior to moving on to Tibet for spreading Buddhism. Aimed to foster goodwill, promote community welfare, and strengthen ties between the Army and local residents, the Indian Army organized a series of events to celebrate Buddha Purnima in Taktsang village. The celebration commenced with a comprehensive medical camp, where healthcare professionals provided free medical check-ups, consultations and essential medicines to villagers. The camp aimed to address the healthcare needs of the community and ensure access to quality medical services. In the spirit of promoting physical fitness and camaraderie, a thrilling volleyball championship was held, drawing enthusiastic participation from local youth and fostering a sense of sportsmanship and unity. The festivities continued with a community lunch, offering a delightful array of local cuisines. This communal meal not only satisfied appetites but also strengthened bonds among villagers and Army personnel, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and mutual respect. In order to promote the rich cultural history and religious tourism, the Indian Army also presented various infrastructures in the village to include a community shed. To promote education and fitness among youth, equipment for IT lab and play way equipment were also presented. A highlight of the day was the stirring performance by the Indian Army band. Their musical display captivated the audience, blending traditional and contemporary tunes, and reflecting the harmony and discipline of the Armed Forces. The band's performance was met with resounding applause and admiration. The celebration concluded with a vibrant cultural program featuring local traditional dances, songs, and theatrical performances highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the region, the sources added...////...