Festivals in
Bhutan
Festivals in Bhutan takes place at different times of
year, regarding to place to place. “Tshechu” known to the localities of Bhutan for
festival, comes in a form of religious activities, and the time when people
gather, with their best attires. Festivals are celebrated on 10th Day of
particular month, so the name “Tshechu” was derived, (“Tshe” means Date and
“Chu” means 10).
Tshechu festivals are celebrated for
several days ranging from minimum of three days to five days, according to
their location. One would be able to view and witness Bhutanese Focal Dances,
religious dance, Mask Dances known as “Chaam”, and other religious dramas and
epics of great known saint of Buddhism. These dances are performed by Monks,
laymen and few dances by students of RAPA (Royal Academy of Performing Arts).
Atsara are clowns, with their
expressive masks and postures, are an indispensable element in any religious
festival. They confront the monks, toss out salacious jokes, and distract the
crowd with their antics when the religious dances begin to grow tedious.
Believed to represent Acharyas (religious masters of India) they are the only
people permitted to mock religion in a society where sacred matters are treated
with the highest respect. For a few days these popular entertainers are allowed
the freedom to express a formulaic challenge within an established framework
that does not, however upset the social and religious order.
Some tshechus end with the displaying
of a huge appliqué thangkha (scroll) called “Thongdroel”. The Thongdroel is
unveiled at first light to bring enlightenment to all who view it. The faithful
believe that by simply viewing this Thongdroel, they can be delivered from the
cycle of reincarnations,
For the Bhutanese, religious festivals
offer an opportunity to become immersed in the meaning of their religion and
gain much merit. They are also occasions for seeing people, and for being seen,
for social exchanges, and for flaunting success. People bring out their finest
clothes, their most beautiful jewelries, and go for picnic with abundant
alcohol and meat. Men and women joke and flirt. An atmosphere of convivial,
slightly ribald good humor prevails.
