The three-day annual Punakha Domche ended today with Nob Chu Shag Ni or the symbolic immersion of one of Bhutan’s most sacred relics, Rangjung Kharsa Pani, into the Mochhu. It was was presided over by Tshogi Lopen, Dorji Rinchen, of the Zhung Dratshang.
The Punakha Domche is dedicated to the Country’s guardian deities, Mahakala and Pelden Lhamo.
It also commemorates Zhambdrung Ngawang Namgyel’s victory over the Tibetan invasions. The highlight of the festival is the re-enactment of a 17th century battle scene in which the Tibetan armies invade Bhutan to seize the scared relic, Rangjung Kharsarpani.
Zhabdrung is believed to have outwitted the Tibetans by pretending to throw the relic into the Mochhu, leading to Tibetan armies’ withdrawal.
Rangjung Kharsarpani, the self-created image of Chenrezig, is one of Bhutan’s most sacred treasures. It was brought to Bhutan by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in the 17th century.
Thousands of people including tourists flocked to Punakha Dzong to witness the festival.
