Mask dances during tshechus are usually performed by monks or trained mask dancers. However, over the years, some tshechus, especially those performed in the villages have been facing a shortage of mask dancers. In some places, if the villagers are lucky enough to keep the tradition going, youths come forward to address the shortage by getting trained to perform the mask dances. Similarly, in Pema Gatshel, the issue of not having enough mask dancers to perform during the Nangkor Tshechu has been addressed. Thanks to a group of students who stepped forward to learn the mask dances.
The students, some as young as 10, dressed in white skirts over their ghos are rehearsing to perform at the Nangkor Tshechu.
They are practising, guided by experienced elders. They get paid a nominal charge for volunteering to address the mask dancers’ shortage.
This has been happening since 2018 when the schedule of the village tshechu was changed from autumn to winter.
“I feel different when we are allowed to perform the mask dances. It is an event where we can accumulate merit and clear our obstacles. I am interested in such activities.” said Pema Dorji, a student from Shumar Gewog.
“Performing such mask dances preserves our culture. So, I am very excited to take part in it. Secondly, for students like us, we can also earn some cash during winter break,” said Tenzin Dorji, also a student from Shumar Gewog.
During the four-day annual Nangkor Tshechu, the villagers gather, dressed in their finest traditional attires to witness the mask dances and other cultural performances.
It is also the time for the students, now transformed into confident performers, to showcase their skills and the rich culture.
Shumar Gup Sonam Dhendup said, “Firstly, it was started to preserve our culture and also to promote it. Secondly, it somehow provided the youths with the opportunity to engage meaningfully during their holidays.”
Tenzin Dorji said, “I would also like to teach the mask dances to our friends. And I would like to come back and take part after completing my studies too.”
“I have never noticed any schools having mask dance clubs. But we have this club in our institute. So, in the future, if I get an opportunity to become a teacher, I would like to establish such a club and promote our culture,” said Pema Dorji.
Thanks to the dedication of these talented students, Nangkor Tshechu continue to be a grand celebration that attracts people from far and near.
The annual tshechu of Nangkor village was established in 1987 and performed at Wongmin Khache Chogling Lhakhang
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Phub Gyem
