Thousands gathered at the Tendrelthang in Tashichhodzong to witness the first day of the annual Thimphu Tshechu. Dressed in their finest Ghos and Kiras, people from in and around Thimphu and tourists were seen enjoying the festive atmosphere. The tshechu ended on Sunday.
It drizzled for some part of the day, but spectators braved the rain and the sun to receive blessings from the sacred mask dances.
The day featured various mask dances such as Pholay Molay, Zhana Cham and the renowned Drametse Nga Cham. Other cultural dances were also performed.
People of all ages expressed their joy for being part of the tshechu.
“I am slightly mesmerised by the way you celebrate your culture and tradition. This is a different world for us. I tried to do my best to show my appreciation for the culture and history here by buying this Gho,” said Sicco Van Der Laan, a tourist from the Netherlands.
“I came from Chapcha at 7:30 in the morning and I got here at around 9:30. I was so excited to watch the festival that I could not sleep the whole night. I will watch the tshechu tomorrow as well as the day after tomorrow,” said Zam, Chhukha.
“Kuzuzangpo la! I am much honoured to be here at the Thimphu festival. It is very emotional and after three days, I already love Bhutan. I am looking forward to coming back soon,” said Oli Paatz, a tourist from Germany.
“I am very happy to be part of the first day of the tshechu and I am also happy to wear this traditional Gho. I am looking forward to the celebration,” said Casper Bode Witz, a tourist from the Netherlands.
“This is my second day at the tsechu. I came to watch the tshechu and to pray for all the sentient beings,” said Jigme Wangchuk, Thimphu.
“I came to watch the festival with my parents and I am very happy. I pray and I hope to watch the festival till the last day,” said Milla Yesheey Gyeltsheen, Thimphu.
“The dancers are very beautifully dressed. They have different designs and different activities, which are very interesting and informative,” said Doristan, a tourist from Malaysia.
“This is my first time watching this festival and I have been looking forward to coming here. I am happy that I came here with my friends today,” said Thinley Nidup, Thimphu.
The festival will resume tomorrow with Durda Cham, Tum Ngam Cham, Raksha Cham, and Raksha Nga Cham.
Shinjay Choegi Gyab or the lord of death will also be displayed for the public to receive blessings.
The three-day festival holds deep significance for the Bhutanese people. For Buddhist followers, it serves as an opportunity to reflect, cleanse themselves of bad karma, and find renewed purpose in their lives.
Namgay Dema & Phub Dorji
