Traditional archery was once a widely played and preserved sport in the country. However, with the introduction of compound bows, the popularity of traditional archery is gradually declining. Today, it is rare to see people playing traditional archery compared to the compound bow game. In response, communities in Wangdue Phodrang are working to revive and preserve this cultural tradition by organizing regular matches.
Mani, a 67-year-old from Phangyuel village, is in his second day of playing a traditional archery match with his friends. After participating in a match in Nyisho Gewog, he now plays in Phangyuel Gewog.
Despite his age, Mani enthusiastically competes alongside his younger friends, even setting aside his home duties for the game. While he was once a sharp shooter in his youth, he admits his aim has deteriorated with age.
He started playing traditional archery at 15, competing in various matches across districts in his younger years. Mani recalls the popularity of traditional archery back then but says its decline began with the arrival of the compound bow.
“During my childhood, we only played with traditional bows and arrows, and I was deeply interested in the sport. Unfortunately, this tradition faded over time. However, our younger generation is now helping to revive it. They listen to us, and I play with them to encourage their participation,” said Mani, an archery enthusiast, Kumchi-Phangyuel.
Traditional bows are made from bamboo, while compound bows are constructed from modern materials. Some people express disappointment over the decline of this age-old tradition.
“Traditional archery was very popular when I was a child, but interest shifted toward compound bows over time. This is why the traditions of our forefathers have slowly declined,” said Tshering, a resident, Kumchi-Phangyuel Chiwog.
“The compound bow became popular when I was around 30. As a result, traditional archery lost its prominence. Today, we host matches between gewogs and chiwogs to revive and preserve the tradition,” said Zeko, another resident, Gangjab, Nyisho Gewog.
The people of Wangdue Phodrang are playing traditional archery to elevate it at the same level as the modern compound bow game.
“I’m not interested in foreign games. I prefer traditional archery and ‘Doegor’. It’s crucial for the younger generation to preserve the traditions handed down by our ancestors. Otherwise, modern games will overshadow our culture,” said Jigme Samdrup, also a resident of Gangjab Chiwog, Nyisho Gewog.
“I play archery with both compound and traditional bows and arrows because it’s part of our culture. We are encouraging the younger generation to carry on this tradition. That’s why we, the older generation, have organised today’s match,” said Pemba, a resident of Gangjab, Nyisho Gewog.
According to the Phangyuel mangmi, the community is actively encouraging people to revive traditional archery and keep this cultural heritage alive.
“If we fail to preserve our age-old traditions as the country develops, our cultural heritage may become a mere memory. We may even have to look outside the country to rediscover our roots. And the Local Government Act mandates us to work towards cultural preservation,” said Kinley Dendup, Mangmi, Phangyuel Gewog.
As efforts to revive traditional archery grow in the locality, community members, young and old, are coming together not only to play but to reconnect with their heritage. Through these matches, they are passing down valuable skills, stories, and traditions, keeping alive the spirit of their ancestors.
Changa Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang
Edited by Kipchu
