After more than a decade without a proper temple, Daga Gewog’s Sili-Tasha Chiwog in Wangdue Phodrang is finally getting a new one. The temple, believed to have been founded by Chizhi Lam in the 17th century, was not only small but also suffered damage from earthquakes.
The construction began about three years ago. Today, almost 70 percent of the work is complete.
The government has already spent more than Nu 5 M, but it is not enough.
The progress has been slow. The gewog is helpless. They cannot spend more than 10 per cent of the annual grant on such activities.
“Raising donations and contributions has also become challenging, as the number of donors is gradually declining due to the increasing number of fundraising requests. This is the main reason why the construction of our temple is taking time,” said Kinga, Daga Gup, Wangdue Phodrang.
The gup said they may require at least Nu 3 M more.
“Our people have been asking about the delay in the construction. All religious activities are supposed to be conducted here. So, we are currently facing difficulties. However, once the construction is complete, it will greatly benefit the public,” said Tenzin Namgay, Former Lam Neten, Project Coordinator.
The project is now hoping for donations to complete the work by next year, benefitting more than 80 households. For the people of Sili-Tasha, the new temple is more than just a structure; it’s a long-awaited symbol of spiritual and community revival.
Changa Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
