A water prayer wheel or chukor mani in Chhoekhor Gewog, Bumthang has become an issue of safety after falling into a state of shabbiness.
The chukor mani in Jakar-Kashing-Tshawa village used to be a resting point for people travelling to Trongsa via Bumthang in the past. Although, it is not known how old the chukor mani is, locals tell stories of the second Druk Gyalpo having used the same trail.
The water prayer wheel has, unfortunately, fallen into disrepair. Its roof looks as if it will collapse any moment and its base has developed cracks. The chukor mani’s wood is also decaying.
After the recent windstorm, locals and students, who use the chukor mani path, are worried about their safety.
“The chukor mani has been here for a very long time, but it has been at least twelve years since it has been renovated. Children play nearby, and if there is strong wind or earthquake, it could be dangerous. We are hoping that the government will look into renovating it, said Kunzang Dorji, of Chhoekhor, Bumthang.
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Locals had considered demolishing the chukor mani, but had stopped when they found out it was a national heritage. They said they did not want to interfere with the mani’s renovation as it was government property. Locals maintain that they will need to dismantle the Mani if the dzongkhag does not renovate it.
The Dzongkhag Cultural Officer, Bumthang, Shacha Gyeltshen, said there are many such renovations to be done in the dzongkhag. “We are doing detailed studies. We also have some budget for the renovation of such chortens, and lhakhangs… There is no question of dismantling the chukor mani. We should preserve it for its history and importance.”
With more than Nu.500,000 set aside for chorten and lhakhang renovation in the dzongkhag, locals are hopeful that the renovation will happen soon.
