Unlike other districts, this year’s celebration of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s Birth Anniversary in Gelephu took a unique cultural turn. Residents marked the special day with Tomza, food lovingly packed in tohras or cloth. It is a symbolic gesture to honor His Majesty’s emphasis on cultural preservation, one of the four pillars of Gross National Happiness.
The melody of devotion fills the air at the Gelephu Public Ground as hundreds gather to celebrate the birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.
In their finest ghos and kiras, people from all walks of life joined the celebration, singing, dancing, and expressing their heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty through cultural performances and programmes.
But what made this year’s celebration in Sarpang truly unique was Tomza, food packed in tohras and Bangchungs, brought from home and shared with others.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang Dzongrab said, “One of the pillars of GNH introduced by the great Fourth is cultural preservation. We thought of paying our respect to His Majesty by celebrating this way, and also teaching our younger generations about Tomza culture that has been there for ages.”
Officials and residents from nearby gewogs, thromde, dzongkhag offices, and schools, all brought food from their homes displaying and sharing in a spirit of togetherness and gratitude.
Nima, a resident said, “It’s a very different experience this time, bringing our own packed lunches in the form of Tomza and having it among the people in front of His Majesty’s portrait. It feels wonderful to share a meal with friends and family like this.”
Sonam Drakpa, another resident said, “I’ve lived in Gelephu for 25 years, but I’ve never been part of such a celebration before. Today I’m really happy and proud to join, and I wish His Majesty good health and long life.”
Filled with music, food, and laughter, the celebration brought the community closer, blending festivity with a deeper cultural meaning. Officials say they plan to continue the Tomza tradition in future events as well.
Passang Dorji
