While rural-urban migration has left many villages across the country struggling with a shortage of manpower, especially for cultural activities, the story is quite different for Tangsibi Chiwog in Bumthang. Residents here say their traditions continue to flourish with strong community participation.
At Dechenling Lhakhang, the community is observing its annual tshechu, locally known as Tangsibi Mani.
Locals regard the festival as sacred and believe it is among the oldest festivals in the district.
During the tshechu, residents perform sacred mask dances and traditional folk dances composed by the revered terton, Terton Sherab Mebar.
Despite being a small community with around 350 residents, local leaders say they do not face a shortage of performers. Participants of all ages, young and old, take part in both mask and folk dances during the festival.
Tangsibi Tshogpa Pema Wangchen said, “Although our village is small, many youths who have completed Class 10 and 12 choose to remain in the village. Because of this, we do not face a shortage of masks or folk dancers. In fact, the number of households is increasing compared to the past, which is very encouraging for us.”
Residents say they are also improving the costumes of performers and welcoming more visitors to witness the tshechu. They believe such efforts help strengthen and promote their cultural heritage within the community.
Unique to both the community and the country, Tangsibi Mani was founded by Terton Sherab Mebar in the 14th century and is observed in the first month of the Bhutanese calendar.
Chimi Dorji, a resident said, “We have three sacred mask dances here. I have not heard of these dances being performed in other districts. According to our belief, this tshechu was established more than 700 years ago.”
The festival concludes with the unfurling of the sacred Thongdrel and the display of holy relics to the public.
In a time when many rural communities struggle to sustain traditions, the people of Tangsibi continue to keep theirs alive through faith, participation and a strong sense of community.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
Edited by Sangay Chezom
