Thousands dressed in their best gathered at the Trashichhodzong to witness the annual Thimphu Lhamoi Domchoe, yesterday. Lhamoi Tshomi Kuncham was the main mask dance performed by monks of the Central Monastic Body. It is dedicated to Pelden Lhamo, the protecting deity of Bhutan.
It was instituted by Je Kuenga Gyaltshen, the first reincarnation of Jampel Dorji, the son of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Legend has it, that Pelden Lhamo appeared before Je Kinga Gyeltshen while he was meditating and performed the dance.
Domchoe has been performed for over 300 years now. The Domchoe will be followed by a three-day annual Thimphu Tshechu next week.