Coinciding with the national day celebrations yesterday, two veteran singers from the time of third Druk Gyalpo were honoured at a ceremony presided over by Her Royal Highness Ashi Deki Yangzom Wangchuck.
Her Royal Highness presented Aum Tshewang Lhamo and Ap Tsheten Dorji with the “Druk Norbu,” a lifelong musical award.
Aum Tshewang Lham is from Khangkhu in Paro. She made her name as a singer during the reign of the third Druk Gyalpo. As her name and fame spread, she pioneered the conservation of Bhutanese culture and music. Even today she guides children and dzongkhag dancers in traditional Bhutanese song and dance forms.
Ap Tsheten Dorji served as a court dancer and singer during the time of the third Druk Gyalpo. A versatile singer and dancer, he focused on the promotion of Boedra, composing over 40 popular traditional songs in this genre.
The award ceremony was organised by the Music of Bhutan Research Centre and the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs.
