Buddhism in Bhutan is a way of life where prayers permeate every occasion or activity. And the great prayer of the Monlam Chhenmo is revered as the king of all prayers. The prayer has its centuries-old roots in India and presently lives on at Bodhgaya or Dorji Dhen in Bihar,...
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal unified Bhutan as a nation state and he was the one who gave Bhutan and its people the distinct cultural identity that distinguishes the country from the rest of the world. During the 17th century, Tibetan forces seeking to seize a very precious relic, the Ranjung Kharsapani,...
Unique and Artistic wouldn’t be off track in saying that Bhutanese architecture offers the best lesson in architectural combination and integration. Above everything else, it offers a fine, delicate balance between ecological setting, culture, architecture and art. Be it a farmhouse, a city building or a Dzong, the same architectural...
The phallus, for centuries, has had the most loyal following in Bhutan. Picture Caption: dementievskiy The Bhutanese believe that the phallus is a symbol of vigor and therefore aids in fertility. They also believe that the phallus chases away malicious gossip and offers protection from evil. It is painted on...
Monasteries the word over have a long tradition of hospitality. Since time immemorial, weary travelers have found them to be places of solace and safety. This tradition is now dying out. Picture Courtesy: Unma Desai Indeed, very few people realize that in our frantic lives, monasteries offer much needed respite...
