Bhutan is the last bastion of the Mahayana form of
Buddhism in the world today. It was in the 8th
century AD that Guru Padma Sambhava introduced
Buddhism to the country. Subsequently this was
promulgated by various other religious figures who
visited Bhutan. The dominant sect that came to be
established in the country was the Drukpa Kargyu
sect of Mahayana Buddhism, which is now the official
religion of Bhutan.
The Bhutanese are very pious people and religion
plays an important part of their daily lives. Prayer
flags fluttering in the wind, chortens (stupas),
monasteries and twirling prayer wheels are a very
common sight. Religion permeates all strands of
secular life and this has brought about a reverence
for the land and its well-being. Religious festivals
known as 'Tsechus' and 'Dromchoes' symbolizing
amity, peace and compassion, are held annually at
various parts of the kingdom at different times of
the year. These colorful festivals are a time for
the people from various walks of life to congregate
dressed in all their finery. The most popular
festivals are Paro Tsechu (March/April), Thimphu
Tsechu (September/October) and in Bumthang
(October). During the festival, rare and sacred
masked dances, sword dances and many rituals are
performed. |