Bhutan is a country of festivals. The most important are the religious dance festivals, known as Tsechus, which are held in different districts, at specific times during the year. The Tsechus are celebrated for three to five days. These festivals which are held in honour of Guru Rinpoche commemorate his great deeds. Dances which have deep religious significance, especially in the tantric context are performed. Some important Dzongs (fortresses) have a festival called Dromche, held in honour of Yeshe Gompo
(Mahakala) or Palden Lhama (Mahakali) – the two main protective deities of the Drukpas.
Rare masked and sword dances and other rituals are performed in the courtyards and temples of the Dzongs. The origin of most of the dances can be traced beyond the Middle Ages and are only performed once or twice a year. Each dance has its own significance and is performed by monks and villagers dressed in bright costumes.
Many visitors come to Bhutan to witness these festivals held annually throughout the country. The most popular for tourists are those held in Paro during spring, Thimphu and Bumthang in autumn. The Tsechus are important religious festivals and it is believed that by attending them one gains merits and blessings. They are not somber formal religious affairs, but occasions to get together, renew acquaintances and make merry. The atsaras (traditional clowns of the Tsechu) add colours and merriment to the festival by their bawdy antics.
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Festival dates for 2007.
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