Although Bhutan is a small country, its cultural diversity and richness are profound. The culture and tradition being very unique in so many ways is a pride of every Bhutanese and this is what is bewitching to the foreigners.
In the 21st century where the countries are caught in the race of development and modernization it has been a challenge to withhold ones culture and tradition. Every global community come across inevitable changes in many ways and Bhutan is not an exception. Bhutan, however, has the pride in safeguarding and promoting our culture and tradition commendably. Everything of Bhutan’s culture is still imbedded in the traditional and conventional practices including social and cultural values, customary actions and beliefs about dress, language, eating habits, marriage, arts and craft, celebrations and festivals.
One of the most distinctive features of the Bhutanese is their traditional dress which is contemplated to be the true identity and tradition of Bhutan. Also, the striking aspect of Bhutan’s culture is overtly reflected in the living existence of our architecture. The traditional dress is a unique garment that have evolved over hundreds of years. Men and boys wear the Gho, a long robe hitched up to the knees tied at the waist by a traditional belt known as Kera and with a pouch at the front traditionally used for carrying bowls and small daggers. Women and girls wear the Kira, an ankle-length dress somewhat resembling a Kimono accompanied by a light outer jacket known as Tego with an inner layer of a thin fabric known as Wonju.
The sumptuous and flamboyant religious festivals are also the integral aspect of Bhutan’s culture, it flaunts the cultural diversity and its richness. The unique festivals are observed in almost every village annually to celebrate and be blessed.
This is one event where we get to see the general populace dress in their finest traditional dress designed intricately especially for such occasions. We could also witness the true Bhutanese families immersing themselves in joy and sharing the common goal to celebrate and be blessed by varied performances of mask dances and traditional dances with good spirits.