The first Bhutan Folk Festival

January 14, 2009 · Filed Under News & Press 

The Tourism industry initiated the first Bhutan Folk Festival which was held in Leki Thang, Punakha for 3 days from the 13th – 15th December, 2008. His Royal Highness Dasho Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck graced the opening of the festival as the chief guest. Much was achieved with participants genuinely showcasing what we call “the Bhutanese folk life!” It showcased various traditional and cultural activities, from sports to arts and crafts with competitions held on measuring rice, pounding rice, grinding maize, etc., using traditional implements. Visitors also witnessed bull and wrist fights. A Kangjur Lingkor was held on the last day. Visitors also participated in the event and carried the Buddhist religious texts as done in villages.

The tourism industry is prioritized as one of the growth engines of Bhutan with huge expectations from both the government and the citizens for the industry to contribute culturally, environmentally and economically. With the introduction of the Bhutan Folk Festival that is hoped to be held annually in different Dzongkhags, the tourism industry hopes to fulfil some of these expectations.
Visitors who had been to the Festival and who saw or heard about it in the media share varied views on the Festival. Some thought the festival was solely for tourists while others felt it was to provide economic benefits to the local people. Several visitors felt it was to create awareness among the Bhutanese and to learn and understand our values. Quite a few said it was to promote our cultural and natural heritage thus conserving and preserving our heritage. All these views hold true and more. The general feedback was that such festivals should be carried out on a regular basis.


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