| Description |
Lhaboen is performed in the villages of Taktse and Eusa, Drakten gewog under Trongsa. In Dzongkhag (National language) ‘Lha’ stands for deity or god and ‘boen’ for “Bon”. During Lhaboen the people perform rituals to summon their local deities Yueltsen Dorji Draktsen, Menmo Trashi Wangzom and Lhachen Wodhey Gungyel to their village inside the Lhachim (Temporary house prepared for the deities). The people express the words of gratitude for constantly guiding them and protecting them from all the ill effects of disasters and calamities.
The important event is carried out every year where all the people congregate to pray for the wellbeing of its people, animals and crops. The main performer is the phajo accompanied by the elderly people of the village. The women dances, children and other villagers enjoys the day. The 3-day Lhaboen festival is performed annually. The main purpose of the festival is to bring peace, harmony, foster good fortune, and fulfil the desired wishes of the people in the community.
In the past people used to please their dieties by offering fresh meat from the slaughtered cows or ox which is now replaced by the meat available in the meat shop. The community stopped slaughtering of animals long time back.
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| Social and cultural significance |
Lhaboen is celebtated in the two villages for 3 days. The young and active members from the family travel to the so called ‘deities place’, four hours walk up the hills. Upon reaching the destination, they perform rituals, offer sang, serkem and usher the deities to the village along with them by dancing and singing songs.
Not only the occasion is for paying homage to the deities but also, it’s a gathering for all the people to spend their time and enjoy together. Through the program it connects people and strengthen their relationship.
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| Transmission method |
The event involves all the village people including younger generations which helps them to uphold their unique culture and preserve it. However, there is chance that the culture may disappear with time as the young people are not interested to take and learn the role of Phajo. |
| Community |
The people of two villages, Taktse and Eusa come together to celebrate the occasion. Each household contributes an equal share of required items (rice, chilli, butter, money etc.) for the three day programme. The ritual is presided over by the Phajo (Shaman). However, the people are worried that the practice may disappear down the line when the Phajo ages.
Data collected by: Ms. Kelzang Delkar, Teacher, Taktse Higher Secondary School, Trongsa |
