| Description |
The literal meaning of Chib-drel is ‘the procession led by the riding horse’. It is the traditional way of receiving important dignitaries as a gesture of honour and respect appropriate to their positions and importance. Such dignitaries range from heads of state to religious heads and high-ranking officials. The procession comprises monks equipped with their traditional orchestral instruments, namely trumpets, clarinets, drums and cymbals, which they play as they walk. The procession also includes a number of other participants such as Pacham (hero dancers) and folk dancers in traditional costume, persons carrying auspicious symbols and substances, people carrying flags associated with deities, and a hierarchy of officials, bodyguards and attendants. |
| Social and cultural significance |
Depending upon the importance of the occasion and rank of the dignitary, Chib-drel is organised at three levels: elaborate (Gyepa), average (Dring), and abbreviated (Duepa). During the chibdre procession for state level dignitaries, a separate group of monks on the rooftop performs
serdreng (reception), a ceremonious fanfare of trumpets, cymbals and other religious instruments, as an accompaniment. Ser-dreng symbolises an offering to the ears of the gods and goddesses. It is believed that it is the accumulated merits of the dignitary being received that make him
worthy of such a high honour. |
| Transmission method |
Coordinated and prepared by designated officials such as District Culture Officers, Culture Coordinators and Officials nominated from the Driglam (Etiquette) Division under the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development, Ministry of Home Affairs. Proceedings are well documented in from of etiquette books and videos for guidance. |
| Community |
Conducted during the ceremonies in all the districts and communities.
Data collected by: Mr. Gengop Karchung, NLAB |
