| Description |
Tshechu (literally means 10th day) is a religious event performed annually throughout Bhutan. It is an elaborate celebration where different kinds of mask dances are performed in commemorating its evolution ever since the 8th century by the great teacher Guru Rinpoche by transforming into wrathful manifestations who subdued malicious demons and evil forms to convert into follower and protector of Buddhist doctrines. Today, everyone in Bhutan believes that they should witness the mask dances to seek blessings and cleanse of accumulated sins with a spiritual mind. The above picture depicts a Tum 'Ngam (gtum rngam) Cham performed at Jakar annual festival in Bumthang, Bhutan. It is a wrathful form of dance of Guru Rinpoche and is only performed by monks. However, it is widely performed in dzongs all across the country. It was introduced by Tert n Pema 'Lingpa in 15th Century. It requires thirteen numbers of dancers to perform. |
