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GALLERY: culture

Thimphu Tshechu, 2000

Nikon N80, Nikorr AF 24mm 2.8D

Thimphu Tshechu, 2000

Nikon N80, Nikorr AF 105mm 2.8Dmicro

Thimphu Tshechu, 2000

Nikon N80, Nikorr AF 105mm 2.8Dmicro

Thimphu Tshechu, 2000

Nikon N80, Nikorr AF 105mm 2.8Dmicro

Thimphu Tshechu, 2000

Nikon N80, Nikorr AF 24mm 2.8D

Rock Painting of Guru Rimpoche
This is near Begana, about 10 kms north of Thimphu. The painting of Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava) seems to be part sculpture on the rock face. Guru Rimpoche introduced Buddhism into Bhutan in the 8th Century and is one of the most revered saints in Bhutan.

Nikon N60, Nikorr AF 28-70 3.5-5.6D

Closeup of Rock Painting of Guru Rimpoche
Buddhist devotion is expressed in many forms, and commissioning a religious work of art is a pious act (good for your karma). Many such religious works of art are anonymous, from sculptures to elaborate thangkas. I've seen a few rock paintings around the country, but this one is the most striking that I have come across.

Nikon N60, Nikorr AF 70-300 ED 4-5.6D

Deysho Drying
This is one of the last steps in making deysho (Bhutanese paper) - sun drying on silk screens. Deysho is made from the bark or two shrubs: Daphne known as Dey na (meaning "dark dey") and Edgeworthia known as Dey kaa (white dey). Deysho is still made by hand be it a household activity or a cottage industry.

The paper is unbleached and has a light brown/creamish colout. It is quite durable and makes good gift wrap (one common traditional use) and also for writing scriptures.

Sanyo LCD digital camera DSC-X110

Arrows
Handicraft items on sale at the sunday market in Thimphu. The bamboo arrows are the traditional arrows used in archery matches. The feathers are usually from the feathers of pheasants. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan but it differs from Olympic style archery. Teams shoot arrows at two targets placed about 100-150 meters apart. Archery matches are often times of merry making, with players and "cheer leaders" all contributing to the festive mood. In the rural areas, teams from different villages will often play during new year, or other holidays with plenty of food and alcohol flowing. More more recently, especially in the urban areas, teams are formed and compete with the imported compound bows.

Nikon N60, Nikorr AF 28-70 3.5-5.6D

Arrows

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