Bhutan tradition and culture
Bhutan has managed to guard itself from any kind of cultural contamination and has successfully well preserved the age old culture and heritage that dates directly back to the mid-17th century. Ancient Bhutanese culture is not a relic of the past as it has helped to shape the modern culture of Bhutan.
“Driglamnamza” is the term used for describing the preservation of Bhutan tradition and culture. It signifies manner and etiquette what an individual should eat, talk, wear and how-to bow down before the government officials and the clergy. In1990 the people were asked to work in accordance with the Driglamnamza. Lhotsampas, who originated from Nepal, stood against imposition of Driglamnamza.
Ethnic Groups:
There are three essential ethnic groups in Bhutan – the Sharchop in the east, who have tribal roots in northern Burma and northeastern India. Secondly, the Ngalops, who migrated from Tibet and introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. And the Nepalese Lhotsampas in the south.
Religion of Bhutan:
The official religion of Bhutan is the tantric structure of Mahayana Buddhism. It is considered to be a salient feature in the development of the Bhutanese society. Sacred and holy words are inscribed on the flags that are usually hoisted on top of the hills and high passes.
National dress:
Usually men in Bhutan wear a knee length robe and the waist is tied with a belt and this attire is called a “gho“. The women wear ankle length skirt along with a short jacket called “Kira.” In order to avoid the contamination of the western influence the Bhutanese government has made it mandatory to wear their national dress in public.
Staple diet of Bhutan:
Rice and Chilies are considered to be the staple diet of Bhutanese. The people from this particular country consider chilies apart of vegetables instead of a spice. They usually eat meats like pork, radish that is mixed with meat and vegetables after drying it. “Ema datse,” is considered to be a delicacy in Bhutan and it is prepared with chilies and cheese.
To learn more about Driglamnamza, an individual can enlighten oneself more in depth ideally by visiting Bhutan.
