Bhutan is cradled in the folds of the Himalayas that have relied on its geographical isolation as to protect itself from outside influences. It is also a sparsely populated country which is bordered by the India to the South, and then China to the North. But, Bhutan has maintained a long policy of strict isolation both culturally and economically, with the goal of preserving its cultural heritage and its independence. But in the last decades of the 20th century, the foreigners were allowed to visit the country in limited numbers. This is how Bhutan has successfully preserved its culture, which dates back to the mid-17th century.
Why is Bhutan the Worlds Happiest Country –
Bhutan, the world happiest country, is the last standing Buddhist Kingdom in the world. It has also preserved much of its culture since the 17th century by staying isolated from the world. It is hard to imagine that such a small country, the size of the Indiana, with the population that is tucked in the Himalayan Mountains, accessible only by two airplanes, is the “Happiest Country” in the world. it is also the fastest growing GDP’s in the world. Globally, Bhutan might be a small country, but yet the daily life in Bhutan holds a very strong identity. And unity of its rich cultural heritage is strongly promoted in the country by the Government.
The Land Of Thunder Dragon –
Cultural Facts & Bhutan Family Life
1. National Symbols of Bhutan:
Bhutan mythology is expressed in many different ways everywhere in the country which is striking. In Bhutanese mythology, the name Land of the Druk Yul literally means the land of the thunder dragon.
2. Architecture of Buddhism:
When you talk about Bhutan, you talk automatically about Buddhism. This is the religion of the country that is integrated in all aspects of the architecture. But typically, it is the degree of uniformity on all structures that corresponds with the traditional designs.
3. Bhutan Festivals and its Impression on All Visitors:
The colorful and the joyful festivals of Bhutan will leave a big impression on all the visitors. These festivals are very joyful & the local alcohol arra is drunk abundantly, all festivals are holy spiritual events and its attendees also believed to gain the merits for the next life.
4. Nationals Sports of Bhutan:
The National sport of Bhutan is Archery. Every village of Bhutan has its own archery range and every festival knows a high-spirited competition. This national tournament happens all through the year on local, inter-village and at the national level of sports.
5. Arts and Crafts, Bhutan’s Religiously Rooted Aspects:
The unique spirit and the identity of Bhutan are also reflected in the arts and crafts, which are all religiously rooted.
6. Traditional Dress of Bhutan:
The culture of Bhutan is very much alive and it is also expressed in everything, which include the traditional clothing the people have been wearing from decades. The traditional woven dresses are worn by both men and women on formal occasions, including office hours. And during informal occasions, the Bhutanese wear their best hand-woven clothes.
7. Food of Bhutan in Daily Life:
As for the ethnic diversity of the people, there is a certain ethnic diversity in the food of Bhutan. The Northern Indian food is often mixed with chilies. Apricots, mushrooms, asparagus and a variety of chilies and numerous spices are grown in abundance in nearly all the valleys. Chinese and Indian cuisine are cooked with beef, pork, chicken, and dried yak meat and cheese . One of the typical meals is rice, dried pork or beef, and chilies sometimes cooked with soft, white cheese. The most popular among all beverages is tea, which is served in a variety of ways in Bhutan.
8. Secular Celebrations of Bhutan:
On the National Day of 17 December , one of the largest annual festivals takes place, which commemorates the establishment of the monarchy. At this very event the king participates by serving foods and joining the attendees in games and in dances.
9. Buddhist Rituals and the Holy Places:
A number of annual festivals are being highlighted at different events in the life of Buddha. Many of them features symbolic dances, which are thought to bestow heavenly blessings on the participants as well as on viewers.
10. Marriages in Bhutan:
The marriages in Bhutan may be arranged by the parents or by the individuals entering the marriage. To get married to one another, a certificate is required from the court of law, but now most of the marriages are performed by a religious leader. The practices of Polyandry (multiple husbands) has recently been abolished and the practice of polygamy is made legal provided the first wife grants her consent in this country.
