Thimphu Tshechu, the most significant religious event in Bhutan, is celebrated annually in the capital city of Thimphu. This colorful festival, held from the 10th to 12th day of the 8th Bhutanese lunar month, usually in September or October, honors Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Bhutan. The mask dances performed during Thimphu Tshechu are deeply symbolic and spiritually significant:
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Dance of the Black Hats (Shinje Yab Yum): Symbolizing the subjugation of evil forces, performers don fearsome black hats adorned with bone ornaments. They wield swords and enact ancient battles between gods and demons.
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Dance of the Lords of the Cremation Grounds (Durdag): Masked dancers represent protective deities of the cremation grounds, purifying the environment and warding off evil spirits.
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Dance of the Eight Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche: Each dancer embodies one of the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche, depicting various aspects of his life and teachings.
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Dance of the Terrifying Deities (Tungam): Wrathful deities, depicted with fearsome masks and elaborate costumes, protect against negativity and obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
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Dance of the Four Stags (Sha Zam): Graceful performers dressed as deer symbolize harmony and the interconnectedness of all living beings.