TANGBI MANI BUMTHANG

In one of Bhutan's most famous monasteries, Thangbi Lhakang, founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche, Chokki Drakpa, this three-day festival is reputed to bring peace and prosperity to families and ensure a better harvest for the entire community. The festival culminates in a fire blessing ceremony (Mewang), which is celebrated in the open air. Lay monks perform purification rituals while people jump over the flames to purify themselves. Masked dances are obviously part of the ceremony.