Religion
Bhutan Culture
The uniqueness of Bhutan's culture has been the bedrock of her identity. Though, small in size and population, Bhutan has a culture deeply rooted in the values and principles of Buddhism.
Reflecting 'unity in diversity' people of 18 different ethnicities live in harmony with strong sense of oneness. Bhutan's culture is uniquely evolved and time-tested. To provide hospitality to strangers is one of the core social values. Care for strangers and neighbors during the time of adversity like death of a family member is a living fact of a strong caring culture. The traditional festivals are centuries-old and still vibrant. Mask dances are the mainstay of various festivals held round the year in different parts of the country. Mask dances include naked dances performed at the festivals to ward off evil spirits. So the festivals, too, are rich in myth, legends and beliefs. Bhutan's uniqueness in her dress code is one important aspect of the culture that has the potential to keep the history living and reliving. The national dress is called gho (for men) and kira (for women).
One of the most wonderful characteristics of Bhutanese culture is the fact that there are no layers of social castes, unlike in many other countries, especially developing countries. Man and woman, rich and poor, powerful and weak, are all equal. Most elements of Bhutanese culture are part of the national etiquette called Driglam Namzha.
