From internet and mobile phones to satellite TV, progress and technology have been accepted but carefully monitored so they do not impair cultural values. Religion, tradition and care for the natural world are the cornerstones of Bhutanese society. The young King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck vowed to pursue his father’s policy to promote sustainable development alongside spiritual survival.
Today most Bhutanese claim to be happy and have no wish to live anywhere else. Those who study abroad return to share their skills for the common good, the royal family and monks body are held in high esteem and Bhutan’s material and spiritual worlds grow side by side.
Buddhism and Spiritual Power in Bhutan Shangri La
In Bhutan, the last Shangri La and its newly established democracy, religion is still the driving force. Practised across the kingdom, Buddhism unifies all ethnic groups except for the Nepali minority in the south. Monks play an active role in the community, performing ancient rituals for the benefit of all. Along with the King, they are the true pillars of society.
Shrines, temples and the great fortified monasteries, or dzongs, testify to religious zeal, drawing huge crowds at festival time when myriad merits can be gained. Tantric Buddhism as practised in Bhutan is a happy religion, encouraging devotion, compassion and good deeds to elevate both physical and spiritual aspects of life.
Bhutan Society and Gross National Happiness
Bhutan’s social values are based on respect, encompassing religion, royal family, parents, elders and all living things. Lay and religious hierarchies provide role models but are close to the people. Many bow at the roadside when a dignitary comes past but the new King promised to serve rather than rule and is hailed by all as caring and approachable.
Smoking was banned some years ago to ensure a healthy future, free contraception allows pleasure without risk, education and healthcare are free and women have attained equal status. Helping with house chores, farm work or classroom cleaning encourages a responsible attitude among the young, part of their education alongside Buddhist teachings. Work is valued as an act of worship.
Natural World and Environment Conservation in Bhutan
Bhutan claims one of the world’s most pristine environments, a divine gift which is given priority over quick gain development. Some 60% of the land is protected forest, plastic bags are banned, raw timber cannot be commercially exported. Solar power and hydro-electricity are encouraged for minimum environmental impact and the needs of farmers and herders carefully balanced with wild life protection. National parks and sanctuaries stretch from tropical lowlands to the high Himalaya.
As a result of its conservation policies, Bhutan has maintained a rich biodiversity, including over 5000 plant species, among them medicinal plants and 600 different orchids, mammals from tigers to snow leopards and bears and 675 bird species, some on the endangered list, such as the black-necked cranes. In a land-locked country just 300 by 150 km, the natural world is a major asset for Gross National Happiness.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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