People of Bhutan

The people of Bhutan are also referred to as Bhutanese, and the official language is Dzongkha. They are known for being warm-smiling, kind, and simple. A majority of them live in rural villages in between mountains, rivers, and valleys. Bhutan is a culturally diverse nation. The Bhutanese people believe in harmony, respect, and living as a community. Gross National Happiness (GNH) is used to lead daily life and prioritizes well-being and happiness over wealth, using a comprehensive framework that values factors like health, education, cultural preservation, and ecological balance. The Bhutanese culture and lifestyle are deeply connected to nature, spirituality, and culture, and these factors make them unique in the contemporary world.

Ethnic Groups of Bhutan

• Ngalong (or Bhote): A Tibetan-origin group living mainly in western Bhutan; traditionally the ruling elite, speakers of Dzongkha, and followers of Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism.
• Sharchop: The Largest ethnic group in eastern Bhutan; they speak Sharchopkha (Tshangla), practise Buddhism (mainly Nyingma and Drukpa Kagyu), and are active in agriculture.
• Lhotshampas: Nepali-origin community settled in southern Bhutan; mostly Hindus (with some Buddhists and Christians), speak Nepali, and contribute diverse cultural practices.

Language and Communication

The Bhutanese people speak Dzongkha, but they have numerous other languages, such as Sharchopkha, Bumthangkha, and Nepali. In school and government and business, English is usually studied. Bhutanese people value the use of honorific language and speak in a polite and respectful manner. People shake hands with a bow or with a Kuzuzangpo la. Everyday conversation incorporates proverbs, blessings, and beneficial words. The behavior of the Bhutanese people reflects the principles of respect and compassion. In Bhutan, language not only serves as a means of communication but also symbolises the heritage and unity of the Bhutanese culture and tradition.

Lifestyle and Occupation

The Bhutanese traditional and simple lifestyle is characterised by a basic way of life, closely connected to nature. Farming, herding, and handicrafts are the major activities of most people. Those are self-reliant villages that produce rice, maize, and vegetables as well as dairy products. Government offices, schools, tourism, and small businesses employ residents in cities. Buddhist symbols adorn the traditional stone and wood houses. Everyday life balances work, family, and religion. Bhutanese have a national dress: Men use Gho, and women use Kira. Tradition and modernity coexist in their way of life, as they improve modern amenities without diminishing their culture.

Religion and Spirituality

The Bhutanese primarily practise Vajrayana Buddhism; a few practise Hinduism, especially in the south. Religion has a tremendous influence on life, day-to-day activities, festivals, art, and values. Individuals also head to monasteries in Bhutan, where they light butter lamps and pray using prayer wheels and flags. Lamas are spiritual leaders who are for rituals and meditations in the community. Festivals like the Tshechus of Bhutan bring people together with dancing, music, and blessings. Religion teaches mercy, peace, and unity with nature. Spirituality remains as an inseparable part of the Bhutanese culture and way of life even to this day, thus making them lead a simple, joyful, and peaceful life with both nature and the society.

The people of Bhutan are warm, peaceful, and traditional, and they present the world with a wonderful example of how to live joyfully, simply, and with deep respect for Bhutanese culture and nature.