Religion of Bhutan

Religion in Bhutan has an important role to play in its life, culture, and traditions, becoming a central aspect of the living-learning scenario. However, Bhutan is a strongly Buddhist country, with over 70% of the population practicing Vajrayana Buddhism or Tantric Buddhism. This branch of Buddhism has been in practice in Bhutan soil for centuries, with architecture, art, festivals, and daily living activities all bearing the influence of the Tantric ideas. Bhutan has soaring views of Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and brightly coloured prayer flags that illustrate the deep spiritual roots of its population. 

Bhutanese Buddhism also has a link with the monarchy and the government, many of whose kings had historically been protectors of the faith. Monks inhabit monasteries in Bhutan, while occasionally, young Bhutanese boys are sent for monastic education for part of their early years. There are tshechus in each district, where people gather to enjoy traditional dances, music, and rituals to pay homage to Buddhist teachings and saints. These events also provide a great attraction to outsiders, giving them a glimpse of Bhutan’s rich spiritual traditions.

A minority, primarily in the south, practices Hinduism and Buddhism. Devout celebrations take place for Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar, and some towns house temples dedicated to Hindu gods. Religion in Bhutan is more than belief; it is a way of life. It dictates the moral values and ways of social conduct and community practices among the people of Bhutan. Bhutanese, by and large, engage in prayer and meditation and are very charitable on a day-to-day basis.

Hence, much like Bhutanese culture, governance, and everyday life, Bhutanese religion is a seamless whole that centres around Buddhism, whereas Hinduism adds to cultural pluralism, providing competing concepts to distil into a well-balanced culture with a common anchor in religion, customs, and spiritual values.

The very existence and essence of Bhutanese religion are interwoven with culture and government. Buddhism is the principal faith in Bhutan. Hinduism adds to the diversity of teachings upon cultural soil and competing ideas that help nurture a shared culture centred on the basis of a shared religion, traditions, and spiritual values.