1. Introduction & Historical Origins
Bongko is a traditional festival celebrated once every three years at Bali, Haa. The similar event is celebrated at Dumchu and Yangthang. It is believed to have started in the 12th century during the era of Phajo Drugom Zhipo, a key figure in the establishment of the Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutan. Although its exact origins are unclear, the festival has been passed down through generations and remains a significant cultural and spiritual practice.
2. Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Bongko blends pre-Buddhist animist and shamanistic traditions with Buddhist devotion. It is performed for the peace and prosperity of the community and reflects the syncretic nature of Bhutanese spirituality, where older local beliefs coexist with Buddhism. The festival is seen as an expression of uncontaminated devotion to Buddhism, even as it preserves ancient rituals.
3. Preparations
Bongko is held between the first and second month of the Bhutanese calendar, regardless of the weather. Preparations begin well in advance: Pazaaps practice the Zhey, and women rehearse dances one or two weeks ahead. The main program takes place over two consecutive days.
Day 1 – Ritual Preparations:
On the evening of the first day, all the Pazaaps gather on the ground floor of a designated house to participate in a ritual led by an astrologer and monks. This ceremony involves sending off a ritual cake, which symbolizes good health and happiness for the village over the next three years, until the next Bongko. Simultaneously, the shaman prepares his own ritual cake for the main day’s ceremonies. The women (Nangi-Aums) often attend the shaman with enthusiasm to hear his Mo (prophecy or divination).
Day 2 – Main Event:
The celebration centers around the Phajo, a sacred wooden thunderbolt wrapped in silk and brocade, kept in a village house regarded as its abode.
– Villagers dress in their finest traditional attire. Men carry swords and wear special gho, while women adorn their best jewelry.
– The Phajo is carried to Bali Lhakhang in a ceremonial procession led by the Pazaaps, followed by women singing “Au Lepay Lepay.” After being sanctified at the temple, it is taken to the Bongko ground.
– Shamans perform rituals, chant the story of Phajo Drugom Zhipo, and communicate with spirits to warn of future events and appease deities.
– A group of young women, led by a female shaman (Neljorma), carries wheat flour and an arrow (Dhadar) to appease the Goddess of the Lake (Tsomen).
– The village boundaries are ritually demarcated in the four directions (North, South, East, and West) with offerings and symbolic weapons.
– A series of cultural programs are arranged to showcase the beauty and unity of the village women and to preserve local culture and traditions.
– Performances continue into the night, with participation from both young and old.
– The Phajo is carried through the crowd to give blessings, and people offer money in return. It is believed that Phajo can grant wish what you ask for.
– Visitors from nearby villages attend, and small local trade activities take place.
3. Conclusion. Bongko: more than Festival – A Living Prayer
After two days of gathering, performance, and entertainment, the festival concludes. Bongko serves as a living tradition that strengthens community bonds, preserves oral history, and integrates spiritual beliefs. From the eldest to the youngest, villagers pray for good health, happiness, and prosperity in the community for the next three years. Bongko is therefore regarded as a deeply sacred and cherished tradition of Bali village. This year Bongko will be held on 22nd February 2026 (Fifth Day of the First Month of Bhutanese Calendar) coinciding with His Majesty The King’s Birth Anniversary.
