Paro is an ordinary, medium sized town of 60,000 people. It has normal people living normal lives. At this time every year the place is transformed when it holds a 5 day festival. There is a hint in the short main street as visitors from all over Bhutan & locals parade up & down dressed in their best finery, men & women looking very glam.
The crowds gather outside the dzong (fort, remember) to watch the monks depicting their teachings through dance. Brightly coloured costumes & terrifying masks make a real spectacle, as does the appreciative audience. I am there for day 4 – the dance of the Lord of death and his consort (Shinje Yab Yum!!!).
Locals share their food, fill in the plot and the characters & share jokes & stories. I am just going to put up a few images so you get the flavour of the event. Enjoy, I did.
