(20th – 23rd November 2012)
Pema Gatshel is one of the six districts in eastern Bhutan and one of the newly established Districts. The district is known for numerous festivals and folk songs. The most notable folk song is the Ausa, a song that is sung during departures of family members, friends and relatives.
The Mask Dances known as Cham are performed during the three day festival. Cham are believed to bring blessings upon the spectators and teach them the teachings of the Buddhist dharma. Cham are also believed to provide protection from misfortune and exorcise evil influences. The festival is a religious ceremony and it is believed one gains merit by attending it. It is also a yearly social gathering where people from all walks of life travel great distances to be a part of it. The people rejoice together, dressed in their finest clothing.
