01/07/2023
Thongdrel literally translates to ‘liberation by sight’ and it’s believed that just by glimpsing it a person is purged of negative human tendencies that keep them from being free of suffering. Impressive appliques, their unfurling against the tall walls of Dzongs and monasteries are the highlight of any festival. They are the largest form of thangka (translating to recorded message) paintings, usually depicting imageries of Guru Rinpoche and his manifestations. The unfurling ceremony happens at dawn and the thongdrel is rolled back up before sunrise as direct sun rays are not to fall on the needlework.
