Tungam Chham (Dance of the Terrifying Deities)
Art Description
This dance is performed at religious festivals to deliver sentient beings into Zangto Pelri, the heavenly abode of Guru Rinpoche. Here, Guru Rinpoche takes the form of Dorji Drakpo or “the fierce thunderbolt.” This dance has a deep significance. The main god performs a symbolic sacrifice of evil spirits with the Phub, a ritual dagger after entrapping them in a box. Thus, he saves the world and at the same time, delivers the spirits into salvation.
Art Specification
Title: Tungam Chham (Dance of the Terrifying Deities)
Year: 2022
Dimension: 120x120cm
Medium: Acrylic
Exhibited In: Healing with Happiness
Price: Price on Request
Artwork Code: HWH104
Deki Choden
Born 2001, From Thimphu
I was a self-taught artist until I joined VAST Bhutan where I gained a wider perspective of art. This enabled me to explore various other dimensions, mediums and techniques. At VAST Bhutan I learned the concept of ‘teamwork’ as an important tool in life. Meeting, working and engaging in conversations with different individuals and perceptions concerning art enhanced my own skills. I learned that the knowledge of self-expression is a must-have tool for every individual.
This series of paintings depict the various dances performed at religious festivals- Tshechu, which are still widely attended and an important community event in Bhutan. The dances derive from Buddhist teachings, and are rich with meaning and symbolism.