Thimphu Drubchen (Thimphu Dromchey) is one-day festival performed at the Thimphu Tashichho Dzong. The Dromchey showcases the sacred masked dance dedicated to the protecting deity of Bhutan, Pelden Lhamo. It was first introduced by Kuenga Gyeltshen in 1710 when he had visions of the Buddhist goddess Pelden Lhamo performing amazing dances before his eyes while he was meditating. Based on his visions, Kuenga Gyeltshen initiated the dance ceremony. The Dromchey is celebrated 3days prior to Thimphu Tshechu.
On the day of Thimphu Drubchen, which falls on the seventh day of the eighth month of Bhutan’s sacred calendar, people from different region dressed in finest Bhutanese attire attend the one-day festival where masked dances will be performed before the crowds. It is believed that dancing is supposed to help protect people from evil spirits. The dance moves are intended as an invocation to the gods to bless, send good luck, and drive away evil spirits.
