Once every three years, the quiet villages of Wangdue Phodrang come alive as families return home to observe Sha-Gi Looju, a centuries-old ritual believed to safeguard communities from misfortune. While the festival remains a deeply cherished tradition, many communities today face a growing challenge: a shortage of experienced shamans to lead the sacred rites. This year, however, one village found hope in the willingness of its youth.
In Phangyuel Gewog’s Chhungsekha-Dhomkha Chiwog, the triennial celebration went ahead without disruption after a 22-year-old university student stepped forward to take on the demanding role of pawo, a male shaman central to the ritual. Traditionally led by a pawo alongside a female shaman known as a neljorm, Sha-Gi Looju requires the lead performer to chant lengthy verses while executing precise ritual dances—an undertaking that usually calls for years of experience.
For Tenzin Sangay Dorjee, the responsibility came with both pride and pressure. A third-year university student studying in Paro and currently based in Thimphu, he returned home specifically to serve his community. In the week leading up to the festival, he underwent intensive training under senior performers to master the chants and movements.
Clad in a traditional gho and ceremonial attire, Tenzin led the ritual with composure, guiding fellow performers through the dances and chants. To keep pace with the intricate verses, he occasionally referred to the text on his mobile phone—a modern touch woven into an ancient practice. Despite the challenge of chanting and dancing simultaneously, he said he volunteered willingly, motivated by a desire to preserve his village’s cultural heritage. Having seen his elder brother serve in the role before him, he views this as a continuation of family and community responsibility.
Youth participation extended well beyond the lead role. Most of the warriors, known as pazaps, were also young people, many of them students who had returned from towns and cities. Around 20 took part, while young girls dressed in finely woven kiras and adorned with traditional ornaments joined the celebration, representing every household in the chiwog. Residents say this strong turnout not only addressed manpower shortages but also strengthened bonds within the community.
Village leaders expressed relief and optimism at the sight of so many young faces. They say there is often uncertainty about whether younger generations, increasingly based in urban areas for education and work, will continue to take part in such traditions. This year’s participation, they believe, offers reassurance that the legacy is not yet fading.
Sha-Gi Looju is widely believed to predate the widespread arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan. According to elders, it was introduced during a time of hardship to subdue harmful forces and restore balance. Today, the ritual is performed to pray for peace, timely rains, good harvests, and protection from illness and misfortune. Many villagers hold that neglecting the festival could invite poor crop yields, erratic weather, and increased sickness in the years that follow.
As the drums fall silent and families prepare to return to their daily lives, uncertainty remains. With the festival held only once every three years, sustained youth participation cannot be taken for granted. Yet, for now, the people of Chhungsekha-Dhomkha draw comfort from what they witnessed this year: a younger generation willing to step forward, learn, and carry an ancient responsibility into the future.
