In a rare blend of tradition and sport, the grounds of the old Nima High School in Thimphu are witnessing an unusual yet heartening sight — hundreds of young monks in crimson robes chasing cricket balls and swinging bats with glee.
The Dechen Phodrang Monastery, currently undergoing renovations, has temporarily shifted its residents to the school campus. While the setting may have changed, so has the daily routine. Instead of chanting prayers and studying scriptures, the young monks are spending part of their day learning the finer points of cricket.
Around 250 monks are participating in a five-day cricket training programme — a collaboration between the Bhutan Cricket Council Board, UNICEF, and the Central Monastic Body. The initiative aims to build leadership, teamwork, and physical well-being among adolescent monks and nuns through sport.
“I had never played cricket before, so trying it today was really fun,” said young monk Karma Tobden, visibly excited after his first cricket match. “We not only get to experience something new but also exercise. There’s a tournament coming up, and I feel very encouraged to keep learning.”
His peer, Dorji Tshewang, echoed the sentiment: “It not only benefits our physical health but also gives us a chance to show our skills. I’m very thankful for this opportunity.”
The monks, draped in flowing red robes that flutter like flags in the breeze, fill the air with laughter and energy that has transformed the once-quiet school grounds. For many, it’s the first time holding a bat or diving for a ball, but the enthusiasm is unmistakable.
“This initiative is special because it promotes physical health while helping them build teamwork and team bonding,” said Kencho Norbu, programme coordinator with the Bhutan Cricket Council Board. “Monks don’t often get such opportunities since their focus is primarily on religious education.”
The programme is set to expand to other monastic institutions across Bhutan, including Phochu Dumra Lobda in Punakha, Samkhar Lhendrup Choeling in Trashigang, Thupten Choeling in Trongsa, and Tenchen Choeling Nunnery in Paro. At the end of each training session, one monk will be selected to lead cricket coaching at their monastic school, culminating in a national tournament scheduled for December.
Tshewang, principal of the Dechen Phodrang Monastery, believes the fusion of sports and spiritual learning is not only natural but necessary. “Physical exercise is very important at a young age. As we grow older, our religious practices also become a form of exercise. Monks, like all children, should benefit from such opportunities.”
As the sun sets over the temporary campus, the echoes of cheers and cricketing commands slowly fade — leaving behind a sense of joy, growth, and possibility. In the quiet of the evening, it’s clear that the lessons learned on the cricket field may stay with these young monks long after the final ball is bowled.
