Bhutanese Lamas, India
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Bhutanese Lamas, India
Four Bhutanese Lamas with musical instruments, India. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14138027
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography
Bhutan Bhutanese Drum Instrument Instruments Lama Lamas Musical Racial
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken circa 1890s, captures the enigmatic presence of four Bhutanese Lamas engaged in a musical performance in India. The Lamas, spiritual leaders in Bhutanese Buddhism, are dressed in their traditional robes, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors. Each Lama holds a unique musical instrument, adding to the symphony of sounds that would have filled the air during their rituals. The Lama on the far left plays a large, hand-held drum, its rawhide drumhead stretched taut over a wooden body. The drum, an essential component of Bhutanese music, is used to keep the rhythm and set the tempo for the performance. To his right, another Lama holds a long, curved trumpet-like instrument called a Dungchen. The Dungchen, made from a single piece of bamboo, produces a distinctive, resonant sound that carries through the air. Its use is believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The third Lama holds a small, cylindrical instrument called a Drilbu or Ghunru. This instrument, made from a hollowed-out log, is struck with a mallet to produce a deep, resonant sound. The Drilbu is used to call the spirits and invite them to participate in the ritual. The fourth Lama, seated cross-legged, plays a long, two-stringed instrument called a Dzimpe. The Dzimpe, made from a single piece of wood, is played by plucking the strings with the fingers. Its haunting melodies are said to evoke a deep sense of contemplation and spiritual connection. This photograph offers a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan and the important role that music plays in its spiritual practices. The racial types of the Lamas, with their distinctive features and traditional attire, add to the historical significance of this image, transporting us back in time to a world of spirituality, music, and tradition.
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