𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐎𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐄𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞

…𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔

By Kezang Choden

Bhutanese traditional ornaments, deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural heritage, are being preserved through innovative designs that blend contemporary aesthetics with age-old craftsmanship. This initiative ensures that these ornaments, once an integral part of Bhutanese attire and identity, are not lost to time but continue to thrive in modern society.

Artisans across the country are working to revive traditional designs while adapting them to current trends. Craftsmen, locally known as troeko, are incorporating intricate patterns inspired by Bhutanese motifs, ensuring that the essence of traditional ornaments remains intact. Pieces such as traditional brooches, earrings, and bracelets are now crafted with enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal, making them suitable for both daily wear and special occasions.

Despite modernization, efforts are underway to preserve the authenticity of Bhutanese ornaments. Many artisans adhere to traditional techniques, using locally sourced materials such as gold and silver, which have historically held spiritual and cultural significance. Additionally, workshops and training programs are being conducted to pass down these skills to younger generations, preventing the craft from fading into obscurity. By integrating new designs while maintaining the originality of Bhutanese ornaments, the country is ensuring that its cultural identity remains strong. Once at risk of being forgotten, these treasured ornaments are now gaining recognition and appreciation, securing their place in Bhutanese society for generations to come.

Tshering Dorji, an instructor of troeko at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, has been teaching at the institute for 17 years. Over the years, he has witnessed significant changes in design trends and market preferences, prompting him to adapt his teaching approach to keep pace with evolving demands. He emphasized that while traditional ornament designs remain a crucial part of Bhutanese craftsmanship, introducing modern styles is equally important to cater to contemporary tastes.

“We are not confined to the traditional designs of the past. With changing times and market dynamics, we focus on creating new designs that align with current preferences. Students are showing a keen interest in learning both traditional and modern ornament-making techniques,” he said.

According to Tshering Dorji, teaching only traditional designs may not be beneficial for his students, as modern consumers prefer ornaments that blend cultural heritage with innovative aesthetics. He stressed that adapting to market trends ensures that students can thrive as skilled artisans capable of meeting consumer demands.

As Bhutan embraces evolving designs in traditional ornament-making, some veteran artisans express concerns over the diminishing focus on heritage styles. Lotay Gyeltshen, a 76-year-old traditional ornament maker from Taba, Thimphu, has dedicated more than six decades to crafting intricate Bhutanese ornaments. He began his work at the age of 15, learning the art from his elder brother. With years of experience, he remains deeply attached to traditional designs and worries about their gradual disappearance.

“I prefer making ornaments in the old styles rather than adopting new designs,” he shared. “Our traditional patterns carry deep cultural and historical significance, and if we do not continue making them, they could eventually be lost.”
While acknowledging the appeal of modern styles, he believes it is essential to strike a balance between innovation and preservation. He hopes that young artisans will not focus solely on contemporary designs but will also take the time to learn and uphold the country’s rich ornament-making traditions. “If the younger generation could value both traditional and modern designs equally, it would help safeguard our heritage while allowing for artistic creativity,” he added.

Veteran artisans like Lotay Gyeltshen emphasize the importance of keeping these time-honored crafts alive for future generations.

With evolving preferences, traditional ornament designs are gradually adapting to modern trends. While younger generations are drawn to contemporary styles, many individuals, including those from older generations, continue to cherish and preserve the country’s rich heritage in adornments.

Jigme Yoezer, a driglam (traditional etiquette) specialist from the Department of Culture and Dzongkhag Development, emphasized the importance of safeguarding traditional designs despite inevitable modernization. “It is natural for designs to evolve based on people’s choices, especially with youth opting for more stylish and contemporary looks. However, it is equally important to retain and preserve the old designs, as they reflect our cultural identity and history,” he stated.

He noted that while demand for modern ornament designs is increasing, many people, including elders, still value and uphold traditional patterns. “The concern is that if all ornaments transition to modern styles, the essence of our cultural heritage may be lost. Therefore, striking a balance between innovation and preservation is necessary,” he added.

With globalization and changing fashion trends, Bhutanese ornament craftsmanship faces the challenge of maintaining its authenticity while catering to evolving consumer preferences. Experts urge artisans and designers to ensure that both traditional and modern designs coexist, enabling younger generations to appreciate their cultural heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics.

As the country continues to modernize, stakeholders stress the need for a collective effort to preserve traditional ornament designs, ensuring that future generations inherit the rich artistic legacy of the past.

Tashi Choden, a 24-year-old resident of Thimphu, shared her preference for modern ornament designs, citing their ease of wear and suitability for everyday use. She noted that while traditional ornaments hold cultural significance, they are often heavier and typically reserved for special occasions.

“In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, modern ornaments are more practical. They are lightweight, versatile, and complement both traditional and contemporary attire,” she said.

Tashi also acknowledged the importance of preserving the country’s rich heritage in ornament craftsmanship. She explained that many young Bhutanese, including herself, opt for contemporary designs that incorporate elements of traditional patterns. This approach allows them to maintain cultural identity while embracing modern aesthetics.

She further highlighted that the trend of upgrading designs is not limited to ornaments but extends to various aspects of daily life, including clothing, home décor, and accessories. “People are constantly seeking innovation, blending old and new to create something unique,” she added.

Traditional ornaments hold immense cultural significance, symbolizing heritage, pride, and identity. Despite the influence of modernization, many still cherish the intricate craftsmanship of old ornaments, considering them invaluable heirlooms.

Namo, a 65-year-old from Dagana Dzongkhag, expressed her deep admiration for traditional designs, emphasizing their historical and sentimental worth. She believes that while contemporary styles have gained popularity, traditional ornaments should not be forgotten, as they embody the essence of Bhutanese heritage.

“I prefer old designs over modern ones because they carry deep meaning and pride,” she said. “Even as new designs emerge, it is crucial to preserve and appreciate traditional ornaments, ensuring that younger generations understand their value.”

Namo also highlighted that efforts are being made to incorporate elements of traditional craftsmanship into modern designs, making them more appealing while retaining their originality. She stressed that both old and new designs should be equally valued and preserved to keep the country’s rich tradition of ornament-making alive.

As modernization continues to influence cultural practices, individuals like Namo serve as reminders of the importance of safeguarding Bhutan’s artistic legacy, ensuring that traditional ornaments remain a cherished part of the nation’s identity.