Masks and Musical Instruments

Cham are sacred religious dances using masks. It is believed that in watching the sacred dances the observers are delivered from the cycle of suffering. This was a powerful concept in a society that was essentially illiterate. Mask dances were performed on holy days in the monasteries, temples and dzongs and the common people would flock to witness them.

All masks, musical instruments and other related objects displayed were used in Ogyen Choling. Some of them, in particular the musical instrument are still used regularly.

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