The Kharam Festival

Chali Village, Mongar District, Bhutan

The Kharam festival is a unique and culturally significant event celebrated in Chali village, Mongar district, Bhutan. This festival is deeply rooted in the spiritual and communal traditions of the Chali village. The central feature of the Kharam festival is the erection of a structure prominently marked by a phallus symbol, which serves as a protective emblem meant to ward off evil influences and negative energies. The phallus is constructed from a specific tree known locally as Robtangsing (scientifically called Rhus chinensis), which holds particular cultural and symbolic significance for the community.

The festival is accompanied by chanting and various rituals performed by community members, which further emphasize its spiritual and protective aspects. These rituals are essential in maintaining the cultural fabric of the village, but with the passage of time, younger generations have become less familiar with the deeper meanings and practices associated with the Kharam festival.

Sangay Zangmo, a native of Chali village, has taken the initiative to document the significance of Kharam festival for future generation.