Bhutan
This 76 yo man, Dolay, lives in Paro, in the western area of Bhutan. He is a farmer by profession and one of the farmers who helped in the rebuilding of Tiger’s Nest, a sacred Himalayan site, after it burned down in the late 1990’s.
Dolay has fathered 9 children, which in the tradition of Bhutanese culture is considered a sign of wealth. Dolay has also worked with the Royal Queen Mother.
This portrait was taken outside of the Paro Festival which is held every year, in honor of Guru Ripoche, who brought Buddhism to the Himalayan regions of Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan around 800 A.D. It is believed that in attending this religious Festival, one gains merit in that misfortunes are annihilated and peace and happiness reign.
