𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐮𝐞𝐳𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥, 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

By Kezang choden

Residents of Drepong Gewog in Mongar Dzongkhag observe their unique traditional ritual known as Dueza. This three-day event, deeply rooted in local customs, is celebrated annually starting from the 7th day of the 4th lunar month. Dueza is a time-honored ritual passed down through generations, involving various offerings made to the local deity to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the community. The festivities are marked by vibrant ceremonies that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Local leaders and elders play a crucial role in guiding the younger generation through the practices and significance of Dueza, preserving and respecting cultural values and rituals.

The rituals begin with offerings of symbolic items to appease the deity. This act of devotion is believed to bring blessings, protect against misfortune, and promote harmony within the community. Throughout the three days, residents engage in rituals that foster a strong sense of unity and continuity of their traditions.
For 61-year-old resident Dorji Jamtsho, the age-old rituals of Drepong Gewog are more than mere customs. He describes the unique communal activities that mark each day of the celebration: “On the first day, all the women of Drepong Gewog gather to prepare local wine (Ara), a key component of the celebrations. Concurrently, the men embark on fishing expeditions. The day culminates in a festive gathering where the community enjoys the freshly prepared local wine and an array of fish dishes.”

“The second day is dedicated to a symbolic ritual involving a cow made of dough, with butter applied to its forehead. On this day, residents engage in a strict fast, consuming only milk. This day is specifically devoted to honoring the cow, reflecting the community’s deep reverence for livestock,” Jamtsho adds. “Residents are also prohibited from stepping onto farmland, and the day is observed as a time for rest and reflection.”

“On the third day, there is an emphasis on environmental preservation. Residents are not permitted to cut trees or pluck flowers and leaves from plants. This day serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the importance of sustainable living,” Jamtsho explains. “These prohibitions not only protect the local flora but also foster harmony and appreciation for the natural world among the residents.”

Tshogpa (village representative) Karma of Drepong Gewog elaborates on the significance of these ritual days: “During this time, residents refrain from any kind of work. It is believed that defying this rule could lead to misfortune in the form of natural disasters and diseases affecting the gewog. The person responsible for the breach is believed to bear the burden of these misfortunes. Consequently, work is set aside for three days as the community comes together to celebrate and reflect. This pause also ensures that the youth participate actively in the rituals, learning and preserving the unique cultural heritage of our community.”

Many young residents eagerly participate in these rituals, finding joy in learning from their elders and ensuring that traditions are passed down to future generations. The enthusiastic involvement of the youth underscores the enduring relevance and vitality of these age-old customs, which are deeply rooted in community values, respect for nature, and reverence for livestock integral to the way of life in Drepong Gewog.