In September 2005 I went to Bhutan, fulfilling a promise I made to myself whilst undergoing cancer treatment the previous year. I had long wanted to attend one of the Tsechu, the three day festivals of ritual dance which commemorate the deeds of the eighth century Buddhist saint, Padmasambhava (meaning, lotus born), who brought Buddhism to Bhutan riding on the back of a tiger. These festivals are held each year in various towns throughout Bhutan. Villagers come from miles around, traditionally dressed in their finest kiras and ghos, to participate in the Tsechu and to meet up with old friends. The whole ceremony is not only an astonishingly vibrant, colourful and beautiful spectacle, it is a deeply cathartic experience which culminates in participants lining up for hours to be blessed by one of the high Lamas in attendance.

It was whilst attending the Tsechu in Wangdi province that I learnt about the plight of Mephuna Village.  Heavy monsoon rains had washed away the water channel which had been so painstakingly constructed to facilitate the village's access to clean water. The first task was to raise funds for materials which would enable the villagers to fix the channel. This however was a small task when the overall situation was looked at. It was clear that there could be little improvement in the daily life of the villagers without a road. Raising the funds for this venture is a gigantic task. The current estimate is that $10,000 is needed. The Village Road Project is only a small beginning. We hope people will be inspired to support this venture to whatever degree they are able.

Thankyou for taking the time to visit our site
Tashi Delek
Kara Everson.