To complement the government’s efforts in containing the COVID-19 pandemic and help minimise further risks, religious institutions across Bhutan are performing a three-day Lhamo Bakchog kurim ceremony.

The sacred ceremony, which began yesterday, to appease one of the country’s protecting deities, Palden Lhamo or Mahakali is being performed on the directive of the Zhung Dratshang (Central Monastic Body).

The former general secretary of Zhung Dratshang, Lopon Gembo Dorji, said that Lhamo Bakchog is a ritual service or offering made to the Goddess Mahakali and her retinues. Her image or replica is made and all possible offerings laid in front.

“Thus, they are fully satisfied and withdraw all diseases and calamities,” he said.

Tsugla Lopon Samten Dorji said that given the difficult situation Bhutan is facing today the central monastic body has directed all the dratshangs and religious institutions to conduct this special kurim to help pacify the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the community.

https://kuenselonline.com/religious-ceremony-to-contain-the-spread-of-COVID-19/