Samtse Students Dive into Stories and Culture at Bhutan Echoes Festival

Seven students from Samtse College of Education (SCE), led by their tutor Ms. Tshering Om Tamang, attended the 14th edition of Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival (DLAF). The event was held at the Royal University of Bhutan Auditorium from August 2 to 4, 2025, under the royal patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, with the theme “The Great Fourth’s Wisdom of Balance: Harmonizing Heritage, Nature, and the Human Spirit.”

The festival featured a vibrant array of activities, including film screenings, panel discussions, literary sessions, creative workshops, and book launches. His Serene Highness Jigje Singye Wangchuck graced the occasion and delivered a keynote address, offering profound reflections on this year’s theme. He also joined a thought-provoking dialogue titled “The Wisdom of Balance: The Great Fourth’s Legacy” alongside His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Thierry Mathou and Suhasini Haidar, Diplomatic Editor of The Hindu.

For the students of SCE, the festival was an invaluable learning experience. They attended diverse sessions and workshops, gaining insights into a range of themes and perspectives. One notable session was “The Gentle Art of Balance: Stories That Shape Us,” featuring Amanda Chong, lawyer, writer, and poet, and Huma Saleem Qureshi, actor and writer. Moderated by Tenzing Lamsang, Editor-in-Chief of The Bhutanese, the session offered deep reflections on identity, storytelling, and the personal narratives that shape our understanding of the world.

Beyond literary discussions, the workshops provided hands-on engagement in poetry, oracle card reading, surreal art, photography, and digital storytelling—highlighting the festival’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.

A special highlight for the students was their interaction with renowned Bhutanese author Kunzang Choden, one of the country’s first female writers. In an inspiring conversation, she shared her journey into writing and emphasized the role of storytelling in preserving Bhutanese culture. She also discussed her latest book, Telling Me My Stories: Fragments of a Himalayan Childhood, launched at the festival. The students were moved by her encouragement to write personal and meaningful stories rooted in their own experiences.

Tashi Dendup, one of the participants, described the festival as deeply enriching and inspiring. He shared that it offered learning beyond the classroom, filled with innovative ideas, inspiring talks, and diverse perspectives. The chance to interact with renowned writers, artists, and performers was a highlight for him. Tashi found the workshops both engaging and thought-provoking, sparking creativity and expanding his knowledge in areas of personal interest. He expressed his gratitude and hoped that more students would be given the chance to attend such valuable events in the future.

The festival was a memorable and transformative experience for the SCE students. Through attending sessions, participating in workshops, and meeting celebrated authors and artists, they were reminded of the power of stories to connect people, preserve traditions, and inspire change. Events like the Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival continue to play a vital role in shaping young minds in Bhutan.

Reported by Chimi Selden

Pictures below: students with Pinda Rika Dorji, TV host and Professional Gamer

Students with Azhi Kunzang Choden, Author of Telling Me My Stories: Fragments of a Himalayan Childhood

Tashi Dhehdup with Arania Maki,  Art historian and Festival Advisor