Yet their long journey—nearly 450 miles (6 hour’s one way by car), was an evidence to back our frequent-say that ‘Bhutanese in Diaspora’ are committed towards preserving their long-practiced culture and tradition; thanks god.
In an effort to preserve their old culture and tradition, more than 30 resettled Bhutanese from North Dakota, where temples are not yet built, recently visited a Hindu temple in their neighboring State, Minnesota.
Their Minnesota-based fellow Bhutanese friends warmly greeted them and assisted possible help. “We are very excited to see our fellow Bhutanese friends on this occasion,” said a woman in a smiling complexion.
When the group reached the Minnesota Hindu Temple, it had actually healed their tiredness following the six-hour long continuous one-way journey. Ganga Lamitary, who was a lead player to guide the team, said, “It’s a great pleasure to meet Bhutanese friends wherever we go, whatever we do but we should never forget the fact that we are Bhutanese and we will remain Bhutanese forever.
On the occasion, Lamitaray further pointed out the necessity to promote our identity. “We should not hesitate to introduce ourselves as Bhutanese American,” added Lamitaray. Meanwhile, Dr. Shani at the Minnesota Hindu Temple emphasized on empowering Bhutanese community.
Their effort to make such a long journey to reach a nearby Hindu temple, miles away from their hometown, clearly speaks of the fact that ‘where there is will there is a way’.
By Bikash Dhakal/Minnesota for BNS
