Bhutanese
language and literature, the arts and crafts, ceremonies and events,
and basic social and cultural values draw their essence from religious
teachings. The tradition of fine art is alive today, manifested, for
example, in products like the legendary thangkas. The exquisite traditional
painting is also visible on monasteries and houses, skillfully enhancing
the architecture.
Architecture
is also a significant feature of the Bhutanese identity. The combination
of engineering skill and aesthetic beauty is unparalleled in all structures,
from the massive monastic fortresses to houses and bridges. Traditional
shapes, colors and patterns on the walls, doors, windows present in
the Bhutanese architecture is in a class of its own.
Music,
dance, and handicrafts, both by the clergy and the population, play
an important role in national, village, or domestic functions and
festivals. Bhutan's textile tradition has, in recent years, gone international.
The distinct technique, color and style of indigenous Bhutanese weaving
is being increasingly appreciated by textile specialists, collectors,
and users.
The national
language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. The people also speak more than 18
dialects across the country. Today, English is taught in the schools
and is used as the official working language, but the national leaders
emphasize the development and use of Dzongkha.