February 28: The Dragon’s gift: the sacred arts of Bhutan, an exhibition on Buddhist arts is underway at Honolulu in the US. The exhibition at the Honolulu Academy of Arts was inaugurated by Her Royal Highness the Princess Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck on Saturday.

In her opening address, Her Royal Highness said such exchanges will further the bonds of friendship and understanding between the people which will develop to greater levels of cooperation between the two countries.

Her Royal Highness expressed hopes that the cultural exchange will enable an understanding and appreciation of Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

The exhibition showcases 117 sacred items. This includes sacred works of art dating back to the 8th century like painted and textile thangkas, sculptures, rare tantric deities, portraits of Buddhist masters, ritual items and sculptures.