September 11: Initiatives are being taken to standardize Drametse Nga Cham. Drametse Nga Cham or the dance of the drums is a sacred masked dance which originated in Drametse in Monggar.

The mask dance has been proclaimed by the United Nations Cultural Organization, as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

The Drametse Nga Cham was first performed in 1511 at the consecration of the Drubchu Goenba in Drametse in Monggar. It was introduced by Choedup Kinga Wangpo, the fourth son of Terton Pema Lingpa.

According to legend, Choedup Kinga Wangpo was transported while in his dream to the celestial palace of Guru Rinpoche where he witnessed the mask dance being performed. It is performed during festivals in most part of the country.

The Lhalung Suntruel Rinpoche said over the years, subtle variation has been observed in the way the dance was performed from place to place.

To standardize the scared mask dance, monks and Gomchens are being taught the way the dance is performed. The steps are based on the way it was performed at its place of origin, the Drametse Thegchog Ugyen Choling Dratshang in Monggar.

The two-month training began on Sunday. The Lhalung Sungtruel Rinpoche said the training also aims to preserve the sacred mask dance.

Our reporter Tenzin Namgyel says school dance teachers will also be trained during the winter vacation. About 40 teachers will be taking part in the training this winter. The trainings are being organized by the Department of Culture of the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs with funds from UNESCO.

The Cultural Organization will also be documenting steps of the Dramtse Nga Cham during the annual Drametse Tshechu this November.