October 27:Women from all parts of the country, sharing stories in their own words have been compiled into a documentary film and a book entitled Reflections. This was launched by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuck at a function Saturday evening.

The project was taken up to pay tribute to the womanhood as Bhutan celebrates hundred years of monarchy and the coronation celebrations.

Reflections- Words and Wisdom of Bhutanese women, presents the experiences and concerns of women throughout the country in their own words.

Voices- a documentary film portrays the lives of Bhutanese women living in different regions of the country.

The book and the film were launched by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuck at a function on Saturday evening.

The celebrations were marked to pay tribute to the women in Bhutan as part of centenary and coronation celebrations.

Angay Lhazom, a 101 year old woman from Punakha also joined Her Majesty the Queen at the launch.

The event at the RENEW center was held to mark the successful completion of the film and the book which was initiated by Her Majesty the Queen in 2006 to raise awareness among women and pay tribute to the role of women in the development of the country.

A Dzongkha handbook Saang Tam to raise awareness on gender issues was also launched.

Women representatives from different dzongkhags who have been a part in the making of the video and the book were also present at the function.

Angay Pelzom, 72, from Gasa told BBS that she gave up all her farmwork when she was selected to represent her Dzongkhag and go to Thimphu.

Likewise, more than sixty women from different Dzongkhags participated in the function.

Being a part of the colorful gathering was obviously a joy for them, but besides the fun part, these women have also been learning the issues of women, gender and equality.

Some of them said that they are now more aware about women issues and said that they will share their knowledge with fellow villagers.

The evening was brought to life also with entertainment programs from local artists and musicians.

Her Royal Highness the Princess Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck and Her Royal Highness the Princess Ashi Euphelma Choden Wangchuk, also graced the function.

Cabinet Ministers, the Opposition Leader, senior dignitaries and officials from the international agencies were also present.