Chapter 12: The Metaphorical World of Archery

Archery, the national sport of Bhutan is a form of Bhutanese recreation, arts and culture, a source of physical, aesthetic and intellectual recreation. One of the notable benefits of an archery tournament is that it provides opportunities for socializing—even to the point of crossing class barriers so that it helps reinforce or restore communal and group solidarities. Archery has a great appeal to the Bhutanese, especially, because it combines the adventure and excitement of victory and the disappointment of defeat with the beauty of the play. This excitement even draws spectators who are curious to see the events take place and appreciate watching the skilful players perform. In this sense, archery in Bhutan has become an art as well as an entertainment.