Bhutan - A journey to the unknown south | DW Documentary

This documentary explores the lesser-known southern region of Bhutan, showcasing the unique biodiversity, strong community bonds, and challenges faced by its people. The film highlights the importance of Buddhist principles like compassion and interconnectedness, particularly in the context of animal welfare and community support in rural areas, while illustrating the transformative potential of modern amenities, like electricity, for remote villages.

Animal Rescue & Buddhist Values

• 00:01:28 Sonam Noren, a Buddhist, works with the Janga Animal Rescue Association to save animals, believing it aligns with Buddhist teachings of compassion. He observes the suffering of animals during their transport and sale and strives to save them from slaughter, highlighting the importance of empathy for all living beings in Bhutanese Buddhist culture.

Challenges of Rural Life

• 00:06:09 Many villages in southern Bhutan lack electricity, hindering daily life, particularly impacting education and communication. One family recounts the difficulties of living without electricity, such as struggling to study and relying on expensive paraffin lamps. Their hope for electricity's arrival highlights its transformative potential for their community and daily life.

Healthcare in Remote Areas

• 00:09:20 Tenzin, a dentist, travels to remote areas to provide dental care to people who struggle to access healthcare due to poor infrastructure and long travel times. He emphasizes the importance of dental education and hygiene to improve the oral health of the local population, particularly amongst children, whom he sees as key ambassadors for improved dental hygiene practices.

Traditional Practices & Shamanism

• 00:12:01 In some regions, traditional practices and Shamanism remain significant, with 80-year-old Dea practicing hot stone baths and consulting astrologers for guidance. Sures, a young Shaman, undertakes a death ritual, showcasing a cultural practice that's gradually losing its appeal to younger generations who prioritize education. Sures emphasizes the importance of spiritual healing and advice for people while also suggesting medical assistance when required.

Electricity's Impact on a Village

• 00:18:47 The arrival of electricity in a remote village brings excitement and opportunities for change. The villagers' hopes for improved education and the possibility of utilizing technology are highlighted. The changes that electricity has brought include easier access to resources and cold storage, leading to a brighter and more hopeful future for the inhabitants.