The “Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal” folklore is one of Bhutan’s multicultural tales. In the seventeenth century, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher named Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal established the kingdom of Bhutan.

The tale claims that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal arrived in Bhutan in the 17th century after being driven out of Tibet. The Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism became the official religion as he united the nation under a singular theocratic rule.

The tolerance and understanding of variety that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal demonstrated led to the peaceful coexistence of various religious traditions in Bhutan. He promoted traditional Bhutanese building and painting, as well as the growth of the arts and culture.

Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is now recognized as one of Bhutan’s most important historical and cultural figures. His legacy of tolerance and acceptance of diversity has had a significant impact on the nation and its citizens, and it continues to motivate Bhutan’s dedication to fostering harmony and understanding between various cultures and faiths.