“Literature cultivates good attitudes”
Five new Dzongkha books released
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27 January, 2010 – “Literature cultivates good attitudes which can contribute to strengthening a nation’s spiritual well-being,” according to prime minister, Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y Thinley who released five new Dzongkha books on Monday, January 25.
“In the olden days people changed their minds after listening to Bhutan’s literary tradition- religious texts and Namthar (biographies). Similarly, the newly composed Dzongkha literature could help change the mind of people in today’s material world.”
The five new books – Dzongkha-English phonetic dictionary, Guidelines on usage of proverbs, A guide to Dzongkha honorific and polite usage, Teaching methodology and official correspondence were the work of four Dzongkha experts. The books were published by Dzongkha Development Training Institute (DDTI), a private institute in Thimphu. About 3,000 copies each were published at the time of launch.
The author, Kuenlay Gyeltshen, who is also the director of DDTI, said the books could help promote both written and spoken national language, Dzongkha and contribute towards achieving one of the pillars of Gross National Happiness-promoting culture.
Dzongkha literature as the vital ingredient of a country’s identity had managed to assert its independence, said the prime minister. “Ask ourselves why do Bhutan remain unique and independent? It is because of our culture,” said the Lyonchhoen.
Speaking on the importance of literature at the launch, the prime minister said that Bhutanese literature attributed towards nation’s security and independence. “Literature, such as written, spoken, art, music and oral story telling enrich good thinking. With the emergence of more writers and books today, the national language could grow,” he said.
Using English widely for communication would impact negatively on the national language and therefore the culture, identity and sovereignty of Bhutan.
“Your contribution will promote culture and the national language which will benefit the people and the entire country,” said the prime minister.
Source: kuenselonline