December 13, 2024
THIMPHU – Sither Lhamo, 90, is a master weaver from Khoma, Lhuentse. On Tuesday, December 10, she received the Living Legend Award in Weaving Culture for her contribution from Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck.
The Weaving Into the Future Programme was organised by the Royal Textile Academy (RTA) in Thimphu.
Sither Lhamo began her weaving journey at the age of 14 and dedicated 76 years to mastering and preserving the culture, making her the oldest weaver in Khoma. She is the first recipient of the Living Legend Award.
“I never dreamed that I would receive an award from Her Majesty. It is an honour to receive this recognition and to have the chance to meet Her Majesty in person,” Sither Lhamo said.
Although her vision has weakened significantly, Sither Lhamo is still able to weave, albeit with the help of glasses.
Sither Lhamo’s husband passed away when she was 35, and she lost her daughter three years ago. Since then, she has been living alone.
For her, weaving is more than just a skill, it is a way of life and her primary source of income.
The director of the RTA, Ugyen Tenzin, said, “This award is unique, as it is not presented annually and is solely merit-based. It is reserved for individuals whose contributions have stood the test of time, leaving a lasting impact on Bhutan’s cultural heritage.”
Sither Lhamo was given a cash prize of Nu 100,000, a certificate, and a statue of Tshepamey.
As a weaver and cultural icon, Sither Lhamo has played an important role in preserving the tradition of Kishuthara weaving in the country.
Renowned for its intricate patterns and meticulous craftsmanship, Kishuthara reflects the rich heritage and artistry of Bhutanese textiles.
Funded by the William H. Geiger Family Foundation Inc., the The Living Legend Award celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to safeguarding Bhutan’s rich textile heritage while promoting community development through the hand-woven textile industry.