Bhutan Teer is a fascinating game that blends tradition, skill, and the thrill of a lottery. While it is widely popular in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan and its bordering Indian states, many people do not know that it is deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the region.
In this article, we will explore the history of Bhutan Teer, its evolution from a traditional sport, and how the game is played today.
The Historical Roots: Archery as a National Sport
To understand Bhutan Teer, one must first understand the importance of Archery in Bhutan. Archery (locally known as Dha) was declared the National Sport of Bhutan in 1971.
Historically, archery matches were not just competitions; they were social events that brought villages together. These matches were accompanied by traditional songs, dances, and elaborate feasts. Over time, the popularity of these matches led to the birth of “Teer” (which means ‘arrow’ in Hindi/Sanskrit), a unique lottery system based on the skill of the archers.
How Bhutan Teer Started
The transition from a pure sport to a lottery game began when spectators started predicting how many arrows would hit the target. What started as informal betting among friends eventually evolved into an organized lottery system.
Unlike traditional lotteries that use machines or software to generate random numbers, Bhutan Teer relies on the physical skill of professional archers. This transparency and human element are what make it so popular and trusted among the local population.
How the Game is Played: The Mechanics
Bhutan Teer is conducted in a very systematic way. Here is the step-by-step process:
- The Archers: A group of professional archers gathers at the designated Teer ground.
- The Rounds: The game is usually played in two rounds—First Round and Second Round.
- The Shooting: In each round, the archers shoot a specific number of arrows at a cylindrical target made of straw or bamboo from a distance of about 50 to 100 meters.
- The Calculation: Once the shooting is over, the total number of arrows that hit the target is counted.
- The Winning Number: The result is determined by the last two digits of the total count.
- Example: If 748 arrows hit the target in the first round, the winning number for that round is 48.
The Culture of “Dream Numbers”
A unique aspect of Bhutan Teer is the belief in Dream Numbers. Many players believe that their dreams are messages that can be decoded into numbers. For instance, dreaming of water might correspond to a specific number, while dreaming of a bird might mean another. There are “Teer Dream Charts” available that help players translate their subconscious thoughts into their daily picks.
Why is it Popular?
Bhutan Teer is more than just a game of luck; it is a source of entertainment and a way for people to stay connected to the national sport of archery. Because the results are based on an actual physical event happening in real-time, it maintains a high level of excitement and community participation.
Conclusion
Bhutan Teer is a beautiful example of how an ancient tradition can adapt to the modern world. It honors the skill of Bhutanese archers while providing a unique form of engagement for the public. Whether you are playing for fun or just interested in the culture, Bhutan Teer remains one of the most interesting lottery systems in the world.