Kabney

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (edit)

Kabney is a traditional scarf worn by men in Bhutan, a small kingdom in the Eastern Himalayas. It holds significant cultural and social importance within Bhutanese society and is an integral part of the national dress. The Kabney is worn over the traditional garment known as the Gho, a knee-length robe tied at the waist by a belt called a Kera. The Kabney extends from the left shoulder to the right hip and is made of raw silk with various colors denoting the wearer's status or rank within the society.

Colors and Significance

The color of the Kabney is highly significant and denotes the rank or status of the wearer. The following are the colors worn by different ranks within Bhutanese society:

• Yellow Kabney: Worn exclusively by the King of Bhutan and the Je Khenpo (the chief abbot of Bhutan). The yellow color signifies authority and respect.
• Orange Kabney: Worn by members of the National Assembly, signifying their important role in the country's governance.
• Red Kabney: Worn by government ministers and officials of high rank. The red Kabney is a symbol of responsibility and service to the nation.
• Green Kabney: Worn by judges of the Judiciary of Bhutan, symbolizing justice and impartiality.
• White Kabney with red stripes: Worn by common men, symbolizing purity and loyalty to the king. The white Kabney is the most commonly seen version and is worn by the general populace during national events and festivals.
• Blue Kabney: Worn by members of the National Council of Bhutan, representing their duty to advise the King and government.

Cultural Importance

The Kabney is more than just a piece of clothing in Bhutan; it is a symbol of a person's role, responsibility, and respect in the society. It is an essential part of the national identity and is worn with pride by Bhutanese men during formal occasions, religious ceremonies, and national festivals. The Kabney, along with the Gho, was mandated as the national dress in the 17th century by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche, to create a unique Bhutanese identity.

Regulations

The government of Bhutan has set strict regulations regarding the wearing of the Kabney. Only Bhutanese citizens are permitted to wear it, and there are specific guidelines on how it should be worn and on what occasions. Foreign dignitaries visiting Bhutan are often presented with a Kabney as a sign of respect and friendship, but they are not allowed to wear it within the country.

Conclusion

The Kabney is a significant symbol of Bhutanese culture and tradition, representing the wearer's social status, professional role, and allegiance to the king and country. It is a unique aspect of Bhutan's national dress that has been preserved and respected throughout the centuries, embodying the values and identity of the Bhutanese people.