Childhood in Red Robes: A Glimpse into Monastic Life at Paro Dzong in Paro, Bhutan

​In Bhutan, many young boys become monks to ease the burden on their families. These boys often come from poor families and hope that by joining a monastery, they can receive food, religious education, and health services. Becoming a monk also helps secure their future and helps them spiritually. However, once they join the monastery, many lose out on the chance to play and enjoy their childhood. Despite this, their devotion to their faith and hope for a better future keeps them committed to their monastic lives. As a photographer, I was thrilled when I was given permission to photograph young monks at Paro Dzong, the administrative seat of Paro district in Bhutan. Together with some colleagues I spent the better part of the morning there, capturing images of the young monks as they went about their daily routines. To thank the young monks for their patience with us, we bought them juices and sweets. It was heartwarming to see the joy that such a small gesture brought to these young monks, who lead such disciplined and rigorous lives - Paro Dzong in Paro, Bhutan