So here we were, in a religious and cultural festival in Bhutan, and the monks are coming out of the temple in a procession. It’s solemn, with the head monk swinging an incense burner and wearing a headdress. He walks past me, solemnly, and stops just to my left. I look down, (I’m already on my knees to keep a low profile) spot the red All Star sneakers, and almost let out a laugh! They were so perfect with his robes, and comfortable no doubt. I’m guessing he chose red ones to match his ‘outfit’. So much for monks leading spartan lives devoid of decoration! That’s the contrast of Bhutan – monks with cell phones, ipods, and cool shoes.
Ha ha, John! But they do love to buy the name brands – or knockoffs of them anyway…
You sort of expect worn out sandals, not new (or so it appears) tennis shoes. Must be a Famous Footwear in the neighborhood. Nice catch!
It is the effect of the globalization. Yet very cool and great photo.
Yes it is. Simone. And I’m not sure I like that, but then who am I to suggest that they stay back in the 20th century forever…so as a photographer, I photograph the contrasts and changes as they are just as important to document as the traditions.
Thank you for your comments, both of you!
Oh, Jesus. There goes the “gross national happiness” index.
Well, so far it’s still only a small percentage of the population that has these things and mostly the bigger towns. But when Westerners give their ‘old’ iPhones to drivers and guides, etc. things can begin to change even more rapidly. But then just being open to the world creates a radical change in the goods now coming from India and China.