A Coronation in the Himalayas

The coronation of the Maharaja of Bhutan in October 1952. The camerman trekked eight days by mule to the remote city of Paro to film the occasion. Bhutanese troops, some in modern uniform and others in ancient Mongolian-style battle dress with shields and helmets, turn out to welcome the party. Processions of Indian troops, Bhutanese troops and lamas on the Coronation Day; the Coronation ceremony performed by Lamas and marked by the presentation of ceremonial scarves to the royal couple; the traditional dancing after the ceremony.