Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory—a place where tradition and innovation merge to create a legacy that stretches back through generations. At its helm is Tshering Dorji, a 46-year-old entrepreneur, whose mission is to preserve and promote the art of traditional handmade paper, a cherished legacy that began its journey under the auspices of the Ministry of Trade and Industry in 1990.
The roots of the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory run deep, firmly planted in the foundation of Bhutanese culture and heritage. In 1992, Tshering’s father, Norbu Tenzin, took over the factory and transformed it into a private family business, passing on the mantle of responsibility from one generation to another. The factory’s storied history is closely intertwined with the sacred Deshho paper—an artisanal marvel made from the bark of the Daphne Papyracea tree.
Each sheet of Deshho paper is a testament to the unwavering commitment and skill of the craftsmen who have honed their trade over years of dedicated practice. Tshering Dorji, as the second-generation torchbearer, followed in his father’s footsteps, imbibing the essence of the craft from an early age. His passion for preserving traditional handmade paper led him on a transformative journey to Japan, where he spent three years mastering the art and acquiring invaluable insights into the realm of papermaking.
With a heart brimming with devotion for his country’s heritage, Tshering returned to Thimphu, infused with a renewed purpose. “Since my childhood, I usually came to my father’s workplace. I have been drawn more into the paperwork,” he reminisces fondly, a reflection of his unwavering connection to the family business.
Under his stewardship, the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory has flourished, breathing new life into the traditional craft. Today, the factory produces a wide array of Deshho paper products, from postcards and notebooks to stationery and Scrabble tiles. Moreover, their commitment to customization ensures that customers can infuse their own personality and preferences into the paper, forging a strong bond between the artist and their work.
However, the journey has not been without its share of challenges. The factory currently grapples with a price crisis and faces stiff competition from other countries. Rising raw material costs have made it difficult to reduce prices, leaving the team at Jungshi determined to find innovative ways to overcome this obstacle. Tshering Dorji, ever the visionary, believes that maintaining unwavering quality standards will be their key to surpassing international competitors.
During this arduous journey, Tshering looks up to his father as his guiding light. Though not an official mentor, his father serves as a role model, showcasing innovative business acumen and unwavering commitment to the trade. The bond between father and son is a testament to the seamless blend of traditional values and contemporary ideas that fuel the success of Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory.
Today, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory stands as a remarkable tale of art, devotion, and ecological responsibility. It embraces the duality of preserving ancient practices while embracing modern innovations. The factory’s commitment to sustainability and consideration for the environment echoes through every sheet of Deshho paper produced.
As a seasoned businessman with over 35 years of success, Tshering Dorji imparts valuable advice to budding entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of motivation, maintaining steadfastness, and embracing passion and hard work. To him, entrepreneurship is a challenging yet rewarding journey, one that can be conquered with unwavering commitment to dreams and aspirations.
In the ever-changing landscape of commerce, Tshering Dorji’s story stands as a shining beacon of how tradition and innovation can harmoniously coexist, creating a better, more sustainable world for generations to come. His journey is a testament to the power of vision and dedication, reminding us all that with a heart full of passion, success is not just a possibility, but an inevitable reality.
By Tendrel Zangmo
