Kinley, an entrepreneur from Bumthang, was once deeply involved in the construction business. But when the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it brought his business to a standstill. Like many others, he faced financial uncertainty and a difficult decision: give up or start again. Kinley chose the latter.
In early 2024, with a renewed sense of purpose, Kinley launched Dhewa—a unique business that focuses on promoting a vegan and plant-based lifestyle in Bhutan. Unlike his previous venture in construction, Dhewa is rooted in wellness, sustainability, and compassion.
“Starting over wasn’t easy,” Kinley shared. “But I’ve always believed that business should do more than just earn profit—it should serve a greater purpose.”
Dhewa offers a range of vegan products, including plant-based food items, healthy snacks, supplements, and personal care goods. All products are made from natural, cruelty-free ingredients, supporting the idea of clean living and mindful choices. The brand is built on Bhutanese values of respect for nature, non-violence, and spiritual well-being.
Dhewa isn’t just about selling products. Kinley envisions it as a platform to raise awareness and inspire lifestyle changes. In the near future, Dhewa plans to introduce workshops, cooking classes, and community events to help people learn more about veganism, how to cook plant-based meals, and how to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.
“Our mission is to offer delicious and ethical vegan alternatives that also reflect Bhutanese culture,” Kinley explained. “We want people to know that going vegan doesn’t mean giving up your roots—it can be a way to live more in harmony with them.”
At its heart, Dhewa is not just a business—it’s a movement. Kinley’s vision is to create a world where plant-based choices are not just accepted but embraced. A world where health, compassion, and tradition can coexist beautifully. He believes that a vegan lifestyle aligns perfectly with Bhutanese values and Buddhist teachings, which emphasize compassion for all living beings and a deep connection with nature.
By combining modern health trends with Bhutan’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, Dhewa stands out as a pioneering venture in the country. Kinley hopes that his journey can also inspire others—especially those who may have faced failure or setbacks—to start again with purpose and passion.
As Dhewa continues to grow, Kinley remains focused on expanding its reach, building partnerships with local producers, and empowering more Bhutanese to adopt a plant-based lifestyle that nurtures the body, the mind, and the planet.
