SIMILARITY BETWEEN BHUTANESE "NGAR" AND FINNISH "SISU"

A few years ago, when His Majesty the King emphasized Bhutanese to inculcate "ngar," many local Sambotas and Shakespeares rubbed their heads to grasp the lexicology of the term and its nuanced meaning. Translations, including but not limited to perseverence, grit, courage, determination, relentlessness, toughness, and more, were proposed.

I also contributed my own interpretation at the time.

To be frank, no single definition was entirely correct or entirely wrong.

Recently, while watching a Finnish film on Netflix, I encountered the term "sisu." The film was inspired by this uniquely Finnish concept. Similar to "ngar," "sisu" defies easy translation into English; it encompasses strength, will, determination, perseverance, and rational action in adversity.

"Sisu" is not mere momentary courage; it is the capacity to sustain that courage—much like "ngar." Coincidentally, the both words have four alphabets each.

What is particularly intriguing is the Finnish assertion that "sisu" is untranslatable—a sentiment we also feel applies to "ngar." This similarity highlights the shared depth and complexity of these lexicons.

By the way, this film is also available on YouTube for those who do not have Netflix package.