Akabney (Dzongkha:བཀབ་ནེ་,Wylie:bkab-ne) is a silk sash worn as a part of thegho, the traditional male attire inBhutan.[1] It is raw silk, normally 90 cm × 300 cm (35 in × 118 in) with fringes. Kabney is worn over the traditional coatgho; it runs from the left shoulder to the right hip, and is worn at special occasions or when visiting adzong. Kabney is also referred asBura, which means wild silk.
The use ofgho and kabney is encouraged in Bhutan as a part ofdriglam namzha (ordriklam namzhak), the official code of etiquette and dress code of Bhutan. Gho is compulsory for schoolboys and government officials.[1][2] The female traditional dress is calledkira; a rachu is worn over the traditional dress kira.[1][3]
The rank and social class of the bearer determines the permissible color of the scarf:[4][2][5][6]
Orange sash for Lyonpos (ministers and other members of the government).[2]
Red sash forDashos (male members of theroyal family and higher officials).[2] The red scarf can also be conferred upon Bhutanese civilian, as it is one of highest honors a Bhutanese civilian can receive, and comes directly from the throne in recognition of an individual's outstanding service to the nation.[7]
White sash without fringes for Secretary of various Ministries and Zimpoen to The King. Also awarded to distinguished individuals for various achievements and contributions.[9]
White sash with red stripes for Gups (headmen of the 205gewogs).[10]
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