The Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche is observed in Bhutan on June 24 every year. This public holiday commemorates the birthday of Padmasambhava, an influential figure in Tibetan Buddhism who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. According to legend, in the eighth century, Guru Rinpoche flew to a cave in Bhutan from Tibet on the back of his wife, Yeshe Tsogyal, whom he transformed into a tigress. He meditated in this cave for an extended period, leading to the construction of the Paro Taktsang monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, around it. The holiday is marked by religious ceremonies held in Buddhist temples throughout the country, reflecting the significance of Guru Rinpoche in Bhutan's state religion. His efforts in spreading Buddhism and taming local demons earned him the title "Guru Rinpoche," meaning "precious teacher."