Chorten Kora Encounter, 1995

This is Chorten Kora in Eastern Bhutan in 1995. I went there with a driver and guide on the way to Samdrup Jonkhar. We stopped nearby to have a picnic lunch, and a small group of little boys appeared. Not many chilips (foreigners) made it all the way to Chorten Kora. My guide said, "Would you like to say hello to them in their language, Sharchop?" "Of course," I  said, eager to have a moment with the locals. He said a phrase and I repeated it. He shook his head, yes, all innocent and helpful.  Then I said it very loudly to the little boys, and at first they looked startled. Then they all started laughing. I thought they were really surprised I spoke in their language. But no, that wasn't it. It turns out the guide had taught me something nasty and vile to say. I figured it out because after that the boys followed me everywhere, laughing and yelling the phrase. It still makes me laugh to think of this little trick. I never knew exactly what I said, but I know it must have been bad. Here's a picture of the little boys after I said it: