essay on national day of bhutan

BHUTAN TODAY The New Perspective

𝐍𝐮 𝟓.𝟑 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬
𝐓𝐢𝐤𝐭𝐨𝐤 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬
𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞
𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐦𝐨
𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐡𝐚 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬

Our National Day

December 17 is an important day in the history of Bhutan. It marks the Coronation day of Druk Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck who became the first King of Bhutan in 1907. It was on this day, the Hereditary Monarchy was established and the country came under Wangchuck Dynasty.

December 17 today is celebrated throughout the country as an auspicious and special day. On this occasion of great importance, the whole nation comes together in grand celebration of the day. The commemoration of this day serves to remind the citizens of the country about the profound sacrifices of the benevolent forefathers, who worked tirelessly for the well being of the country and its people. The day allows the fellow countrymen to express their gratitude to those noble generations who gifted a strong, sovereign nation to them.

The history dates back to 1616 when Zhabdrung visited the country. Bhutan was unified by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who reigned for 35 years. The death of Zhabdrung in 1651 was followed by 225 years of instability in the country. The political vacuum created during the early 1900s filled with internal conflicts and civil war, was blessing in disguise for Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck. It was in 1906 when Drungpa Ugyen Dorji submitted a petition to the Lhengye Zhungtshog stating that the Dual System of the Government of the time has failed to bring peace and harmony in the country. It was then the first Druk Gyalpo was crowned. The monarchy brought peace, unity and prosperity in the country that had previously experienced years of internal and external threat.

The nation building process and all the major changes in the country has been initiated from the throne. The reunification of the country, the introduction of the tax reforms, introducing modern education and ending the state of isolation by making international relationship are among the many changes that have shaped Bhutan as a sovereign nation. The day is celebrated only once in a year where Bhutanese people gather together to pay tribute to the monarchs that ruled our country in extraordinary manner and also to offer prayers forever lasting peace and prosperity.

Chief Executive Officer of Thuksey Research and Consultancy, Dr. Singye Namgyel said, “National Day is a great occasion to remember how our nation got unified under the visionary monarchs. It is a day for the citizens to celebrate together and be united.” He advised that the people must forget all the differences and be proud as a Bhutanese.

A student from Sherubtse College, Sonam Tshering expressed his prayers and good wishes to the King, country and its people. He added, “It gives me immense satisfaction and determination in continuing with the same spirit and same thoughts towards the nation and our visionary monarchs,” Apart from the celebration within the country, Bhutanese living outside the country is also observing the significant day.

Sonam Peden studying in Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan also shared her excitement. She said that she would see Bhutanese people gathering and celebrating the national day not just within the country but also within the Bhutanese communities all over the world. “This year, I will be attending a ‘Bhutan Day’ event at Waseda University in Tokyo for the first time and I am so excited to wear kira, meet with other Bhutanese people, and maybe even eat Bhutanese food together.”

Chimmi Eden Wangmo, a Bhutanese residing in Perth, Australia, said that there is an Association of Bhutanese in Perth (ABPI), which holds important events including the national day and birth anniversaries of the Druk Gyalpos. She added, “Despite tight schedules and busy lives, we will observe the day, joining hands with the other Bhutanese to celebrate the remarkable day.”

Aum Rinchen summed up the significance of the Day. “How far have we come as a nation,” she said. “We used to do back breaking work to making our ends meet. Today most of the youth take these things for granted.” Her brother, Namgay, 78, said that without the monarchs, Bhutan would have been any other country in the region. “We stand out because of the visions of our country,” said the retired lam. “We are proud nations who can boast about our culture, traditions and unique philosophy of development.”

The 17th of December is the day on which the people are reminded to reaffirm their pledges to shoulder the important responsibility to serve the nation with the best of abilities.

By Pema Choden & Kinley Wangchuk

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Bhutan National Day – December 17, 2024

The Bhutan National Day in modern Bhutan is celebrated glamorously every December 17. The Changlimithang Stadium is already getting prepared for December 17, as has been done in previous years. Do you know the Bhutan National Holiday dates back as far as 1907? The holiday commemorates the coronation of the first king of Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck, as the first Druk Gyalpo. This is a reason his statue is carried during processions on every holiday.

History of Bhutan National Day

During the early 17th century, Bhutan experienced its first unification by a Buddhist monk, Ngawang Namgyal. Bhutan at that time was ruled by the Tibetan dual system of government where Zhabdrung — reincarnations of the mind, body, and speech was practiced, and Ngawang Namgyal was the leader. During the late 19th century, the Tibetan and the British empire had different ideas about how Bhutan should be governed. This led to an outbreak of war between Tibet and the British empire.

Regional leaders in Bhutan began struggling with one another for power. This led Ugyen Wangchuck, the Ponlop of Tongsa in central Bhutan, to stand out. He united the country and built a better relationship with British India. When Ugyen Wangchuck became the dominant leader in Bhutan, religious leaders and government officials held a meeting and decided to abolish the 300-year-old dual system of the previous government style of governance and establish a new one. They eventually settled for monarchy and chose Ugyen Wangchuck as their king.

On December 17, 1907, the coronation of the first king Druk Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck was witnessed, establishing the Wangchuck dynasty, which is still ruling today. Druk Gyalpo is the official title given to the Bhutan head of state. It means “Dragon King” in Dzongkha. This is because Bhutan is also known as “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” about Druk, the mythical dragon that is also the national symbol of Bhutan. Unlike the Tshechu holidays, which are celebrated locally in Bhutan, the national holiday is celebrated nationally, shutting down all activities in the country, including government agencies, making it the most significant holiday in Bhutan.

Bhutan National Day timeline

This marks the coronation of the first king of Bhutan, which commemorates the National Day celebration.

Bhutan joins the United Nations to strengthen its sovereign status further.

Bhutan joins the Non-Aligned Movement.

The fourth king leads the nation’s security forces from the front to successfully uproot the foreign militants, beginning a new day for the nation’s military.

The fourth king of Bhutan establishes democracy in Bhutan, which culminates in Bhutan’s first democratic Parliamentary election in March.

Bhutan National Day FAQ s

What is national day.

National Day is a day set aside for celebrations to mark the nationhood of a nation or state.

Why do we celebrate National Day?

National Days are celebrated majorly to remind the people of how their country gained its sovereignty. It is also celebrated to increase patriotism.

What does the Bhutan National Day signify?

The day marked when Ugyen Wangchuck was elected as a hereditary king in 1907.

How to Observe Bhutan National Day

Shut down your office.

To celebrate this nationwide ceremony, all governmental Offices are shut down, and all attention is channeled to creating a remarkable memory of the celebration in the hearts of guests that have traveled near and far. This is the perfect day to shut down the office and observe!

Prepare to receive guests

Preparations are made from the department of Tourism to the Palace of the Druk to the Preparation of Changlingmithang Ground for the event. So everything is just prepared beautifully for the celebration of that glamorous day.

Visit the Changlingmithang Ground for the celebration

The Bhutanese move to the celebration ground where dignitaries from all walks of life will be present to celebrate the event with them. That could be a good place to be.

5 Facts About Bhutan National Day That Will Blow Your Mind

Commemorated the coronation of the first king.

The national event commemorates the coronation of the first king, so it reminds the Bhutanese of the bold step taken by their first king to bring unity to Bhutan.

Celebrated yearly in Bhutan since 1907

The National holiday has been celebrated yearly in Bhutan since its inception, rounding off to 114 National holidays in total.

Delegates come from around the world

During this celebration, delegates from different nations travel far and near to celebrate with the people of Bhutan, making it a popular event.

Changlingmithang Ground has been chosen

The Changlingmithang Ground/stadium, which was constructed in 1974 for the Coronation of the fourth Druk, has since been used continuously to celebrate the National Day

Statue of the first Druk Gyalpo

During the celebration of Bhutan National Day, the statue of the first Druk Gyalpo, Ugyen Wangchuck, is carried out during processions.

Why Bhutan National Day is Important

It is a time to rest and have fun.

It's a public holiday for almost everyone, a time most people use to rest and have fun. We love public holidays!

It strengthens family bonds

Friends and family travel down for the celebration, strengthening the family bond again. Get together with your family on this day.

It serves as a reminder to the Bhutanese

It reminds the Bhutanese of the freedom for Bhutan and how the first Druk Gyalpo, Ugyen Wangchuck helped in the mediation for the Bhutan nation. What’s not to love?

Bhutan National Day dates

Year	Date	Day
2024	December 17	Tuesday
2025	December 17	Wednesday
2026	December 17	Thursday
2027	December 17	Friday
2028	December 17	Sunday

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Bhutan National Day: A Celebration of Heritage and Unity

Bhutan National Day, celebrated on 17th December each year, is a significant occasion that holds great historical and cultural importance for the people of Bhutan. This day commemorates the birth of Bhutan’s first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, and signifies the unification of the country. In this article, we will explore the historical significance, traditional celebrations, key symbols, religious observances, festivities, national day foods, and the impact of tourism on Bhutan National Day.

Table of Contents

Historical Significance of Bhutan National Day

Birth of bhutan’s first king.

Bhutan National Day marks the birth anniversary of King Ugyen Wangchuck, who was born on 17th December 1862. King Ugyen Wangchuck played a vital role in unifying Bhutan under a central authority and is widely regarded as the founding father of modern Bhutan.

Unification of Bhutan

Bhutan National Day also signifies the unification of various warring regions of Bhutan into a single nation. Under the leadership of King Ugyen Wangchuck, Bhutan emerged as a unified and independent country in the early 20th century.

Transition to Democracy

In addition to its historical significance, Bhutan National Day also marks the transition to democracy in Bhutan. On this day in 2008, Bhutan successfully completed its peaceful transition from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional democracy, with the first general elections held to form a democratic government.

Celebration of Bhutan National Day

Bhutan National Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country. The day begins with traditional ceremonies and is followed by cultural performances, parades, and the hoisting of the national flag.

Traditional Ceremonies

On Bhutan National Day, traditional ceremonies take place at the Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government. Monks chant prayers, and traditional rituals are performed to invoke blessings for the country and its people.

Cultural Performances and Parades

Colorful cultural performances and parades are an integral part of the National Day celebrations. Dressed in traditional attire, Bhutanese people showcase their rich cultural heritage through folk dances, songs, and traditional music.

National Flag Hoisting

The hoisting of the national flag is a significant moment during the National Day celebrations. The flag, adorned with colorful symbols and dragons of Bhutan, is raised high, symbolizing the unity and pride of the nation.

Key Symbols and Colors

Bhutan National Day is closely associated with key symbols and colors that represent the identity and values of the country.

The National Flag

The national flag of Bhutan features a white dragon, known as Druk, against a background of orange and yellow. The dragon represents Bhutan’s sovereignty and strength, while the orange symbolizes Buddhism, and the yellow represents the secular authority of the king.

The National Emblem

The national emblem of Bhutan is a circle that contains various symbolic elements. It includes a double-dorje (a sacred Tibetan symbol), a lotus blossom, jewels, a snarling snow lion, and a wish-fulfilling wheel. The emblem represents the principles of Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism and the harmonious coexistence of secular and spiritual power.

The National Anthem

The national anthem of Bhutan, known as “Druk Tsendhen,” is sung with great pride and reverence during the National Day celebrations. It reflects the deep-rooted spiritual values and devotion to the country’s leadership and people.

Religious Observances

Religion plays a vital role in the lives of the Bhutanese people, and Bhutan National Day provides an opportunity to honor and engage in religious observances.

Tsechus (Religious Festivals)

Tsechus, or religious festivals, are an integral part of Bhutanese culture and are celebrated on various occasions, including Bhutan National Day. These festivals feature masked dances, music, and performances that depict ancient legends and stories. Tsechus bring together communities, offering a spiritual and festive experience.

Prayer Flags and Prayer Wheels

Prayer flags and prayer wheels are commonly seen throughout Bhutan. Prayer flags, inscribed with sacred mantras and prayers, are hung in auspicious locations to spread positive energy and blessings. Prayer wheels, often found in monasteries, contain scrolls with prayers written on them. Spinning a prayer wheel is believed to have the same effect as reciting the prayers.

Festivities and Events on Bhutan National Day

Bhutan National Day is marked by various festivities and events that showcase the cultural vibrancy and diversity of the country.

Archery Competitions

Archery holds a special place in Bhutanese culture and is considered the national sport. During National Day celebrations, archery competitions are organized, bringing together participants from different regions to showcase their skills and foster friendly competition.

Masked Dances

Masked dances, known as cham dances, are performed during religious festivals and celebrations, including Bhutan National Day. These dances, accompanied by traditional music and intricate costumes, depict religious stories, legends, and spiritual teachings. They are a visual spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors.

Folk Music and Dance Performances

Folk music and dance performances are integral to Bhutan’s cultural heritage. During National Day, local artists and troupes showcase their talents by presenting traditional dances and melodious tunes that reflect the distinct traditions of different regions of Bhutan.

Bhutan National Day Foods and Drinks

Bhutan National Day is also a time for indulging in traditional Bhutanese cuisine and enjoying local beverages and drinks.

Traditional Bhutanese Cuisine

National Day is an opportunity to savor the rich and flavorful traditional Bhutanese cuisine. Dishes like Ema Datshi (cheese and chili), Suja (butter tea), and Red Rice are commonly enjoyed during this festive occasion. The use of local ingredients, aromatic spices, and traditional cooking methods contribute to the unique and delicious flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.

Local Beverages and Drinks

To complement the festive atmosphere, Bhutan offers a range of local beverages and drinks. Ara, a traditional distilled rice wine, is a popular choice among locals. Butter tea, made with butter, salt, and tea leaves, is a staple beverage that provides warmth and comfort during the chilly December days.

Bhutan National Day FAQs

1. What is the significance of Bhutan National Day?

Bhutan National Day holds historical and cultural significance as it commemorates the birth of Bhutan’s first king, symbolizes the unification of the country, and marks the transition to democracy.

2. How is Bhutan National Day celebrated?

Bhutan National Day is celebrated with traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, parades, the hoisting of the national flag, and various festive events throughout the country.

3. What are some key symbols of Bhutan?

Key symbols of Bhutan include the national flag featuring the white dragon, the national emblem, and the colors orange and yellow, representing Buddhism and the secular authority of the king.

4. What religious observances are associated with Bhutan National Day?

Bhutan National Day is an occasion for religious observances such as Tsechus (religious festivals), the display of prayer flags and prayer wheels, and honoring the importance of Buddhism in Bhutanese culture.

5. How does tourism contribute to Bhutan National Day?

Tourism plays a significant role during Bhutan National Day as visitors have the opportunity to engage in cultural tours, witness festive events, and explore the country’s natural beauty, thus contributing to the celebration and promotion of Bhutanese heritage.

Bhutan National Day is a cherished celebration that brings together the Bhutanese people and visitors from around the world to commemorate the birth of the country’s first king, celebrate its unification, and embrace the cultural richness of Bhutan. Through traditional ceremonies, vibrant performances, and the indulgence of traditional cuisine, this day serves as a reminder of Bhutan’s history, values, and the harmonious coexistence of tradition and progress. As tourists immerse themselves in the festivities and explore the natural wonders of Bhutan, they become part of a shared experience that fosters cultural exchange and appreciation. Bhutan National Day is a testament to the deep-rooted spirituality, unity, and pride of the Bhutanese people.

References:

“Bhutan National Day: Celebrating Unity and Heritage.” Bhutan Travel Bureau. https://www.bhutantravelbureau.com/bhutan-national-day/
“Bhutan National Day: A Celebration of History and Culture.” Tourism Council of Bhutan. https://www.tourism.gov.bt/annual-events/bhutan-national-day
“Bhutan National Day: Celebrating the Birth of a Nation.” Bhutan Times. https://bhutantimes.bt/2020/12/16/bhutan-national-day-celebrating-the-birth-of-a-nation/

National Day: the Story of Bhutan

The Trongsa valley, steeped in rich spiritual and political history, has been home to momentous events as Bhutan emerged from a mythological past, overcame an era of medieval intrigue, and evolved into a modern nation state. But the spirit of the 109th National Day of Bhutan is magical even by the standards of the Kingdom’s enchanted past.

This is a moment of pure tendryil. Never has there been such a culmination of history and legend, of the presence of figures of destiny, of spirituality in its most sacred form, and the almost unbelievable coincidences that prophesises the best for the future.

From the confines of his hermitage, a former Lam Neten of Trongsa who lived 60 years in Trongsa Dzong and then entered into meditation, explains that this is an extraordinary converging of the outer and inner blessings. The inner blessings are bestowed by the Kingdom’s guardian deities housed in the sacred lhakhangs of Trongsa Dzong which is also home to the second largest monastic body in the country. The outer blessings are personified by the physical presence of His Majesty The King, His Majesty Drukgyal Zhipa, and His Royal Highness The Gyalsey.

All this is taking place during the birth year of none other than Guru Rinpoche, the fourth century after Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel’s arrival in Bhutan, and the birth of Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck. It cannot be just coincidence that it is also the 10th year of His Majesty The King’s reign and the 12th year of His Majesty’s investiture ceremony as the Trongsa Penlop.

The celebration is taking place in this valley that is a massive natural cradle created by the sheer imposing ridges all around. Thousands of people of the Mangdue Tshozhi, acutely conscious of the spiritual and historical significance of their valley, are gathered in eager anticipation to greet three generations of the Royal lineage. Theirs is a land blessed by Longchhen Rabjam and Pema Lingpa and they are descendants of Trongsa’s Nyagoes and the country’s most famous singers.

Nestled on the natural contours of a strategic ridge in the centre of the valley sits the majestic Druk Minjur Chhoekhor Rabtentse Dzong, popularly called Trongsa Dzong. This edifice is a testimony of Bhutan’s architectural heritage and ancient Bhutanese cultural traditions.

But, beyond the physical magnificence, Trongsa Dzong stands as a tribute to Bhutan’s spiritual and political history. Crafted from a vision of Pelden Lhamo, this ancient monument is home to the heroes and legends – past and present – who built Bhutan. The dzong’s corridors, wide stone stairs, beautiful flagstone courtyards, and sacred temples have been witness to many significant events that have shaped Bhutanese history since the 16th century.

In 1543, Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk first saw a vision of Pelden Lhamo and constructed the Chorten Lhakhang, the oldest of the lhakhangs. In 1652, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel appointed, as the first Trongsa Penlop, Chhoeje Minjur Tenpa who constructed the first monastic fort as the Druk Minjur Choekhor Rabtentse, translated as “the Dzong of the never changing country of Druk where the dharma is everlasting”. Desi Tenzin Rabgye further enlarged the Dzong and consecrated the goenkhang of Pelden Lhamo and Yeshey Goembo in 1667. In 1715, Penlop Druk Dendrup built the Chenreyzig Lhakhang and, in 1765, the Trongsa Penlop, Zhidar, established the Trongsa Rabdey dratshang with 50 monks.

In 1853 Jigme Namgyel, the 10th Trongsa Penlop, built the Dechhog Lhakhang in the central section of the Dzong. According to legend two disciples of Lam Jangchu Tsindup came from Tibet with the sacred self created (rangjung) image of Dorji Phagmo, one of the 21 Rangjur Khartsa Pani, a religious relic formed miraculously from the spinal bone of Tshangpa Jarey, the patriarch of the Drukpa Kargyue sect. The scared rangjung was offered to Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyel and is today housed in a Gaw (amulet) placed at the centre of a life size silver image of the Dorji Phagmo in the Dechhog Lhakhang.

Trongsa Dzong is the cradle where the Wangchuck Dynasty was born. It is in this Dzong that the investiture ceremonies for Bhutan’s Crown Princes as the Trongsa Penlop are performed before they ascend the Golden Throne.

High above the valley, at a strategic vantage point over Trongsa Dzong, rises its watchtower, the Ta Dzong. This “tower of Trongsa” now tells the stories of the Dzong and the valley that it has watched over for centuries. His Majesty The King inaugurated the Ta Dzong in 2008 as a museum dedicated to the Wangchuck Dynasty, representing a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity. It houses ceremonial and personal belongings of the Kings and Queens of Bhutan including the Raven Crown and robes worn by Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, King Jigme Namgyel’s sword, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck’s wine flask and radio, and a full dress set of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

By celebrating National Day in Trongsa this year, His Majesty The King brings together the past, present, and future that His Majesty Himself personifies. This is where His Majesty held the last public discussion on the Constitution. It is a continuity of the history, legend, and mythology that is the basis of the Bhutanese identity.

Jigme Namgyel (1825 – 1881) is a Bhutanese hero who has not been much written about but whose life and achievements speak volumes. A descendant of the line of Dungkar Chhoejey, he came to Trongsa around 1843, in search of a dream that was already destined. He began his service of the nation as a common retainer for Penlop Ugyen Phuntsho and eventually drew Bhutan out of chaos, confusion and civil strife. A natural commander with diplomatic skills and long term vision, Jigme Namgyel overcame all challenges, conquered all adversaries and built a unified national polity to establish a new era of peace and stability.

Jigme Namgyel paved the way for absolute ascendency and established the foundations for the Wangchuck lineage. The era of peace and prosperity that is written as Bhutan’s recent history is not rhetoric. It was won with sharp vision, with conviction and strength, with bloodshed, and above all, with statecraft.

Thus His Royal Highness the Gyalsey – Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck – comes to Trongsa today from the past – from Bhutanese history. He personifies the return of destiny.

Why is all this a prophecy? When the Bhutanese people heard the name of the Gyalsey, we were taken back into the past. Yet we know that Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck will carry with him the sacred mandate of guiding Bhutan in his time. In essence the mandate has not changed. Jigme Namgyel of the past established the polity that came to be the shared consciousness of the Bhutanese identity. Jigme Namgyel of the future has the formidable task of strengthening this shared consciousness for Bhutan to survive and thrive for times to come.

This is the national consciousness that His Majesty The King continues to strengthen today as “One Nation One Vision”.

Contributed by

Dasho Kinley Dorji

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Historical 112th National Day

National Day (Gyalyong Duechen) in Bhutan is the most significant national event that is widely celebrated throughout the country on the 17th of December. The date marks the coronation of Ugyen Wangchuck as the first Druk Gyalpo (Monarch) of Bhutan. The significant event dates to 17th December 1907, when Gongsar Wangchuk was crowned the first king over a united Bhutan in the congregation hall of Punakha Dzong. This established the Wangchuck Dynasty which continues to rule Bhutan. According to the information in the Kuensel archives, the National Day was celebrated for the first time on 17 December 1971, sixty-four years after King Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned. Since then, the celebrations continued to become more elaborate and festive and the day was attributed with great national significance. The commemoration of this day serves to remind us of the profound sacrifices of our forefathers, who worked tirelessly for the wellbeing of our country and people. It is because of our forefathers that we can enjoy peace, prosperity and unity. The day allows us to express our gratitude to those who came before us for handing over a strong, sovereign nation to the future generations. It is a day on which our generation reaffirms our pledge to shoulder our important responsibility to serve the nation to the best of our abilities. This year, more than 20 thousand people celebrated National Day with His Majesty the King, His Majesty Drukgyal Zhipa, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Their Majesties The Queen Mothers and the Members of the Royal Family celebrated the 112th National Day in Thimphu. The ceremony started with the statue first king taking part in a parade towards national stadium followed by their majesties as the prodigious crowd who gathered for the event since midnight anticipated to get the rare glance of our royals especially the young crown prince Jigme Namgyal. For the record, a family arrived at the stadium around 11:00 P.M on the eve to be part of the historical event. Bhutanese speculators were found hassling to the stadium pass midnight and by 4 A.M, the stadium was fully occupied. The security personnel had to close the gate around 4:00 A.M of the 17th December and most had to go back home and watch the Live Telecast of the event. For the first time in the history of Bhutan, the largest number of Bhutanese People watched the sunrise together on the morning of National Day. This year the National Day was a remarkable day for several reasons. There was a flag-raising ceremony, a grand parade whereby different section of Royal Bhutan Army, Royal Bhutan Police, Desuups, Commandos, Pazaps and other personnel consisted of 2000 heads marching at the Stadium. The National Flag was also displayed by the Royal Bhutan Helicopter Service followed by cultural electrifying performances.

However, the Highlight of the day was

Bhutanese people cried tears of joy when His Majesty announced that Their Majesties are expecting their second child in spring, 2020.
His Majesty announced the "Gyalsuung" or the National Service Program for the youth of Bhutan to be instituted in 2022. A year-long training for those attaining the age of 18.

The one-year training will include a 3 months military-style training, and a 9-month program in areas like agriculture sciences, entrepreneurship, computers and coding, health sciences, etc. The National Day celebration also included 3 days' tour to Bhutanese Gastronomy and Culinary experience at the Traditional Food Village at the Coronation Park organized by the Tronga Poenlop Thuendrel Club. On the evening of National Day, the biggest light festival was hosted in Changlimithang where thousands of spectators watched the light show in Bhutan for the first time. This day, Bhutanese shall Rejoice!

1. Foremost concerns a. Economic Growth: Our neighbours, India and China, are experiencing unprecedented economic growth, propelled by technological advances in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automation, Big Data, Blockchain, Quantum Computers, and FinTech - Digital Currencies, Digital Wallets, Digital Banking. The world is changing rapidly. We cannot afford to avoid what we don’t yet understand, and hope for the best. Such an attitude will cost us our national objective of self reliance. We have to create economic opportunities for the next generation. It’s time to recalibrate ourselves to succeed in the fast-paced world. The government, lawmakers, the private sector, the people, and experts in various fields must work collectively to chart out a clear economic roadmap for the 21st Century- this will help every individual and entity to understand their respective roles and work towards a common national objective. b. We are yet to take full advantage of our small size, to better organise and manage ourselves. Larger countries are faced with challenges in communication and information sharing, and in building consensus and harmony. These lead to mismanagement, lack of responsibility and accountability, oversight, and failure to achieve results. As a small country, we should be more efficient and effective than others. We must be able to address challenges and seize opportunities promptly. It is time to acknowledge our shortcomings, and act swiftly to correct them. The government, lawmakers, civil service, and institutions must undertake the responsibility of restructuring and improving our laws, policies and procedures. c. Youth: It is in our hands to build a better future for our children. One of our most important national objectives, is to empower every single child in Bhutan for success. Bhutan’s future will be mirrored by the strength and capabilities of our youth. For our children to excel, they must adhere to the highest standards, and have capability, integrity, discipline, 21st century education, unity and solidarity. 2. Gyalsung to be instituted To address some of these concerns, Gyalsung (National Service) will commence from 2022. It will be a year-long training for those attaining the age of 18. The one year training will include a 3-month military style training, and a 9-month program in areas like agriculture sciences, entrepreneurship, computers and coding, health sciences, etc. Gyalsung will provide direction and encourage our youth to be strong, independent thinkers, capable of serving the country. It will bring the youth of Bhutan together in a shared experience and act as a rite of passage- irrespective of their economic or regional backgrounds. With this initiative, we are placing an immense responsibility on the shoulders of our children, and assuming an even greater responsibility ourselves, to nurture them and ensure their success. Moving forward, there will be nationwide consultations and an opportunity for the people to seek clarifications, and propose new ideas and recommendations. 3. His Majesty The King announced that Their Majesties are expecting a second Royal Child.

Writer - Tshering Denkar

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National Day

On 17 December 1907, religious and secular leaders from across Bhutan gathered in Punakha to unanimously elect Ugyen Wangchuck as the First Druk Gyalpo, or "Precious Ruler of the Dragon People" - Bhutan's first king. The date of his coronation has been celebrated ever since as Bhutan's National Day. Each year, His Majesty appears for an inspiring speech to the nation. The location for this address varies annually, and the place does not become known until mere days beforehand. Thimphu's National Day celebrations focus in Changlimithang Stadium, where banners stream from the spotlights and the national flag flutters from every flagpole. When His Majesty gives the speech from Thimphu, excited crowds fill the stands to watch a sumptuous procession that culminates in the address. Even when the speech occurs in another district, it appears on an enormous screen in the stadium in front of great crowds. Military parades and performances by all from schoolchildren to monks mark the occasion, with the latter participating in Buddhist rituals to request spiritual protection and guidance in the year ahead. Smaller parades and celebrations are held in each district, and dzongs and monasteries across the country burn bright with the light from thousands of flickering yak butter lamps, lit...

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111th National Day

Developer 12/15/2018 EDITORIAL Leave a comment 1,849 Views

Even the most causal observer would note that Bhutan’s National Day is gathering only more importance and value with each year.

It is not just a one-day celebration of Bhutan’s sovereign and united nationhood achieved under our Kings, but the one day has an important reverberation well beyond the event.

It is a day where Bhutan, led by His Majesty The King, further strengthens the national spirit and where His Majesty, as the head of the state, gives the long term view and continuity that is now even more important in a democracy where governments come and go every five years.

Bhutan is a unique country and democracy where our Kings are looked upon by the masses for inspiration, guidance and leadership.

It is amazing that in the many National Day addresses and actions till date, His Majesty has demonstrated the rare ability of having a true pulse on the nation and its people.

Bhutan has come this far and done far better than its neighbors and many countries around the world due to the wise and exemplary leadership of our Kings.

The 111th National Day is a time to not only reflect on the past and current but also to look to our North Star – His Majesty The King for direction and inspiration for our collective future national path.

“Every nation determines its own destiny; the cleverer the nation, the better the fate!” Mehmet Murat Ildan

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