Bhutan celebrated its 100th National Day yesterday. The glory of the day was evident in the clear blue skies and the warmth of the clear December 17 sun as Bhutanese all over the kingdom celebrated the 100th National Day.
From remote Gasa to the capital city, the day was a festive one as Bhutanese from all walks of life gathered to celebrate a historic day, a day that ended years of civil unrest and ushered unprecedented peace and prosperity in the land of the Peaceful Dragon.
In the capital the 100th National day assumed special significance as the people of Bhutan joined their Majesties the Kings in the celebrations.
Tens of thousands of people from the valley and the neighbouring areas poured into the grounds occupying every available space to join in the celebrations.
Thousands across the kingdom tuned into BBS TV and Radio for the LIVE coverage of the celebrations.
Their Majesties the Queens and the royal family, the Prime Minister, representatives of the clergy, the armed forces, government, the political parties, students, the international community and people gathered to celebrate National Day.
His Majesty the King and the portrait of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was escorted to the celebrations ground by an elaborate traditional chipdrel procession where a marchang ceremony was held and a guard of honour was presented by the armed forces.
His Majesty the King addressed the nation on this special and auspicious occasion of 100th National Day. Addressing the nation, His Majesty the King on behalf of the people of 20 dzongkhags expressed gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo for bringing in peace and prosperity in the country and prayed for the long life of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.
His Majesty said today is an occasion for the people of 20 dzongkhags to pay tribute to His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo and reaffirm our pledge to serve the country with utmost loyalty and dedication.
His Majesty said today’s celebrations is not to mark 100 years of monarchy. His Majesty said it is to rejoice the socio-economic development, achievements and peace and prosperity that Bhutan has enjoyed so far under the leadership of our benevolent monarchs.
His Majesty said the first and foremost task before every Bhutanese at this moment is to ensure the success of parliamentary democracy. His Majesty said the democratic system of governance has to take firm roots so that it benefits the country and its people.
His Majesty said the future of Bhutan is today’s youth. The most important thing that the young Bhutanese should bear in mind is that they have an important responsibility of taking Bhutan forward. His Majesty said the country’s future will be determined by the capability, conduct and attitude of the young people.
His Majesty also commended and expressed gratitude to the civil servants for their service. He said with the change in governance, Civil Servants have an important responsibility.
His Majesty expressed gratitude to the aspiring politicians for sacrificing their profession to take part in this historic political changes taking place in the country. His Majesty said aspiring politicians have an important role to build healthy democracy and ensure peace and unity among the people.
His Majesty said, His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo has handed over a secure and sovereign nation to the future generation. His Majesty said people should ensure the success of parliamentary democracy initiated by His Majesty the 4th King.
His Majesty said until now he has never failed in his duty as a King, which is to serve the country and the people. He said he will fulfill his duty in future as well.
His Majesty closed the address by reiterating the importance of every Bhutanese joining hands to fulfill the national vision of One Nation One People.
For the Bhutanese the day was an occasion to reflect back upon days of peace and prosperity enjoyed under the dynamic leadership of the Wangchuck dynasty and reaffirm their loyalty and dedication to the TSA-Wa-Sum. Source: Kuenselonline
