116th National Day

It has been 116th years since the people of Bhutan had been enjoying the peace and prosperity under the leadership of Wangchuk dynasty. It was in 1907 when Gongar Ugyen Wangchuk was enthroned as the first king of Bhutan by signing a historic Genja. Since then Bhutan has prospered socially, economically, traditionally and culturally ever more than yesterday. 

Every year on 17th December people from all pockets of the country gather together to celebrate unity and shared identity. The celebration even goes beyond the boundary of Bhutan for those living abroad. 

It is a day to pay our gratitude to our great kings for their self-less leadership. It is a day to applaud how far Bhutan has come. There was a time when Bhutan was just a small land but today Bhutan and GNH is uttered and envied by all the outside eyes. This has helped Bhutan to become one of the top tourist destinations in the world. 

 

It is also a day to take pride in being Bhutanese. Regionalism should be forgotten and we should remember at heart we are all Bhutanese and we have a common identity. 

Unlike the past National Days this year it is rather special as we were recently blessed with a Royal Princess and the fact that Bhutan is entering a different phase of transformation. Everything is undergoing change and certain reforms have alarmed so many of us. Many of our friends left abroad for better opportunities and it is concerning how the houses are being emptied every day. This will continue if we don't act today.

We must remember that the change is inevitable and if we wish to enjoy the same peace and prosperity we must all wake up and welcome the change. We must adapt to the changing environment. Globally the countries are developing at the speed of light so Bhutan can’t afford to just sleep. We know how His Majesty is spending sleepless nights so isn’t it the duty of we people to do something? 

This National Day we should all brace ourselves for a greater battle and fight together. 

We have fought our battles till today so we shall fight till the end and make a better Bhutan for our future generations. 

HAPPY 116TH NATIONAL DAY!!!