National day has been always an awaited and significant moment for every citizens of Bhutan. The first King of Bhutan, Druk Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned on 17th December, 1907. Ever since , December 17 is celebrated as National day of Bhutan. This year the theme of National Day celebration is Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Technology.
In preparation for the 115th National Day, a number of events took place all over the country. The main celebrations took place at the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu.Most of the people arrived at Changlimithang stadium before midnight to take part in the national day. Thousands of people gathered at the stadium to witness the celebration.The celebration were graced by the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, His Majesty the fifth king, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and members of the Royal Family.
His majesty addressed about The amazing fortitude, capability, and selflessness of the Bhutanese people during this pandemic. Damtsi is what we call our infinite commitment to our duty and undying allegiance to one another.
His Majesty shard five main points to the nation:
We learnt a lot from the pandemic and whether it be the next pandemic, war, natural disaster, or other crisis, we must be prepared for it.
The current economic crisis must be anticipated because it will undoubtedly have an effect on Bhutan.
The nation-wide transformation process has only been able to get off to a promising start thanks to the people's unwavering support. His majesty shared that we must now monitor this procedure to ensure our success.
Drugs and substances abuse is one issue that poses a serious threat to our national security, economy, people's and children's welfare, and most importantly, the future of our country. His majesty told that we cannot allow substance misuse to spread among our children because it is already a problem. We must take action right away to eliminate this menace before it is too late.
It was genuinely amazing how hard Bhutanese struggled to keep the country safe throughout the pandemic. His majesty shared that by keeping the same momentum, We will be able to accomplish all of our objectives.
As recognition of National day,
Majesty, His The King awarded the Red Scarf to Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji for his contributions to the country while serving as the foreign minister, the Druk Thuksey Medal to Pawo Choyning Dorji for his outstanding work on Bhutanese cinema, the National Order of Merit (Gold) to Namgay Dorji, Lhaten Dorji and Kinley wangchuk for serving the Nation through their contributions in promoting Bhutan's cultural heritage.
The afternoon celebration ended with Trashilaebae joined by the royals, ministers and the people. The celebration was followed by actors and singers performing dances and songs that they prepared for long time. All Bhutanese, including those who reside outside of Bhutan, have celebrated the National Day as it is a momentous occasion. For all the Bhutanese people, this day was the joyful,happiest, most unforgettable and memorable occasion.