YK Poudel

More than 500 Bhutanese are expected to gather in Queens, New York, on Saturday, December 21, to celebrate the 117th National Day.

The event, organised annually by the United Bhutanese Association in New York (UBANY), is held on weekends to accommodate the work schedules of Bhutanese living in the United States. “Tuesday is a working day here, so we celebrate the occasion on weekends,” said Ulap Leki, president of UBANY.

Established in 2012, UBANY plays a vital role in fostering a sense of community among the Bhutanese diaspora. The association organises events such as the National Day, the birth anniversary of His Majesty The King, Losar, and Zhabdrung Kuchoe to keep Bhutanese traditions alive.

“The programme is initiated aimed at inculcating Bhutanese etiquette among Bhutanese children and youth born and brought up in the US,” he said.

Currently, there are around 300 Bhutanese youth in the US.

Bhutan’s ambassador to the United Nations, dignitaries from UN member states, senior UN officials, and other guests will attend the celebration.

Karma, an official from Bhutan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, said that this year’s celebration will feature cultural performances, the Bhutanese national anthem, and presentations showcasing Bhutan’s tourism opportunities. “Bhutan’s national anthem, songs and cultural performances will be performed.”

A lottery draw will also be held, with substantial cash prizes.

“National Day is a time to celebrate Bhutan’s rich heritage and pay tribute to the legacy of our great monarchs,” Ulap Leki said. “The programme will make an expenditure over USD 30,000. The Permanent Mission of Bhutan to the UN has been supporting such programmes engaging Bhutanese diaspora in the US.”

Kinga Kinley Tshering, 34, a student, expressed mixed emotions about celebrating the occasion away from home. “It feels a little unusual celebrating on a different day, but it is heartening to see the community come together,” he said. “I watched His Majesty’s Royal Address online at the Changlimithang yesterday, and realised Bhutan is going to transform into an economic hub through the Gelephu Mindfulness City.”