One of the highlights of His Majesty Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s golden reign would be the start of people power in Bhutan as people can elect the government in a democratic way. Bhutanese still vividly remember how the spectacular and emotional coronation took place in three stages.
In the first stage, His Majesty The Druk Gyalpo received the same Dar Na-Nga that was received by all the Monarchs of the Wangchuck dynasty from the sacred Machen of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in Punakha Dzong. The second stage was the crowing of His Majesty The Druk Gyalpo with the Raven Crown by His Majesty the Fourth King, which was a historical phenomenon, breathtaking and moving. And, the third was the three-day celebrations at Changlingmithang where people paid their homage to His Majesty by offering khaddar. It was indeed an experience of a lifetime for the Bhutanese young and old.
It was on November 7, the most profound, brilliant and heartfelt coronation speech was delivered that laid the cornerstones of His Majesty’s reign. One of the highlights from the speech that depicts our Druk Gyalpo is a Bodhisattva and a Dharma King, which touched the Bhutanese from all walks of life, is the following:
“Throughout my reign I will never rule you as a King. I will protect you as a parent, care for you as a brother and serve you as a son. I shall give you everything and keep nothing; I shall live such a life as a good human being that you may find it worthy to serve as an example for your children; I have no personal goals other than to fulfill your hopes and aspirations. I shall always serve you, day and night, in the spirit of kindness, justice and equality.”
Since accession to the Golden Throne in 2006, His Majesty has inspired the nation and the world with His selfless service and love for the people. The special bonding between the monarch and the people is ever strong. It is our good fortune to have our People’s King to lead, inspire, and serve us. The unprecedented peace, harmony and progress achieved in the last decade can be attributed to His Majesty’s unwavering resolution to serve His people.
During the past decade, His Majesty steered the nation with steadfast attention and brilliance as the democratisation process began to unfold unprecedented experiences in the country with changes in the polity, economy and Bhutanese behaviour. With a smooth transition to democratic constitutional monarchy form of government and the three successful general elections, democracy is deepening and the future looks more promising.
On this auspicious Coronation Day, the nation offers prayers for His Majesty’s good health and long life. May Drukyul continue to enjoy peace and tranquility, security and sovereignty, happiness and prosperity forever.