Tshering Palden
The second Royal Child of Their Majesties The King and Queen, a prince, was born yesterday, on March 19, coinciding with the 25th day of the first month of the Male Iron Rat year.
His Royal Highness was delivered safely at the Lingkana Palace in Thimphu.
A news release from the Royal Office for Media stated that Her Majesty and the royal baby were in good health, and His Royal Highness The Gyalsey was delighted to meet his younger brother.
“Their Majesties express their gratitude to the medical team, the Zhung Dratshang and to everyone for their well-wishes and prayers,” the news release stated.
“While this remains a very happy occasion for the Royal family and the nation and people of Bhutan, Their Majesties wish to remind all Bhutanese to be mindful, responsible and supportive to each other in the wake of the Covid-19 virus.”
The release also stated that Their Majesties have everyone whose lives have been affected by this global pandemic in their thoughts and prayers.
Leaders and citizens alike poured their good wishes for the good health of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen and the Royal Prince and expressed their happiness.
Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering said that the successful birth of the second Royal Prince was the result of the collective prayers and aspirations of the Bhutanese people and reassuring indication of the continuity of the destined Wangchuck Dynasty.
“Like the arrival of a new member bringing joy to every family, the birth of the second Royal Child enlivens hopes and bliss of every Bhutanese, across the world,” he said. “On behalf of the people of Bhutan, I offer our humble prayers and gratitude.”
Opposition Leader Pema Gyamtsho (PhD) said, “I cannot think of a better time for this wonderful news on the arrival of our second Gyalsey not just for us Bhutanese, but also for the global community at large. The birth of the Royal Child gives us all reason to believe and look forward to a better and brighter future ahead.”
Parliament Speaker Wangchuk Namgyel said, “Even as we realise just how important the Yab-Sey archetypal relationship is to our collective folk memories, we are blessed with yet another precious jewel.”
“I join the nation to offer my humble Tashi Delek to our beloved His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen. We cannot buy happiness. Happiness is born to us!”
“The news of the birth of the Royal Child brings warmth, happiness and light into the lives of the Bhutanese.”
Most of the people Kuensel spoke to said that it was news of hope and lifted their spirits during this tense period following the Covid-19 pandemic.
A 77-year-old from Paro, Bidha upon hearing the news of the Royal Child’s birth said a prayer: “With the birth of the Prince, may the country be blessed with peace, harmony, and prosperity.” She said that she was extremely happy for His Royal Highness the Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel because the prince’s wish of having a sibling to play had been fulfilled.
At an annual Lochay in Haa, people joyfully shared the news and happiness, showering blessings to the newborn Prince’s good health and long life.
“I pray that with the birth of the Prince, the pandemic subsides. We are grateful that the Prince was born healthy.”
Dorji Gyeltshen, who runs a restaurant in Phuentsholing, said, “In this troubled time, when the country could lockdown, when families are tense, business is down because of the coronavirus, the birth of the Royal Child is such comforting news. It brings peace and happiness.”
Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on behalf of his country and the people, tweeted congratulating Their Majesties and the people of Bhutan.
“Hearty congratulations to His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, His Royal Highness The Gyalsey and the Royal Family on being blessed with the birth of the Second Royal Child. India joins the people of Bhutan in rejoicing on this happy occasion.”
Meanwhile, 14 babies were born in Mongar, Gelephu and JDWNRH hospitals yesterday.
“I am wordless. The day is special and my daughter will cherish her birthday,” a new mother, Tshering Wangmo said.
Additional reporting Rajesh Rai, Phub Dem, and Choki Wangmo