Neten Dorji

Trashigang—With national flags festooning the streets, more than 1,000 people gathered at the football ground of Trashigang Middle Secondary School yesterday to celebrate the 117th National Day.

Residents came as early as 7 am to join the celebrations.

Nima Chenzom, who travelled from Merak Village, offered butter lamps and prayers for the peace and prosperity of the nation before heading to the celebration venue.

“I feel truly blessed to celebrate the 117th National Day and offer my prayers for the well-being of Their Majesties and our country. I did not want to miss His Majesty the King’s speech,” she said, adding that she attended every National Day celebration in Trashigang.

The celebrations began with the sharing of the live audio feed of His Majesty the King’s address to the nation.

Eighty-year-old Luku expressed relief and gratitude for the live broadcast of His Majesty’s speech. “His Majesty’s address provides us with guidance and hope. We are blessed to have such selfless leadership,” she said.

“I feel very blessed to celebrate the 117th National Day,” said Trashigang resident, Tenzin. “After listening to His Majesty the King’s speech, I am inspired to serve the nation with utmost sincerity and dedication.”

Pema Dorji, a 60-year-old from Udzorong, said that the National Day celebration highlights the importance of unity and the collective responsibility shared by all Bhutanese citizens.

“I always feel reassured knowing that His Majesty is steering the country toward peace and prosperity.”

The event also included cultural events, award ceremonies, and mask dances. Locally handmade baskets and containers made from waste materials were displayed for guests and visitors to raise awareness on waste management and promote waste reduction.

The Guru Tshengye Thongdrel was also unfurled.

As  a build up programme, Trashigang Dzongkhag administration inaugurated the 1.36km hiking trail from Trashigang town to Druk Doethjung resort.

In neighbouring Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag, more than 1000 people gathered at the dzongkhag tendrelthang to celebrate the National Day.

Dzongkhag officials, regional and corporate heads, and local leaders received the portrait of the first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, in a chipdrel ceremony, offered butter lamps, and recited zhabten for His Majesty the King.