HM's BIRTHDAY

THRUNGKAR DUECHEN LA TASHI DELE

“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.” -Coronation Address to the Nation, 6 November 2008.

His Majesty the Fifth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck was born on 21 February 1980 corresponding to the Iron Monkey year of the Bhutanese Lunar calendar to His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck and Her Majesty the Queen, AshiTsheringYangdon Wangchuck.

After formal schooling in Bhutan alongside other Bhutanese children and an early training in traditional arts such as mask dance and DriglamNamzha, the official code of conduct and ethics, His Majesty was transferred to the Phillips Academy (Andover) in the U.S. This was followed by higher education at the Cushing Academy and the Wheaton College in Massachusetts and, eventually, the Magdalen College at Oxford University.
In a simple ceremony at the Samtenling Royal Cottage on 25 June 2002, His Majesty the King was awarded the Red Scarf by his father, the fourth Druk Gyalpo, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

The then crown prince was also Chief Patron of the Scouts Association of Bhutan and, at an early age, played a public role in inspiring the kingdom’s youth.

In his interactions with the scouts and students he always reiterated the need to preserve traditional values, emphasizing commitment and loyalty to Bhutan’s spiritual leaders, the royal government, teachers and parents. In all his discussions with them, he spoke unceasingly of the important role the youth will have to play in determining the future of the country.

Although juvenile crime is not widespread in Bhutan, the crown prince became increasingly aware of some of the unfortunate realities affecting youth. Among them, the growing numbers of high school dropouts, the migration of youth from farms and villages in pursuit of the perceived attractions of urban life, and the resulting involvement of youth in emerging social problems of today. This concern led him to open the first juvenile rehabilitation center in Tsimalakha in June 1999, the first of such institutions addressing youth problems.

His first official tour abroad was at the invitation of the government of India. During the two week visit in 2001 he called on the then President of India, Shri K.R. Narayanan and Shrimati Sonia Gandhi, President of Congress (I), for a wide range of discussions affecting Indo-Bhutan relations.

Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in 2002, the crown prince spoke of the need to eradicate poverty, disease and hunger. Beginning 2003, the crown prince also became active in strengthening the growth of Indo-Bhutan relations, following a memorandum of understanding signed between the two governments to “enrich and expand” bilateral relations; a cause that remains close to his heart as king.

Other organizations and causes that have received the crown prince’s patronage include the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, the Royal University of Bhutan, the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature, the European Convention of Bhutan Societies and the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies.

On the 18th day of the ninth month of the Bhutanese calendar, corresponding to October 31, 2004, the road to TrongsaDzong, arguably the kingdom’s most dramatic and venerable fortress was lined with men, women, children, dignitaries and invited foreign guests. Incense wafted on the breeze, butter lamps flickered in the air, and flags waved in eager hands. The historic occasion was the investiture ceremony of the then crown prince to the office of ChhoetsePenlop, one of the most significant events in the life of a future Bhutanese king. For, loaded with symbolism and meaning dating back to the origins of the Bhutanese nation, the event marks the formal recognition of the prince’s eventual ascension to the throne.

The Fifth Druk Gyalpo, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, was ushered to the Dragon throne nearly as unexpectedly as his illustrious father 35 years ago.

Following an emotion-charged special session of the Cabinet in which His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo announced his sudden decision to step down from the throne, Bhutan’s fifth monarch was formally announced. His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck told the Cabinet that he was confident the Fifth Druk Gyalpo was fully capable of carrying out his responsibilities as king. Judging by his performance as Crown Prince, his philosophical outlook and his principles, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo said he had no doubt the new king would serve his nation with selfless dedication.
Although a uniquely Bhutanese event, the transition was also watched with interest, amazement and admiration by international diplomats and other observers.

Joining the nation on this auspicious day, we thank our fifth Druk Gyalpo for his compassion, love and care for his people; for the farsighted vision, enlightened leadership, selfless sacrifices and dedicated service for the wellbeing of our country with the inspiring and compassionate gift of Gross National Happiness; for our free and valuable education and health care system; for promoting and preserving our unique values and culture.We would like to extend felicitations to our beloved King, who always placed the needs and interests of the people before your own, may you live a long and healthy life. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the Fifth King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.