National Day of Bhutan

The day is a public holiday in Bhutan, and all government offices and institutions are closed to commemorate the historic occasion. All Bhutanese take pride in celebrating the day. The day celebrates the establishment of the monarchy in Bhutan and honours the sacrifices made by past monarchs for the nation's sovereignty and prosperity. It is a day for Bhutanese to renew their pledge to serve the Tsa-Wa-Sum and remain loyal to the Wangchuck Dynasty. == History ==

Bhutan was first unified by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who reigned for 35 years in the 17th century. However, the death of Zhabdrung Rinpoche in 1651 followed instability in the country for 225 years. By late 19th century, as foretold by Guru Rinpoche’s prophecy, Ugyen Wangchuck, the Ponlop of Tongsa, rose to prominence and unified the nation. The Dratshang Lhentshog and Lhengye Zhungtshog endorsed the proposal. On 17 December 1907, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was unanimously crowned as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. Since then, the country has been united under one leadership. However, it was only on 17 December 1971, 64 years after the coronation of the first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, that national day was observed for the first time. == Celebration ==

Since the very first celebration in 1971, the day have been observed annually across the country. and the raising of the national flag at Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu. 2024 Celebrations His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck graced the 117th national day celebrations at the Changlimithang Stadium. The Fourth Druk Gyalpo, other royal family members, more than 20,000 people, including over 200 international guests also attended the event. The event commenced with the reception of the king in a traditional chipdrel ceremony, hoisting of Bhutan’s national flag and an address to the nation by the king. The day ended with a Tashi Labey. The national day was also celebrated at Chandigarh University. Bhutanese diaspora in the U.S. also joined the celebration. == See also ==