His Majesty’s Address to the Nation on National Day 2024

His Majesty Addressing the Nation on 117th National Day
at Changlimithang, Thimphu

National Day  is a sacred occasion for Bhutanese – a time to pay tribute to our visionary Monarchs and forefathers for their sacrifices in building this precious nation, and to collectively reaffirm our unwavering commitment to strengthening the unity, peace, security, and sovereignty of our country.

This past year, our country was blessed with peace and stability, free from the turmoil seen in many parts of the world. The elections for both houses of Parliament were conducted smoothly, and the new government has successfully launched the 13th Five-Year-Plan. I extend my Tashi Delek to the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and all Members of Parliament as they take on these important responsibilities.

Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting Australia, where we were warmly welcomed by thousands of Bhutanese in Sydney, Canberra, and Perth. It was a bittersweet experience, as on one hand, it was heartening to see how our people, after many years away from home, are thriving, working hard to support themselves and their families, and upholding our traditions and values with pride. On the other hand, their deeply emotional welcome showed how much they miss their home and loved ones, and the difficulty of being apart. This is why I am determined to create the conditions that will allow Bhutanese all over the world to return home and enjoy the same opportunities they have sought abroad.

I visited India several times this year. During these visits, I always had fruitful interactions with the Indian leadership. I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the continued support and friendship extended to Bhutan, including full support for the GMC. 

I am immensely proud of our Desuups and Gyalsups. The Desuung fraternity, which comprises of our youth, has grown to over 50,000 members.

Trained in various skilling programmes, they are exemplary and smart volunteers, who have been tirelessly serving our people across all dzongkhags and gewogs, making a significant impact on communities throughout the country. The launch of Gyalsung—National Service—marks a significant milestone in our nation’s history. Thousands of Bhutanese youth have answered the call of duty with great enthusiasm, embracing their training with dedication and commitment. The pride with which Gyalsups and their families celebrated their graduation has already established a wonderful tradition. National Service is a rite of passage, a social equalizer, and a common experience that builds character, grit, discipline, and coordination. With this sense of purpose, unity, and intelligence, we can achieve all our aspirations. Gyalsung will lay a strong foundation for our national unity, peace, and security, helping build a just and harmonious society. I thank the armed forces for their invaluable support in making this vision a reality. I am extremely proud of National Service and the legacy it is creating.

Before starting any important national endeavour, I always ask a few key questions: Is this the right time? Is there opportunity? Have we planned it well? And most importantly, can our people shoulder this responsibility? 

Over the years, our duties, ambitions, and responsibilities have grown larger and more complex. This is a testament to how much stronger we have become, especially with our capable and determined youth. Every accomplishment has been possible because of the unwavering support of our people, including the youth, who embody intelligence, grit, and fearless resolve. 

Our greatest strength lies in the loyalty and unity of our people, which gives me the confidence to pursue ambitious endeavours like the GMC.

This is why, on last year’s National Day, I announced the establishment of GMC—a bold vision that can only be realised with the people’s commitment. When the announcement was made, the overwhelming response from the people at Changlimithang deeply impressed the international guests present, a sentiment that continues to resonate to this day.

The establishment of a Special Administrative Region (SAR) under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems” is a bold and groundbreaking initiative, admired globally. While the concept is sound and carefully thought out, the risk lies in inadequate execution, which could undermine its success. To prevent this, I have personally taken the lead and brought together a team of the most talented and capable individuals to ensure it is implemented effectively.

In all our endeavours, our primary goal is to ensure that the blessings and legacy of Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal, which have shaped our precious and blessed nation, endure for thousands of years. The blessing lies in our people continuing to enjoy prosperous, happy, and secure lives for generations to come. Similarly, the goal of the GMC is aligned with this vision: to pave the way for a brighter future, particularly for our youth.

I feel a deep sense of urgency when I see that children born when I became King 18 years ago are already young adults undergoing Gyalsung training. Those who were 10 in 2006 are now 28, with families and responsibilities. It is distressing to encounter youth still struggling to make ends meet on salaries of just Nu 8,000, a situation that hasn’t changed for many. I cannot, in good conscience, ask our youth—Desuups, Gyalsups, and students—to carry on without a clear promise of a brighter future. We must urgently create meaningful job opportunities, with clear learning pathways and attractive career prospects, to help our youth lead prosperous lives. They must be ready to embrace the opportunities offered by the rapid advancements in AI, quantum technology, robotics, and supercomputing.

We are blessed that the launch of the GMC fortuitously coincides with the dawn of the Asian century. The world is watching as South Asia grows, representing vast economic prospects for the two billion people who are young and ambitious. The GMC is strategically positioned as a business and financial centre, economic and technology hub, aviation and transit gateway for the region, just as Singapore is for Southeast Asia and Dubai for the Middle East. 

Drawing on Bhutan’s unique values as a Buddhist nation, I have asked our Buddhist community—the dratshang, lams, and trulkus—to help establish the spiritual identity of the GMC through monasteries, institutions, and their communities. I am deeply appreciative of their efforts, and this year, they are set to begin more than 21 projects, supported by the funding and dedication of their patrons and devotees. This is a promising step towards creating a strong spiritual foundation for the GMC.

For potential investors, the question will inevitably be: What does the GMC have to offer? 

The GMC will provide world-class infrastructure, including residential homes, offices, recreational facilities, educational institutions, healthcare services, and hospitality services—basic features found in many advanced urban centres. But the true focus will be on the “software”—the essential, often more difficult, but critical components that will set us apart. This means a robust governance framework, with business-friendly laws, enabling regulations, and supportive institutions. We will also ensure access to top-tier professional and financial services, creating an environment that attracts global business.

Our goal is to establish a business hub that not only competes with but surpasses existing centres like Singapore, London, Dubai, New York, and Tokyo. To achieve this, I am committed to working tirelessly and engaging the best Bhutanese and global talent to help build the GMC’s success. Guided by core Bhutanese values like loyalty and integrity, we will create a city that is free of corruption, drugs, and crime—one that offers both the infrastructure and the governance needed for long-term prosperity.

I have met many people who are increasingly concerned about the state of the world and are seeking new ideas, better options, and inspiring examples. The world is looking for new ideas, better options, good examples, a sense of direction. Everyone is looking for hope. Often, some of the largest problems can be solved with a single, good idea- and sometimes that idea can come from a small country. Bhutan, as a small nation, has a unique opportunity to shine by achieving something extraordinary. The success of the GMC will not only elevate our global standing but also enable us to fully realise the potential of Gross National Happiness (GNH) in the 21st century for the benefit of our nation and its people. This is why we must succeed: to take Bhutan’s philosophy of GNH—our inherited legacy—into the future and demonstrate that small countries can lead the way.

The Diamond Strategy

An important thing for the people to understand is that we are pursuing “One Country, Two Systems” by establishing the GMC as a Special Administrative Region. However, we do not intend to maintain the “two systems” forever. Ultimately, they must converge into “One Country, One System.” The innovations emerging from the GMC must be mirrored across the rest of Bhutan for the nation to succeed as a whole. But this convergence will only succeed if we implement parallel reforms throughout the country—strengthening democracy, aligning the bureaucracy with future needs, improving laws, and reforming the education system to empower our people.

Democracy with 

Meritocracy

I want to share a story from my time as the Trongsa Penlop, leading up to the introduction of democracy in Bhutan. His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo once said it was too risky for the fate of our nation to rest solely on the King, as there is no guarantee future Kings will be competent or benevolent. For the country’s future security, democracy and enduring institutions were essential. 

His Majesty set high standards for our nation, refusing to simply copy foreign political systems. Our Constitution was designed with safeguards, including a two-step electoral process to avoid the pitfalls of coalition politics. We also adopted five-year terms for elected leaders to ensure continuity in development. Public campaign financing was introduced to level the playing field and reduce the influence of money, while a Bachelor’s degree requirement for parliament candidates was set to uphold meritocratic principles. 

I recall foreign visitors criticising the education requirement, to which I responded that in their countries, even school bus drivers undergo rigorous checks. Thus, it is only fitting that elected leaders, who govern the country, meet high standards. 

The introduction of the Constitution and electoral process in 2008 was just the beginning, not the realisation of His Majesty’s vision. For instance, in the first election, Gasa dzongkhag struggled to find enough college graduates to run for Parliament, and in 2013, a political party was disqualified for the same reason. If we had waited for perfect conditions, we would not have been able to introduce democracy in 2008.

It is crucial that we continue to strengthen our democratic system to ensure our institutions can uphold our security and sovereignty. This will enable us to address the challenges and opportunities arising from the GMC and facilitate smooth convergence. Our ultimate goal is a democracy rooted in meritocracy, where the most capable and experienced individuals lead the nation.

Enlightened Entrepreneurial Bureaucracy

The bureaucracy plays a crucial role in implementing laws, policies, and delivering public services, and I am grateful for the contributions of our civil servants. However, to align with our future goals, we must ensure the bureaucracy evolves to meet the changing demands of the nation.

While the private sector is often seen as more agile and efficient, bureaucracies are sometimes constrained by complex legal and procedural norms. With over 30,000 civil servants, reform may seem challenging. But when we look at multinational corporations, such as Unilever with 128,000 employees or the Tata Group with over a million, we see that large organisations can be managed effectively. This shows that there’s no reason we cannot improve our bureaucracy as well.

The bureaucracy must be agile enough to keep up with the rapid changes and innovations arising from the GMC. Our goal is to create an Enlightened Entrepreneurial Bureaucracy within the next 10 years to ensure successful convergence. If we fail to do this, comparisons will inevitably be made between the success of GMC and the lack of progress elsewhere in Bhutan—and if there is no convergence, I will have failed.

I am giving 10 years for this transformation to take place.

Laws

Laws are the foundation of order, security, prosperity, and social harmony. However, many countries face challenges due to an overabundance of laws, poor public understanding, and weak enforcement. This burdens the people and stifles innovation and enterprise.

In Bhutan, we must ensure that laws, particularly those affecting the economy, are enacted swiftly and amended when necessary to create an agile, responsive legal system that fosters progress rather than impedes it. Such a system will be essential to ensure the smooth convergence of the GMC with the rest of Bhutan. Our goal is to establish one of the best legal systems in the world within the next 10 years.

Laws should serve the nation, its people, and the economy.

Empower people 

Our aspirations to build a strong country can only be realised with a capable citizenry. To support a dynamic economy, we must either boost our fertility rates, improve productivity, or, ideally, achieve both. For a small country of just 700,000 people, enhancing education and skills is crucial. If every Bhutanese improves their productivity tenfold, we could function like a country with seven million people. This productivity boost is essential to achieving higher incomes and improving living standards.

A well-educated and skilled population will be key to preparing our people for the opportunities arising from the GMC and ensuring successful convergence in the years ahead. Skilled and educated citizens will eventually take over responsibilities from foreign workers. Our future success depends on our education system and strategy to enhance human capacity.

What we lack in numbers, we must make up for with discipline, devotion, hard work, loyalty, and intelligence.

Finally, I want to share some updates on the timeline for GMC. Our immediate priority over the next five years is the construction of a large international airport in Gelephu, which will establish the GMC as a key aviation hub. This airport is essential for the success of the GMC as a business hub, and it is also a critical lifeline for Bhutan’s national security, especially for a landlocked country. We will begin construction next year and aim to complete the airport by the end of 2029.

This project is not just an infrastructure development—it is a People’s Project—a nation-building effort, a lifeline for Bhutan, for our economy, security, sovereignty, and ultimately, our future.

I am deeply encouraged by the support from Bhutanese living abroad, particularly from those in Australia, the US, and Canada who have pledged nearly USD 140 million to the airport project. This amount will only grow with contributions from Bhutanese in other countries.

Our people are ready to contribute to this effort in any way necessary—whether by carrying soil or laying bricks with their own hands. I will even bring my own children to the airport work site, so they too can work alongside fellow citizens and help complete this important undertaking for our times.

My love for Bhutan and the extraordinary character of our people inspires me every day. Together, we share a vision of a bright future, carrying our legacy into the 21st century. Because of this, I will never tire, never lose hope, and never hesitate. I am confident in our nation, its people, and our collective ability to succeed. 

As you watch the Gyalsups march today, you will see for yourselves why I am so confident. They reassure me that Bhutan’s future will be bright.

Article link

https://kuenselonline.com/his-majestys-address-to-the-nation-on-national-day-2024/

Disclaimer

This article has been copied from Kuenselonline solely for my personal reference. It is intended to help me guide as I continue to serve my nation with unwavering loyalty and dedication. Every line stands as a testament to the collective effort required to build a great nation.

A Journey of Friendship

Yeshi and I

Catching up with old friends is always a joy—it brings back so many memories and a wave of nostalgia for the good times that we will never quite get back. Throughout life, we meet different types of friends: some are there for lighthearted fun, others drift in and out, and a special few leave a lasting impact and stay close forever.

For me, one of those friends is Yeshi—my high school buddy and a bit of a ladies’ man.

We first met back in seventh grade at Damphu, just two young boys in the old classrooms of Damphu Campus. Fate brought us to the same school, both for -education. Together, we set off on that journey, driven by dreams of making something of ourselves. Now, by the grace of God, we are each building our own lives, making our own paths, and writing our own history, just as we had hoped.

Whether in person or over social media, catching up with friends is such a great way to relive those memories. Thanks to technology—and the brilliant minds behind it—staying connected has never been easier. 

Talking with old friends always brings a rush of nostalgia and hilarious memories from our mischievous days: bunking classes, teasing a few girls, racing to the canteen for a treat, and standing in line for a scolding from our teachers. These are all moments I hold close.

Yeshi and I made countless memories, and I am so proud that we still make time to catch up. One memory that stands out is when we used to sneak out of the hostel, hiding behind bushes and slipping through fences, to explore town for a treat. Some days we are lucky; other times, we have returned empty stomachs.

Beyond the classroom, I learned so much from my friend—fearlessness, the world beyond textbooks, and friendship. 

Though we live apart, we still make time to chat about our school days, life, studies, work, family, and our futures. 

I have yet to pick up his basketball acumen—which, no doubt, helped him get plenty of attention from the girls! 

Ryan Holiday: EGO is the ENEMY

Google

Let me start with a few questions: What is ego? What role does it play? Who is free of ego? Are there any benefits to having an ego?

Ryan Holiday's Ego is the Enemy is an inspirational read for anyone seeking to achieve greatness in life, a journey often hindered by the presence of ego. 

I had been excited to read this book for a while and finally decided to try the audiobook version. I knew it would be challenging to absorb everything, but I believed it is worth trying. Listening to a 5-hour and 34-minute audiobook takes more than just time—it requires patience, dedication, determination, and focus. One moment you are immersed in the book, and the next, you are up in the air. 

It took me two days to complete the book. While I may not have retained every single detail, I grasped the key concepts it offers. 

It reminded me of my childhood, when I was both innocent and arrogant—a reflection of my massive ego. This book helped me understand the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and reducing the role of ego in one’s life. I have always believed that ego is vital for survival, but keeping its negative aspects in check is equally crucial.

As I listened to each chapter, one thought continued to linger—how ego can both elevate and destroy an individual. This made me think of football legends like Messi and Ronaldo, both extraordinary players in their own way.

Messi’s humble ego has made him to quietly ascend to one of the greatest footballers of all time. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has channeled his more outward ego and competitive nature into his own version of greatness. Both players have used ego in a constructive way, and this is the kind of ego one should cultivate—whether in sports or any other field.

On the other side, I feel a sense of loss when I think of Neymar. He, too, was a football genius, but after a few years of brilliance, he failed to maintain his momentum, even during his prime. I remember watching him alongside Messi at Barcelona, but his career was short-lived. 

In my view, Neymar lacked the discipline and constructive ego needed to reach his full potential. He could have outshone both Messi and Ronaldo, but his lack of a positive ego hindered him. A player with his talents should have left a lasting legacy, but instead, his career faded too soon.

This brings me to a personal story. One of my close friends from high school, a brilliant mind, ruined his life by lacking ego. When properly harnessed, ego can be a powerful tool for self-development. It can be a gift, but if it becomes a source of unchecked pride, it can destroy both life and success.

As a teacher, I always advise my students to embrace ego, but the right kind—the positive, competitive, and growth-oriented ego. Some of them took this advice and went on to become successful, while others misunderstood it. 

    ***         ***          ***

This book stands out because it offers a wealth of insights, featuring facts and stories about various figures from the past and present who either achieved fame or saw their careers and lives ruined, with or without ego.

The chapters are arranged beautifully, with every word and line resonating deeply and feeling relevant to everyone—whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated, influential or not. I especially loved how each chapter or topic ends with a remarkable and thought-provoking conclusion.

My favorite part was the idea of "always being a student," which highlights life as an ongoing journey of learning but also a constant challenge. The tragic story of guitarist Dave Mustaine's exit from the band Metallica was a real eye-opener for me.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas: Review

Google

I have come across some interesting reviews of the movie -some recent, others older. The feelings shared by these viewers are simply mind-blowing. 

The reviews highlight just how beautiful and touching this film is. I haven't watched the full movie yet, but I am already eager to watch it myself. Nonetheless, I will definitely have my own share of thoughts and feelings to share. 

I am truly thankful to my wife for recommending this movie. So far, I have only seen the trailer and read a few online reviews, but they have already sparked my curiosity, and urge, making me want to watch it sooner than I expected. 

 

Preeti Shah Review of the Moive

"The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas" is a hauntingly poignant masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of cinema to touch the deepest recesses of the human soul. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this film navigates the complexities of innocence, friendship, and the brutality of prejudice with unparalleled grace and sensitivity.

Directed with exquisite precision by Mark Herman, every frame of the film is a testament to the power of storytelling. As we follow the journey of young Bruno, portrayed with heart-wrenching vulnerability by Asa Butterfield, we are confronted with the stark realities of a world torn apart by hatred and intolerance.

The performances in "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas" are nothing short of extraordinary. From Vera Farmiga's portrayal of Bruno's mother, grappling with the moral dilemmas of her time, to Jack Scanlon's haunting portrayal of Shmuel, a young boy trapped behind the barbed wire of a concentration camp, each actor brings depth and nuance to their characters, eliciting both empathy and introspection from the audience.

But perhaps the greatest triumph of the film lies in its ability to capture the universal themes of humanity and compassion. Through the innocent friendship that blossoms between Bruno and Shmuel, the film reminds us of the inherent goodness that resides within us all, regardless of race, religion, or circumstance.

As the credits roll and the echoes of the film linger in the air, "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas" leaves an indelible mark on the heart, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of love to transcend even the darkest of times. It is a cinematic gem that will resonate with viewers long after the final scene fades to black.

 

Dream Beast revew of the moive

The Boy in Striped Pyjamas is a movie produced in the year 2008. This movie was historically based on war during the 19th century and it has won several awards. 

This movie is about an adventurous boy named Bruno, who is a child explorer, and his family. Ever since Bruno’s father got a promotion for his job, the family had to move from Berlin to a city called Out-With. 

From that moment onwards, Bruno’s life changed drastically as he realised that he would have no choice but to be separated from his friends in school, just like his sister, Gretel. Once they had arrived at their new home, the siblings did not look very pleased as it was absolutely different from their old house in Berlin. From Bruno’s room’s view, he could see a work camp where all the Jews were captured. 

One day, Bruno tiptoed towards the camp and he met a boy who introduced himself as Schmuel. Both of them started talking to each other and Bruno enjoys the conversation just as much as Schmuel does. This conversation became a regular/daily habit and friendship built upon them. 

One day, Schmuel’s father disappeared and Bruno promised to help him search for his dad. Bruno’s mother fought with Bruno’s father as she thinks that this house was not a great place for children like Bruno and Gretel, so they will leave and find somewhere safer to live. 

Bruno was extremely sad and decided to go find Schmuel one last time, where Bruno sneaks into the camp to find Schmuel’s missing dad. However, they did not find any clue. Suddenly, an officer commanded all the Jews to start marching to the showers. Then, Bruno and Schmuel were gassed to death inside. When Bruno’s family found him, it was too late.

This movie is one of the saddest movies I have ever seen. My favourite quote in this story is “Their lost voices must continue to be heard.” Bruno’s father mentioned that all Jews are bad and Bruno’s teacher, Herr Liszt, said sarcastically “I think Bruno if you ever find a nice Jew, you’d be the best explorer in the world.” 

However, this statement is definitely disagreeable. There was a scene where Bruno accidentally fell off a tree swing he made with ropes and a tire and a Jew named Pavel helped him. I found the moment the officers beating the Jews up and the part where Bruno died extremely upsetting. In conclusion/Overall, I would rate this movie 9/10. However, the book was slightly better, it tells the same story but the book is more detailed. 

I think that the movie’s ending could have been a little better. I will recommend both the book as well as the movie.

 

Akansha singh review of the movie

Even though I had this movie in my laptop for more than 5 years, yet I watched it today. Maybe we evolve on our own pace and develop taste and interest with time and not when someone suggests you something. I have been reading history lately a lot, and history made me curious to know more about the things  around the world. 

This led to watching documentaries and holocaust movies. This is one of the best holocaust movies I have watched so far. How brilliantly writer   unfolds the story slowly and innocently, giving minute details about how a 8 year boy feels about the changes around,friendship and  unfolding the theme .Also, how children are away from all the wars and negative stuffs which pleasure adults. 

How they find happiness in anything around irrespective of caste,religion,race,etc. Maybe this is us, adults and society who takes away their innocence and bound them with "the right thing/people" and "the wrong thing/people" leading to hatred. All they care for is making friends, eating food, exploring things and making their own happy place wherever you put them. 

So, yeah, there is so much to learn from children, history and cruelties in the past.

Plot- 4/5

Acting- 5/5 ( boy nailed it)

Cinematography-5/5

Direction-5/5

Pace-5/5

 

 

Disclaimer: These reviews are shared solely for my personal reference and to gain different perspectives on the movie. They are not intended for any other purpose. 

 

Building the Legacy --II

Salem House. Happiness Kingdom Travels

Early this morning, while browsing through my Facebook news feed, I came across an interesting post from "Happiness Kingdom Travels" about a subject that has long piqued my interest—The Galem House in Punakha. 

The post offers a beautiful summary of the house, covering everything one might want to know. 

"The Galem and Singye House in Punakha is a historic landmark tied to one of Bhutan's most cherished folk tales-the story of Salem and Singye, two lovers whose tragic romance is often compared to Romeo and Juliet. The house, located near the Punakha Dzongkha, is believed to be the home of Salem, and it stands as a symbol of enduring love and devotion. Visitors can explore the traditional Bhutanese architecture of the house, which reflects the cultural heritage of the region. This site serves as a reminder of Bhutan's rich storytelling tradition and its deep connection to themes of love and loyalty".

I can't agree more on the information. However, motivated by my deep passion to preserve this historic site before it is gone forever, I quickly left a comment on the page. I have heard numerous discussions happening with different stakeholders, but time is running out as the house is decaying faster than anticipated. 

In my comment, I shared my long-held wish. "For years, I have hoped this historic house could be transformed into something special, like a museum, while maintaining its originality intact. It's more than a piece of history—it's our own Romeo and Juliet story. There's so much we can share with the world, that we have our own existence and independence."

The page admin responded me with the following lines. It's just so beautiful and informative. 

Dear Sancha, 

Our sentiments exactly! and the government is going to restore it as per the recent meet-the-press session. "And it was said that the main focus is on renovating cracks in the walls, enhancing the roofing, establishing a footpath outside the house, and installing street lights. These initiatives are currently in the final stages of preparation.  

Galem’s house serves as the backdrop for a poignant love story involving Gasa Lami Singye and Changyuel Bum Galem, a tale widely renowned throughout the country and depicted in numerous Bhutanese films.

In addition to its rich history, the altar room located on the top floor of the house is also revered as the neykhang of the deity Goen Drakpa. Goendrap is believed to be residing in Punakha during the summer and Gasa during the winter. Goendrap, from history, was supposed to bestow his blessings to those who do religious deeds. Every year, on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Bhutanese calendar, Gasa Dzongkhag offers a welcoming ritual ceremony.

On the 24th day of the 12th Month of the Bhutanese Calender, a member from the Galem’s house has to go to the Goendrap Neykhang, which is located at the other side of the MoChhu for offerings.

Before the Zhung Dratshang took over the Goendrap Neykhang, the ancestors of Galem took care of the lhakhang, but there are no records as to since when.

On the 15th day of the Third Month of the Bhutanese calendar, zhabkyel (see-off offering) has to be offered to the Goendrap when leaving for his summer residence to Gasa from Punakha.

And thank you for your lovely comment!

I have visited the Galem House several times, and each visit stirs a deep emotions. On my second visit, I felt a profound sense of melancholy, as though I was connecting with the essence of true love—a feeling that seems to be fading in today's generation. 

I get a sense that this place has the real potential to inspire future generations to value love, kindness, and humanity. 

By creatively preserving the house and adding elements that blend storytelling and leisure, we can share with the world not just the Bhutanese side of Romeo and Juliet, but also our architectural heritage and the heart of Bhutanese culture.

I am quite sure that this place with a little more creative approach, we not just harness revenue but also we can offer visitors a meaningful experience, showcasing how we have lived in a stone-age-period. And more importantly, it can teach our children about the power of 'love', family, and community bonding -values that are so authentic, pristine, fragile, rare, original and genuine. This is the way we should live and share this planet, not just by the power of guns. 

While there are stories and films about Galem and Singye, that's not enough. We need to do more to preserve this house in a better way than just leaving it as an idea, or an unfinished plan. 

If there is one thing we must embrace and pass on, it's love and care. Though time is running out, there is still a ray of hope from our Golden Throne.

Thoughtful Leader

My King. BBS

I often wonder if there's anyone more handsome, thoughtful, wise, profound, visionary, exceptional, and capable than our King.

In a small nation like Bhutan, with a population of just seven hundred thousand, if everyone can adopt the same mindset as our King, we could easily achieve anything and become one of the world's leading nations, even in terms of GDP.

There is no doubt about championing Gross National Happiness (GNH) and become global ambassadors of this unique philosophy. 

There are countless things I admire about our King, but a few are too close to me personally.

I can't help but admire how perfectly our King wears our national dress. If anyone truly showcase the perfect fit of the gho, it would be Him. The curve and the neatness of the lagey, everything is ideally in place highlighting the true beauty of our national dress.

Another quality I deeply admire is His command of the National Language, Dzongkha. 

Whether He speaks in pure Dzongkha or mixes it with English (Dzonglish), we get to hear the beauty and depth of our national language.  

However, Dzongkha often appears to be undervalued across various spheres. There seems to be a shift towards prioritizing English, with many students finding Dzongkha less appealing and feeling self-conscious about using it in different contexts—whether at home, in school, in public, or during official meetings.

Starting from my own daughter who face lot of challenges and odd in communicating, it's clear that there's been a noticeable decline in the use of our national language, both in speaking and writing. Back when I was in primary school, learning Dzongkha was something we cherished deeply. There was so much emphasis placed on it, reflecting its national importance to preserve and promote our language without any hesitation. We took learning Dzongkha seriously, focusing on mastering writing skills, grammar, and memorizing stanzas.

Sadly, speaking Dzongkha is sometimes met with disdain, and those who use it might be unfairly perceived as less capable or less educated.

Building the Legacy

I have always felt a strong connection to my homeland, which has played a key role in shaping who I am today. 

I am excited to see the recent progress in our nation, especially in areas like architecture, education, and discipline—ideas I had discussed with students and friends long ago.

National service is, in my opinion, essential to building our country. Although I had envisioned it a bit differently, it has evolved in a more significant way than I imagined seven years ago.

Looking ahead to the next 100 years, it's inspiring to think about the stories we will tell future generations about Bhutan's progress. We will leave behind not just a secure and strong nation, but one that is advanced and forward-thinking.

The introduction of programs like Desuung training, and now Gyalsung for high school graduates (September 2024), is especially meaningful. These initiatives reflect where we started and where we hope to go as a nation. For a small country like ours, this level of progress is truly amazing.

What surprised me even more was that the 66th batch of Desuung training is now being offered to senior citizens (aged 55-75). I never expected this opportunity to arise, but it's a remarkable chance for those individuals.

This really shows how much thought and care our King puts into the well-being of our nation.

66th Desuung Batch. BBS

His Majesty with 1st Cohort of Gyalsung. BBS

Gyalsung Training Centre. BBS

His Majesty's words are reassuring, comforting and uplifting!

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=UalRPS&v=835203505422423&rdid=r4WXovgzehNmTQD6

I am Getting Little Crazy

Many people choose to go to university after gaining some work experience, while others go right after finishing college. I, however, started my higher education a bit later, but I am grateful I had the chance to study at a good university in Australia.

The journey from high school to college and then to university helped me grow and think more maturely. Moving from a rudimentary setting to a world-class campus, I feel very lucky to be surrounded by students who share similar dreams and goals.

University life, as many say, is fun, though it comes with a mix of everything. You might feel relaxed at first, but it usually comes with a lot of responsibilities and accountability.

As part of a unit assignment, I recently submitted a project to design a simple IT infrastructure. We were asked to create a business model, or company that required basic IT infrastructure with cybersecurity at its core. For me, naming the company was easy—I called it "Dodo AutoWork."

While some might not see the significance, the name "Dodo" holds a special meaning for me. It's the name I gave to a bird I heard singing on Gatton Street.

As an enthusiastic bird watcher and photographer, I had the opportunity to observe and photograph a similar bird in Bumthang Valley back in 2016 during one of my trips to the valley. It didn't take much effort to recognize this bird singing; I immediately knew it was an Australian Magpie (Although there are different types of magpies, their sounds are quite similar).

My first night was a bit strange, but it was also filled with memories as I listened to the Magpie's occasional warbling, which kept me company all night.

I have been waiting for the right moment to share my feelings about the name I gave to the Magpie on Gatton Street. So when I had the chance, I chose "Dodo" as the name for my future business venture.

I took a risk, hoping this name would become an important part of my career, inspired by the Magpie's ability to soar high in the sky.

Who knows, maybe I will be the next Bill Gates!

Fictional IT company with this bird's name-dodo!

How Can We Think Better

The Bhutanese Page

Inside Bhutan Page

I recently came across an interesting cover about Thimphu Thromde's plan to introduce parking fees from Changilimithang till the south end. This proposal has sparked a lot of personal opinions. If it is implemented effectively, it could easily generate significant national revenue that would support and sustain essential infrastructure development.

I have a few things to share based on my personal experiences and observations. It's crucial that we move towards a more fair and transparent approach to managing this sector, as our traditional methods seem to fall short of national expectations.

The current human-managed ticketing system, though providing employment for our youth, is not achieving its intended goals. More importantly, we need to consider the lessons we are passing down to these parking fee collectors.

For the present population and the number of vehicles in the country, there are enough parking spaces to be used by all at least in our towns. So to make it tension-free and systematic, why not start an automated system to look after this space. Parking time could range from as little as 15 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours of free parking or paid parking based on location.

In many areas, a simple but effective principle is in place: within the designated time, drivers are mindful of sharing the space with others. This 2-hour free parking window allows drivers to reach their destination, shop, or dine, and return within the allotted time, promoting equitable use of the space.

If someone needs to stay longer due to emergencies or events, they can make a payment through a machine to avoid paying fines. This system fosters mindfulness, responsibility, and a sense of community. To me, instilling such civic sense is paramount. I envision a parking system that is more regulated, systematic, fair, convenient, and efficient than the current human-managed system.

Whenever I consider driving around Thimphu or other towns with parking fees, I hesitate—not because I can't afford it, but because I have often felt overcharged. I have observed numerous instances where collectors have falsely claimed time and fees. In some cases, I have even seen collectors exempt certain drivers they know, such as friends, relatives, or those with high-end vehicles.

I believe the current parking fee collection system is flawed. We must ask ourselves, are we improving? Are we setting a good example for the younger generation? Can we still claim a lack of sufficient funds?

I often feel that our parking system is vulnerable to manipulation. The collected funds seem susceptible to multiple layers of manipulation before reaching government accounts. 

Let me share one example from Damphu Town, Tsirang, where a parking system was introduced. The town, with around 100 parking spaces, does not have a parking fee collection system for its small size. In 2022, the Dzongkhag committee implemented crazy measures to manage parking. 

A 30-minute parking limit was introduced, requiring parked vehicles to keep their parking lights on. I've seen police personnel patrolling the area to ensure compliance, even using whistles to alert drivers when their time runs out. While the idea was generally well-received, some shop owners felt it was unfair. Although I found the concept interesting, it doesn’t seem sustainable in the long run. Human-managed systems are prone to manipulation, leading to unfair practices and fatigue.

I am not sure how it is functioning now, but I feel that the committee should have a backup plan/plan B with clear vision and commitment. It could have easily become successful within a few months if it was done in a good manner. The plan would have gone right with continuing promoting it through in-person advocacy, social media, local TV channels, and direct communication with citizens, emphasizing its immense benefits. 

They should also consider making parking signs and placards. Once the trial or warning period ends, implementing fines could help enforce compliance. With consistent efforts, we might eventually see a more organized and mindful community.

I believe this was a good start, but with a more sustainable plan and ongoing effort, it could surely become a a national move. 

We wish to see improved systems across all areas of our development to avoid falling behind and regretting missed opportunities due to falsely caliming insufficeint time and resources. 

I would like to respectfully point out that Thimphu Thromde officials have a lot of home work ahead for the town, including the need for an effective waste management system. The longer we delay, the more we risk fostering complacency among residents. 

The Innocence

 

Mom, Yesha & Reden

Mom & Reden

I recently found these photos on my wife's phone that deeply touched me. They stirred up powerful emotions of longing and innocence, and I couldn't help but was overwhelmed by how much I missed them. 

The images brought tears to my eyes and an intense ache in my heart. It’s heartbreaking to see this captured in the photos, and I can only hope that no other parents or young children have to experience this kind of separation.

My heart aches for my two beautiful kids, who are so far away from us. I feel an immense sense of sorrow for what they are missing out on and for the distance that keeps us apart.

There's nothing more heartwarming than video chatting with our children, who are thousands of miles away, made possible by the incredible advancements in technology and the power of the Internet. It allows us to see and speak with them whenever we want, maintaining our bond despite being separated for over a year.

We deeply regret the time we have lost as parents. There's so much love and emotion we wish to share with our wonderful children, who are currently in the care of my brother, sister-in-law, and our elderly parents.

Each time we connect with them, we are filled with joy and a sense of closeness. Yet, it’s accompanied by the profound sorrow of being apart during a time when they need us most. Seeing them, while brings happiness, also fills us with immense sadness.

One day in the future, as they grow older and begin to find their place in the world, and start to move forward in their own lives, I am quite sure at some point, they will look back and realize how much they have missed us, and perhaps see the selfish part of us. 

When that moment comes, we can only say we are sorry, and make a statement that our choices were made with the best intentions—to ensure a secure future for all of us, and most importantly, to provide them with a comfortable future and education journey with ease and comfort.

Though our hearts ache deeply for them, and their innocence is obvious, each passing second without them makes us feel their absence even more. We long to hold them close in our arms, and share the joy of our family moments.

We eagerly anticipate the perfect moment to reunite with our children, hoping that we shall win the race over time and be with them,,, SOON! Until then, we find comfort in knowing they are safe and well cared for.