Our King's Vision of GMC

 

Photo: gmc.bt

I am always amazed by the concept of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) -the brainchild of our beloved king. 

What's so intriguing to me is the whole idea of this city but what it symbolizes for Bhutan and for each one of us-the future rooted in spirituality, sustainability and purposeful living. 

It's even more awe-inspiring to witness the architectural brilliance that's slowly beginning to shape this dream project. Among the many incredible designs, this aerial view or bird eye view of one side of the proposed city caught my heart so deeply. 

I can't just move on without a long stair to these images. The Education Centre and the Airport stand out with their stunning and timeless beauty, each space reflecting not just the modern elegance but the blend of traditional design, which I have long dreamt about. In many occasions, I have shared this with my Science Students -many of whom have gone to become architects and engineers, scattered across different parts of the country.

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Unfolding a new era of learning - Part II

I had the opportunity to attend the Zoom session "Walk the Talk -02", with four insightful panelists, some seasoned researchers, others university lecturers. The session ran for nearly two hours, but every minute was worth it. 

I would like to believe that they are not only supporting aspiring PhD and Master's Research Candidates but also trying to build a vibrant research community where ideas, guidance and collaboration can thrive.  

Mr. Gopilal Acharya presented on "Academic Writing" and he covered pretty well the fundamentals of academic writing. 

Dr. Deki presented on "AI and Academic Writing". She emphasized that AI is a double-edged sword. While acknowledging its growing influence, she firmly warned us against using AI in any form of academic writing. Reliance on AI not only fosters dependency and laziness, but also diminishes creative thinking and originality. 

AT THE BEST, DON'T USE AI! 

Dr. Karma Tenzin, shared some "General Insights", in fact the whole process, drawn from his own experience.  I found some of his words genuinely encouraging. However, one particular piece of advice of finding a reliable "Study Partner/Study Buddy" was something EYE OPENING! 

Dr. Phuntsho Wangdi, gave us the consultation process and timely communication with supervisors and other research groups. 

My sincere thanks to the EduPlus Bhutan Journal team for organizing this session at a critical time. To make us feel that research journey is not so difficult, it all needs "passion, dedication, commitment, collaboration, critical thinking, attention to detail, etc, etc,,,"

Thank you for inspiring us!

Part I

Part -II

Disclaimer: These screenshots are taken from the presentation and are shared solely for my personal reference and record-keeping purposes.

A Mother is the first Teacher

Photo: HM's Official FB page

From the very first moment our beloved King announced the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), I felt an overwhelming sense of hope and pride. 

It wasn't just another developmental project, it was a Royal dream for Bhutan's future. For me, it signified something much greater: the arrival of our "First World" experience, born from Bhutanese values and built on the foundations of mindfulness, sustainability and national unity.

I genuinely believe GMC will serve as a powerful gateway. A place where the world can experience Bhutan's unique philosophy of balancing development with nature. A space where we, as Bhutanese citizens, can learn, unlearn and rediscover how to live meaningfully and harmoniously.

Ever since the Royal announcement, I've been closely following the rapid developments taking place in and around Gelephu. There's a new energy in the air, a sense of purpose shared by every Bhutanese heart. It feels like the entire nation is coming together to honour this Royal assignment, contributing in every way possible to make this dream a reality.

As a citizen, I wanted to do my part — no matter how small. I chose to invest in ORO Bank shares, not only because of the promising annual return of 10%, but more importantly because I see it as a way to actively participate in nation building. I also contributed to the Gelephu Mindfulness City Nation Building Bond (GNBB). This wasn't an investment for profit, but a personal commitment to a future I want to be a part of.

These small contributions may seem modest, but to me, they carry deep meaning. One day, I'll proudly tell my children and grandchildren that I have a stake in this city, not just financially, but spiritually. A small part of me will forever live in Gelephu.

One of the most moving moments recently was the groundbreaking ceremony for the Gelephu International Airport (GIA). I followed every post, every image, every news. The designs by the world-renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) are breathtaking — a symbol of what's possible when bold vision meets cultural integrity. 

Yet, amid all the excitement and innovation, one photo stood out: a kupar of Her Majesty lovingly teaching Our Beloved Gyalseys how to hold a sickle and cut through bushes. That moment was simple, yet profoundly symbolic. It stirred something deep in me, a beautiful memory of my own childhood.

That image reminded me of something my own mother would have done. A gesture of guidance, patience and love. At that moment, I couldn't help but reflect - A mother truly is the first teacher of a child!

Curious, I turned to Google to validate this deep feeling. I was heartened to find that this belief is widely accepted around the world. As one source put it, "Yes, mothers are widely considered to be the first teachers of their children. From birth, they play a crucial role in shaping a child's development by providing care, guidance, and a foundation for learning."

It's a truth that rings across cultures, time and generations. And it's a truth I saw reflected in the royal image — a mother passing on not just knowledge, but values.

For me GMC is not just a city, it is a legacy in the making. And I am deeply grateful to play even the smallest part in it.

One day, when my children or grandchildren visit Gelephu and walk its roads, I will be able to say: "This city carries a part of me and a part of you, too."

The Reasons WHY I Admire these SIX Individuals

 If I may ever asked to pick top people, really off the top of my head, it will be these great individuals who are not just living/ed a life for them but to the world to look up to them. 

1. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (King of Bhutan)

Photo: Official FB Page of HM

Ever since His Majesty ascended the throne as the King of Bhutan, not a single day has passed without inspiring the nation to strive for more. He is truly the People's King — Oxford-educated, handsome, humble and visionary. His leadership extends beyond Bhutan; he stands as a guiding light for the world. 

2. His Holiness the 14TH Dalai Lama

Photo: The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is a global symbol of Tibetan culture. He is the voice of Compassion, Knowledge, Empathy, Love and Kindness.

I see His Holiness as not a religious figure but as a person, so sweet, grounded, who is living as a supreme leader of millions around the world. We must learn the art of living a simple yet meaningful life.

The extraordinary life of His Holiness is so beautiful to watch and feel. To me, it always brings peace of mind and a humble life. I feel His Holiness is one of the most extraordinary people who have ever lived and walked on this planet. 

With His openness, love and compassion for all beings. I would like to think that the world has never seen someone like Him who embodies selflessness, love, compassion and wisdom.

As His Holiness turns 90, I wish His Holiness his long life. May he live many more years without any illnesses. Even more so, His Holiness continues the institution of the Dalai Lama. I would like to believe that He belongs to the world and this universe.

3. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong (Singapore)

Photo: tatlerasia page

Lawrence Wong is serving as the current PM of Singapore (204--). The country I admire for many great things, such as democratic transition, low corruption index, education, infrastructure and urban development.

I have seen him not long ago, but as soon as I saw him as the PM of Singapore, I felt so close to PM Wong for the fact that he appears calm with the great personality of a genuine human being, an extraordinary leader. The Harvard Kennedy School graduate is a multi-talented individual with the right skillset because, in the fast-changing world, we need leaders to have such genuineness and talents.  

I wish Mr. Wong could lead Singapore to greatness after a great succession of great leaders like LKY and his successors. I admire these individuals for the foundation they set, not just for Singaporeans, but for other nations to look up to for many things.

4. Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukraine) 

Photo: The Australian

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has served as the President of Ukraine since 2019. A law graduate who once made the world laugh through comedy and entertainment, he now leads his nation through one of its darkest hours of devastating war.

I deeply admire President Zelenskyy for his unwavering dedication, courage, and stamina. He is not just a leader, but a genius, a fighter, a symbol of hope, and a true role model. Many in his position might have fled, but he stayed — risking his own life to stand with his people. That alone speaks volumes about the kind of man he is.

What impresses me most is his stamina — his relentless pursuit of support from the international community to defend his country and his people. Some may call it desperation; I call it resilience and leadership. He leaves no stone unturned in his mission to protect Ukraine. 

This man is a true genius!

Since the first day of the war, I have followed the conflict between Russia and Ukraine closely. The loss of innocent lives, the destruction of cities and homes built with lifetime savings— is heartbreaking. Watching people lose everything in the blink of an eye is painful.

For a long time, I’ve felt that President Zelenskyy deserves the Nobel Peace Prize — not just for his fight, but for what he symbolizes: bravery, unity and hope in the face of overwhelming adversity

5. Frank lloyd Wright

Photo: ArchEyes

Frank Lloyd Wright, the iconic American architect, designer, writer and educator (google) — has always been someone I deeply admire.

Let me share why.

During my high school days, while studying Computer Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Computer Applications), I'd one big dream: to become an urban planner. Sadly, that dream never materialized. Life took a different turn and I found myself stepping into the world of education becoming an IT and Chemistry teacher instead.

Though I'm no longer in the system, I take great pride in what I accomplished during my time as a schoolteacher. I had the privilege of serving two beautiful schools (Zhemgang CS and Damphu CS), where I wore many hats and engaged with students from diverse backgrounds.

Indeed, teaching Chemistry to the finest brains (science students) of the school was one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. I was entrusted with preparing future architects and engineers, doctors and teachers for the national exams and I did so with passion and discipline. 

As always I made it a point to be ultra-punctual, always entering and leaving the classroom on time, with very few exceptions. I believed that if I wanted my students to be responsible citizens, I had to role model those values myself.

What stood closest to my heart, however, was a dream I couldn't fulfill becoming an urban planner or architect. But I found joy in sharing that dream with my students. 

I often spoke to them about my passion for design and urban development. I talked about the marvels of the modern world like Abu Dhabi’s skyline, Marina Bay Sands, the Eiffel Tower and I would ask: Why can't Bhutan have its own blend of traditional and modern architecture against their name? 

I encouraged them to think bigger, to become the designers, architects and engineers who would reimagine Bhutan's future infrastructure.

And that's where Frank Lloyd Wright comes in.

I admire Wright not just for his genius, but for how he transformed the very idea of what architecture could be. His work is not merely about buildings it's about harmony between nature, design and human life. And more importantly, his concept of "Organic". I've watched several documentaries on his creations and the philosophy behind them. "Fallingwater" is one that truly captivated me, a breathtaking blend of form and environment. I hope to visit it in person someday.

I have a deep love for architecture and built environments. Like Wright, I dream of a Bhutan where innovation meets tradition, where the next generation, perhaps some of my own former students, rise to build structures that inspire the world.

That is my hope. And that is why I admire Frank Lloyd Wright.

6. Steve Jobs 

Photo: Vox web

Steve Jobs was the man behind the iPhone and Mac. Perhaps, he was one of the greatest minds the world has ever known. 

A true technology genius, he didn't just invent products; he created the future. His work made technology not only powerful, but also beautifully simple, so elegant in design and experience that people instantly fall in love in one touch.

Today, Apple has become more than just a brand. It's a symbol of innovation, luxury and trust.

Steve Jobs gave the world a device that feels almost magical, something that connects us, entertains us, supports our work and keeps us organized, all with a touch. 

I still remember the moment I first used an iPhone, a black iPhone 7 back in early 2019. That was it. I was hooked. Since then, I've become a loyal Apple user for two simple reasons: timeless design and incredibly smooth performance.

By some grace of luck, I've been using a MacBook Air (2015) since 2019, and in 2023, I upgraded to an iPhone 14 Pro. These devices are more than tools, they are experiences. I simply love them.

Wherever you are, I hope you can feel the appreciation from millions like me. Your creation have changed the world of technology.

As iPhone has become a status symbol, it even did not spare my mom falling for this phone, someday she wants to own one. 

Thank you, Steve Jobs.