My 118th National Day Reflection

Source: Motivation Bhutan

As our National Day is fast approaching, it is time for all of us to pause and reflect on the importance of this day. In 1907, Bhutan reached a defining turning point when Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, our first Druk Gyalpo, unified the nation under a hereditary monarchy. On this day he was unanimously declared as the king of a tiny Himalayan country, barely known to any outside world. 

His intelligence, courage, and leadership ended internal conflicts and laid the foundation for a peaceful and united Bhutan. National Day is therefore not just a public holiday but a tribute to honor the extraordinary vision of the leader who shaped our national identity, as sovereign nation in the global map. It was on this day, history of Bhutan was made. 

Across the country, preparations for this year’s celebration might be in full swing, bringing citizens together with pride, gratitude, and hope. It is important that we encourage our children not only to participate but to understand the importance of this day, so they appreciate the sacrifices made by our beloved monarchs and carry forward the values that have strengthened our nation for generations.

Each year, I take a moment to reflect and pray for the country’s success. I have shared my small perspectives through different platforms, believing that even simple reflections contribute to a collective unity and remembrance. This year, my thoughts turn to the increasingly popular Druk-gi Nya-goe Dendhur, Bhutan’s strongest man competition, which has become a major highlight of each National Day.

The competition is more than entertainment. It represents strength, endurance, and resilience, the very qualities embodied by our first king who unified Bhutan 118 years ago. The challenges, such as carrying heavy sandbags, dragging logs, and lifting massive tires, showcase the physical and mental strength of the competitors. Over the years, viewership has grown across all age groups, especially among our senior citizens who find joy and connection watching the raw talent of the participants.

Having watched live broadcasts from various districts, I have seen the excitement and unity the event brings, even in difficult weather or challenging conditions. However, it also raises some concerns particularly on safety. Many spectators stand extremely close to the competition line, and some competitors participate without basic safety measures. I have seen participants barefoot, without shirts, and without any protective gear. Considering that many of these competitors come from rural areas and are often the main providers for their families, any injury could have serious consequences for their family members and loved ones.

For this reason, it may be time to make the competition more professional and safer. Bhutan can learn from established strength competitions around the world by introducing basic training, creating safety awareness, and proper preparation for participants at least a month before the event. Simple steps such as personal fitness training, lifting techniques, safety protocols, and basic diet management can significantly reduce risks and avoid unnecessary injuries.

Such measures are not only practical but essential. This competition is becoming a cherished legacy connected closely with National Day, symbolising the strength and resilience of our people and our beloved monarchs. Ensuring safety and professionalism will help preserve this legacy for future generations.

As we celebrate National Day, honouring the unity and determination that built our country, we must also commit to improving the traditions we proudly uphold. Learning from experience and acting responsibly ensures that progress never comes at the cost of safety. By doing so, we honour the spirit of our past while building a safer, stronger future for all Bhutanese and this way we set a minimum national standard worthy of the day we celebrate as our NATIONAL DAY!

Declaimer: This view is the author's own and does not indicate harm or personal attack to any individual or institutions.