The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) extends its warmest greetings to the Kingdom of Bhutan in celebration of its 117th National Day this December 17, 2024. May this day reflect Bhutan’s national pride and bring a prosperous future for the country!

History

Bhutan's history is distinguished by its enduring independence, remaining unconquered and isolated from any external powers and foreign countries. The National Day marks the pivotal era when Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was accepted by the chieftains and feudal lords, making him one of the most powerful leaders in Bhutan who brought together the unity in the country.

This special day commemorates the coronation of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck in 1907. He was the first King of Bhutan, known in the country by the title of “Druk Gyalpo,” which literally translates to “Dragon King” in Dzongkha, their national language. The entire nation comes together in celebrations embellished with traditional Bhutanese outfits and music. These festivities are testament to Bhutan’s rich cultural history and shared modern identity that define the country and its people.

2024 Celebrations

Celebrations during the national day have been held at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, which traditionally, would begin with the hoisting of Bhutan’s National Flag, singing of the National Anthem, and a public address of the current Druk Gyalpo. This would also include the procession of the statue of the late King Ugyen Wangchuck to honor him and the independence of Bhutan.

Offering of the National Flag, 2020
Photo courtesy of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck/Facebook page

Gearing Up with a Flash Mob

As part of this year’s festivities, over 700 people filled the city of Thimpu with their dynamic participation during the flash mob on December 7, 2024. The volunteers, dancers, and onlookers joined the Gorgom dance and grooved to Lungba Chung Chung which took place from the Clock Tower to the traffic circle and back.

Video Courtesy of National Day of Bhutan/Facebook page

National Day Concert

Following the success of last year’s stage, Bhutanese music has taken the spotlight once again for National Day Concert this year, featuring performances of local songs and popular hits like Kanimi, Jatshen, and 90s Rigsar Medley.

The concert was joined by over 50 singers and musicians, accompanied by 50 dancers and 280 volunteers, who have been preparing for a full-blast concert with the support of the DeSuung Skilling Programme, the Royal Office for Media, and M-Studio’s Choeying Jatsho as the overall coordinator. The Bhutan Youth Development Fund and Thimphu Thromde also extended their support to all the people working on the concert.

Video Courtesy of BBS Bhutan/Facebook page

National Day Lucky Draw

Excitement builds up for the highly anticipated National Day Lucky Draw, having around 78,000 people registering through the Bhutan App. This year, the lucky draw is open to all Bhutanese—whether you are attending the event in person, watching from home within Bhutan, or joining from abroad. Non-Bhutanese wishing to attend the lucky draw can also register in person at the Bhutan App booth at the Clock Tower Square in Thimphu.

Photo courtesy of BBS Bhutan