A King and Father gives everything for his nation. And the people then rise to honour him. This was what happened in 2025, as Bhutan marked the 70th Birth Anniversary of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. This milestone was not merely a celebration of longevity, but a tribute to a monarch whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people have shaped modern Bhutan. Across the nation, from Thimphu’s bustling streets to the serene highlands of Bumthang and Trongsa, the country came alive.
The significance of this anniversary extends beyond ceremonial observances. For the Bhutanese people, the 70th birth anniversary was a moment to reflect on the Fourth King’s transformative leadership and enduring legacy. Hailed as the architect of Gross National Happiness (GNH), His Majesty redefined development in Bhutan by emphasizing well-being, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and equitable socio-economic progress. His Majesty secured Bhutan’s sovereignty in one of the country’s most testing times. For the citizens, celebrating this milestone was an affirmation of shared values, national pride, and gratitude for the visionary policies that continue to shape their lives.
The year-long celebrations opened in early 2025 with spiritual observances and cultural programs setting the tone for a year of nationwide homage. Government offices, schools, monasteries, and public spaces were adorned with vibrant decorations, prayer flags, and portraits of the King, creating an atmosphere that combined festivity with reflection. His Majesty’s life and reign were highlighted in public exhibitions, art displays, and historical retrospectives, allowing citizens to witness the trajectory of a monarch who has tirelessly championed education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and rural development.
At the centre of the celebrations was the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a major spiritual gathering held over November 4–17, 2025, in Thimphu. As part of the tribute to the Fourth King, the festival drew Buddhist masters, monks, scholars, and practitioners from across the world in a shared aspiration for peace and compassion. For 15 days, the Changlimithang grounds transformed into a sanctuary of devotion and ritual. Collective prayers were offered not only for Bhutan’s sovereign but for “peace and happiness for all the world.” The festival included Kalachakra empowerment ceremonies — sacred Vajrayana Buddhist rites symbolizing cosmic interconnectedness and world peace — presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo, alongside international Buddhist luminaries. A particularly historic moment was the ordination of 265 Buddhist nuns (bhikshunis) from countries spanning Europe, Asia, and Oceania — only the second such ceremony in Bhutan’s history — underscoring the kingdom’s role in advancing spiritual inclusivity and global Buddhist cooperation.
In a profound act of cultural and spiritual solidarity, sacred relics of Lord Buddha — known as the Piprahwa Kapilavastu Relics — were brought to Bhutan from India for public veneration. The relics, regarded as among the most venerated tangible connections to the Buddha’s life, were enshrined at the Grand Kuenray Hall of Tashichhodzong and remained on display for devotees from November 8–18.
The heart of the anniversary was 11 November 2025, the Fourth King’s actual birth anniversary, which coincided auspiciously with Lhabab Duechen, the Buddhist celebration of Lord Buddha’s descent from heaven. At Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, tens of thousands gathered — including ordinary Bhutanese, members of the Royal Family, government leaders, Buddhist teachers, and foreign guests. A highlight was the address by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who expressed “everlasting gratitude” on behalf of the nation for the Fourth King’s service, wisdom, and benevolence.
Among the dignitaries was India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose attendance underscored the deep and enduring friendship between Bhutan and India.
Across the Nation, people participated in cultural performances, sacred mask dances, and communal celebrations that reflected profound devotion to His Majesty’s service and leadership. Festivities included community programs and collective prayers for His Majesty’s long life, encapsulating the heartfelt appreciation held by people of all walks of life for his enduring contributions to peace and progress.
In places like Gelephu, the celebration took on a deeply cultural character. Residents gathered at the public ground in traditional dress, sharing Tomza—food lovingly packed in cloth—symbolizing collective gratitude and the Fourth King’s emphasis on cultural preservation, one of the core pillars of Bhutan’s philosophy of GNH.
The anniversary was marked not just across Bhutan but also by Bhutanese communities and diplomatic missions around the world. In cities such as New York, Bangkok, and Geneva, Bhutanese expatriates and local friends of Bhutan joined in prayer offerings, cultural performances, and community celebrations, reinforcing the international resonance of His Majesty’s legacy. Butter lamp offerings, prayer ceremonies (Tsedrup), and recitations (Zhabten) were organized in New York, while in India, Bhutanese missions held special events including cultural performances and communal celebrations to honour the King.
Beyond public festivities, institutions across Bhutan also took part in commemorating the anniversary in meaningful ways. The Justice Sector of Bhutan held a pledge ceremony inspired by the Fourth King’s vision of a just, responsive, and citizen centric legal system—reaffirming the monarchy’s influence on governance and public service values.
The Ministry of Health launched the National Traditional Medicine Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2034) in late November, aligning with the anniversary and reinforcing Bhutan’s cultural heritage in health and wellness. The One-Child, One-Egg Program was rolled out in schools nationwide to improve child nutrition while supporting rural poultry farming and local livelihoods.
Dedicated to the Fourth King, Her Majesty the Queen launched a book called “The Portrait of a Kingdom.” In what is a touching moment, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Tseyring Pem Wangchuck composed a song dedicated to His Majesty. On the other hand the Bhutan Echoes 2025 was dedicated to His Majesty the Fourth King.
For the people of Bhutan, the anniversary was deeply emotional and unifying. It was a reminder of the King’s role in transforming the country into a nation that measures success not only by economic growth but by happiness, cultural integrity, and environmental sustainability. As the year close, the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth King stands as a testament to a life dedicated to the welfare, happiness, and unity of the Bhutanese people. It has been a year of reflection, celebration, and inspiration—a reminder that the King’s vision continues to guide Bhutan’s path toward a harmonious, prosperous, and enlightened society.
Tashi Namgyal
From Thimphu
