The Kingdom of Bhutan stands united in joy and reverence today as the nation celebrates the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck — our beloved K4. Across the country, from the highlands of Laya to the valleys of Punakha, the air is filled with prayers, songs, and gratitude for the monarch who devoted his life to the happiness and well-being of his people.
Revered as the “Bodhisattva King,” His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s legacy continues to shape every aspect of Bhutan’s national life. His wisdom, compassion, and foresight led Bhutan safely and confidently into the modern world, all the while preserving our spiritual values, our sovereignty, and the principles of Gross National Happiness that guide us to this day.
A Monarch of Vision and Compassion
When K4 ascended the Golden Throne in 1972 at just 17 years old, Bhutan was a quiet, remote nation beginning to find its modern identity. Over the next three decades, His Majesty led a remarkable transformation — strengthening governance, expanding education and healthcare, improving connectivity, and nurturing the unique Bhutanese identity rooted in our cultural and spiritual heritage.
Under His Majesty’s wise leadership, Bhutan embraced progress without losing its soul. He always reminded his people that development must serve happiness, harmony, and the greater good. For this reason, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo is not only remembered as a ruler but as a guide — a compassionate father of the nation whose vision continues to inspire generations.
Even after abdicating the throne in 2006 in favour of His Majesty The King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (K5), K4 remains an enduring moral compass. His counsel continues to be sought in matters of national importance, especially those concerning security and foreign relations.
A Celebration of Deep Friendship
This year’s celebration carries special significance as Bhutan welcomes the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, to Thimphu to join in honouring K4’s 70th birth anniversary. His visit is a reflection of the warm, time-tested friendship between Bhutan and India — a bond built on mutual trust, respect, and shared progress.
Prime Minister Modi’s presence is especially meaningful, as he had chosen Bhutan as his first foreign destination after assuming office in 2014, reaffirming India’s Neighbourhood First policy. His return to Thimphu today demonstrates how deeply both nations value their partnership, one nurtured over decades by their leaders and their people alike.
The Power of Partnership
Among the many lasting achievements of K4’s reign was his recognition of Bhutan’s vast hydropower potential. His Majesty envisioned that the rivers flowing through our valleys could bring prosperity to the kingdom and strengthen ties with our southern neighbour.
That vision continues to bear fruit. Today, Prime Minister Modi and His Majesty The King will jointly inaugurate the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu II Hydroelectric Project — a proud milestone in Bhutan’s journey of sustainable development. Built through cooperation between the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of India, the project symbolizes how shared resources can create mutual benefit and enduring friendship.
With new partnerships emerging between Bhutanese companies and Indian private enterprises such as Tata Power and Adani Power, the next chapter of hydropower development promises to be one of innovation, equity, and shared growth.
Beyond hydropower, India’s friendship continues to support Bhutan’s aspirations — from building infrastructure and schools to preserving our monasteries and sacred sites.
Gratitude for a Protector King
K4’s wisdom has always extended beyond development to matters of national security and sovereignty. His Majesty personally led Operation All Clear in 2003, when the Royal Bhutan Army successfully removed foreign insurgent groups from Bhutanese soil. That decisive action reflected K4’s deep understanding of regional security and his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Bhutan’s peace and independence.
It is this clarity of vision and courage of heart that continue to guide the nation, and which His Majesty the King (K5) carries forward today.
A Nation’s Blessing
On this auspicious occasion, Bhutanese citizens across the land offer heartfelt prayers for the long life and good health of our Fourth Druk Gyalpo. The celebrations in Thimphu are not merely an event — they are a heartfelt expression of love and gratitude from a nation that continues to draw strength and inspiration from His Majesty’s legacy.
As prayer flags flutter across our mountains and butter lamps glow in every home, Bhutan bows in reverence to the Bodhisattva King — the visionary who showed us the way to modern Bhutan, the protector who ensured our peace, and the compassionate leader who continues to bless us with his wisdom.
Long live His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo! May his blessings continue to illuminate the path of our beloved Kingdom.
