In recent times, we’ve celebrated one of our own, Sangay Tsheltrim, who has risen as a shining star not only in Bhutan but also across the border in India.
Tsheltrim, a Bhutanese actor with a military background, has achieved remarkable success in the world of cinema. His recent role in the Bollywood blockbuster “Jawan,” alongside the iconic ‘King of Bollywood’ Shah Rukh Khan, has catapulted him to overnight stardom. Every notification on his phone brings messages of admiration from fans spanning two nations. Tsheltrim himself often ponders if this newfound fame is all a dream, as sharing the screen with SRK was a dream he had never dared to dream before.
However, it’s not just his Bollywood adventures that make Tsheltrim an extraordinary figure. His journey is a captivating blend of valor, passion, and destiny. Commissioned into the Royal Bhutan Army in 2005, he quickly rose to join the esteemed ranks of the Royal Bodyguards. His unwavering commitment gained international attention when he was entrusted with close protection duties for India’s former Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh.
Yet, the allure of another passion was undeniable. Inspired by the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tsheltrim’s desire to pursue bodybuilding went far beyond a passing interest. The transformation from a skinny boy to a national-level bodybuilder, winning gold medals for Bhutan, was no small achievement. During this phase, a chance encounter with Haider Khan, the renowned photographer-director, steered Tsheltrim’s course toward Bollywood.
Tsheltrim’s journey in Bollywood commenced in 2021 with the film “Radhe,” where he shared the screen with Salman Khan. Interestingly, growing up in the border town of Zhemgang, he had been an avid fan of the Khan duo. It seemed like destiny when he starred alongside his childhood heroes, first Salman and then Shah Rukh.
Behind the glitz and glamour of Bollywood is a man deeply rooted in his heritage. His debut film, “Singye” (2018), mirrored India’s “Singham” and tackled the issue of the drug trade in Bhutan. This film not only catapulted him to stardom in Bhutan but also solidified his status as the country’s first action hero. His journey from being a real-life protector of our nation to portraying one on the silver screen is a testament to his versatility.
Tsheltrim’s connection with India extends beyond Bollywood. His collaboration with Assamese filmmakers and technicians in “Singye” reflects the seamless synergy of cinema across borders. He is now eagerly looking forward to starring in an Assamese film, further strengthening his ties with India’s northeastern region.
Above all, Tsheltrim’s humility shines brightly. Whether it’s his continuous effort to learn from his co-stars or his grounded interactions with them off-camera, he embodies a rare blend of talent and modesty. For him, the love and appreciation he receives from fans are opportunities to serve his country better and create films that resonate with his fellow Bhutanese.
While he may be making waves in Bollywood, Bhutan remains his first love. As he prepares for the screening of “Lingpoen,” Tsheltrim’s unwavering focus is on making Bhutan and our revered king proud. In him, Bhutan has not only discovered an actor but also a gem who shines both on and off the screen.
