In a moving tribute at the Bhutan Echoes festival yesterday, French Ambassador to India, Dr. Thierry Mathou, celebrated the qualities of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, likening him to a Bodhisattva. Dr. Mathou, who co-authored the book The Bodhisattva King: His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck of Bhutan with Bhutanese writer Tshering Tashi, shared profound insights about the revered monarch’s legacy.
The book, a compilation of tributes from various individuals, reflects on the extraordinary contributions of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, whom Dr. Mathou regards as embodying the compassionate and selfless characteristics of a Bodhisattva. The term ‘Bodhisattva’ originates from the Sanskrit words ‘Bodhi’ (awakening) and ‘sattva’ (being), and traditionally describes an enlightened being who chooses to remain in the world to aid others in their spiritual journey.
In an engaging conversation with Dawa Penjor, General Secretary of the Bhutan India Friendship Association, Dr. Mathou detailed the sublime qualities of His Majesty, including compassion, loving-kindness, equanimity, and empathy. Highlighting the significant initiatives of the Fourth King’s reign, Dr. Mathou praised the inclusion of the Lhotshampa community into the mainstream, the strategic 2003 military operation against insurgents, crucial border negotiations with China, and the decentralization efforts marked by the establishment of Dzongkhag Yargay Tshogdu and Gewog Yargay Tshogchhung.
Reflecting on these initiatives, Dr. Mathou emphasized His Majesty’s enduring patience and compassion towards insurgents, underscoring the monarch’s Bodhisattva-like qualities. He also lauded the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s unprecedented early abdication, a move that exemplified his selfless dedication to the welfare of Bhutan. This act, Dr. Mathou noted, is unparalleled and unlikely to be witnessed in other parts of the world.
The French Ambassador praised the Bhutanese monarchy as reformist, crediting each King with unique contributions to the nation’s history. He highlighted how the First King unified Bhutan, the Second King shielded the nation from the independence movements sweeping Southeast Asia, and the Third King spearheaded modernization.
Dr. Mathou attributed Bhutan’s enduring independence to the wisdom and leadership of its monarchs, a legacy that continues to guide the nation’s destiny. In a lighter vein, Dawa Penjor humorously described Dr. Mathou as ‘a Bhutanese reincarnate in a French body’, acknowledging the Ambassador’s deep connection with Bhutan, which spans over four decades.
As the Bhutan Echoes festival continues, the reflections and tributes to Bhutan’s leadership underscore the unique and enduring legacy of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, inspiring admiration and respect from international dignitaries and local citizens alike.
