The first light of dawn on December 17th brought more than just warmth to the frostbitten crowd at Changlimithang Stadium; it brought a sense of triumph, camaraderie, and the promise of a memorable National Day.
The anticipation began well before sunrise. Eager attendees queued up as early as 5 PM on December 16th, enduring the bone-chilling cold with blankets, hot flasks, and sheer determination. By 9 PM, when the gates opened, the queue had already stretched to the National Memorial Chorten, weaving its way through the city like a ribbon of devotion. Within hours, the stadium was filled to capacity.
Families, bundled against the cold, braved the long night. The scene was one of endurance: shattered thermoses spilling steaming tea onto frozen ground, untouched packed lunches stiffened by the night’s chill, and shivering bodies huddled under layers of clothing. Yet, amidst the discomfort, the spirit of the people shone brightly.
For 78-year-old Utchi from Ramjar, Trashigang, this was a pilgrimage of a lifetime. “This is my first time coming to National Day in Thimphu in person,” she shared, her voice trembling with emotion. “Yesterday was so cold, but today, the bright sun has filled us back with warmth and energy.”
Among the sea of attendees was 10-year-old Pema Choden, whose excitement overpowered the night’s chill. Her persistent pleas to her mother—a vegetable vendor—had won her this cherished experience. “We will die one day,” she had reasoned, “so we have to at least go to the National Day once before we die—to see Their Majesties in person.”
The mother-daughter duo joined the line late that night, uncertain if they would secure seats. Yet, buoyed by determination, they pushed forward and were eventually rewarded with a spot inside the stadium.
The long hours were softened by acts of care. Steaming bowls of porridge were served at 2 AM and 5 AM to warm the crowd, while Bhutanese films and live performances kept spirits high. As the national anthem, “Palden Drukpa Gyalo,” echoed across the stadium, voices joined in unison, their breath visible in the icy air.
Volunteers, including Desuups and police officers, played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. Karma Dorji Drukpa, a Desuup on duty since 7 PM the previous evening, epitomized the collective resolve. “I am very happy to serve the people of Pelden Drukpa during this auspicious National Day,” he said. “It is also a privilege to see His Majesty and hear his speech today.”
The highlight of the day came when Their Majesties graced the event. Pema Choden’s eyes sparkled with joy as she pointed out familiar performers from the entertainment industry. But it was the moment when His Majesty the Fourth King passed near her that left her in awe. “So close,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the cheering crowd. “I have never seen His Majesty the Fourth King in real life. It feels surreal.”
While the crowd in Thimphu bore witness to history, similar celebrations unfolded across Bhutan and among Bhutanese communities abroad. For many, it was their first time experiencing the event in person, a memory etched in both hardship and pride. For others, it was a cherished tradition, a testament to their unwavering love for the nation.
As the sun set on another National Day, the stories of resilience, reverence, and unity lingered—a poignant reminder of what it means to be Bhutanese. National Day is not just a celebration; it is a living testament to a people’s enduring spirit, their deep-seated love for their country, and their profound respect for their leaders.
