In the newly-established Bhutanese democracy, mutual trust and respect remain as strong as ever between the king and his people. In November 2008, they came to Thimphu from all over the country, on foot, horseback or trucks to rejoice in the coronation of the Fifth Dragon King and offer their good wishes and congratulations.
The President of neighbouring India was the only Head of State invited to attend, in a deliberate effort to cut cost and concentrate on public celebrations for the nation's enjoyment.
Bhutan Coronation Day
On 6th of November 2008, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was crowned by his father in a private ceremony, held in Tashichho dzong in the capital Thimphu. The country had waited nearly two years for this auspicious date but on that bright autumn morning, almost everyone could watch the coronation on a television screen.
In the afternoon, thousands gathered in the ceremonial grounds to pay their respects to the newly crowned king. They wore their finest traditional clothes, patiently waiting for their turn to offer traditional auspicious scarves. The king slowly made his way around the crowds, handing out coronation coins with a smile and a word or two for everyone. When time ran out, he decided to extend the coronation celebrations by a day so all could meet him.
Bhutan Coronation Celebrations
On the following days, crowds waited outside the ceremonial grounds long before dawn. The king reviewed the troops, all bagpipes and silver bands, addressed the nation from the royal stand and received gifts from his subjects, cereals, rice, yaks and more, to be returned to their owners with his blessing. Then it was time to watch the public entertainment. The king did not miss a single event but left his place now and then to mingle with the people and bless their children.
There was dancing and singing from every corner of the land, performed by children and students proud to display the kingdom’s diverse culture. Costumes were simply made but highly colourful and every dance was as gracious as the last. After the folklore came the games, accompanied by raucous laughter in true Bhutanese fashion. Among the most popular were the strong man competition and the pillow fight when every loser fell in a tub of water.
Bhutan National Sport
No celebration in Bhutan would be complete without archery, the national sport. Every man and boy can handle a bow and arrow but fun or competition, it’s all about skills, never to harm or cause damage. Games involve ritual offerings and prayers, wives and girlfriends encouraging their team with poetry and song and victory dances whenever the target is hit.
On the final day of the coronation celebrations, the Prime Minister and royal princes were first to join in, soon followed by king Khesar who obviously enjoyed himself and proved an excellent shot. Only the traditional farewell dance put an end to the game.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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