Bhutan’s 118th National Day: A Celebration of Heritage, Harmony, and Our Bhutanese Family on Campus

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, between India and China, lies the Kingdom of Bhutan, a land often described as the last great Himalayan kingdom. Known globally for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a country where tradition and modernity walk side by side, where spirituality shapes daily life, and where cultural identity is preserved with quiet pride. Small in size but immense in values, Bhutan continues to inspire the world with its commitment to balance, sustainability, and human well-being. Every year on 17 December, Bhutan celebrates its National Day, a date that marks the historic moment in 1907 when Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned as the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King), unifying the nation and establishing the hereditary monarchy. This day is not merely a public holiday; it is a powerful reminder of Bhutan’s journey as a sovereign nation, its resilience, unity, and deep respect for leadership, culture, and national identity. In 2025, Bhutan proudly commemorates its 118th National Day, honoring over a century of stability, peace, and cultural continuity. Across Bhutan, the day is marked with traditional ceremonies, national addresses, cultural performances, and displays of gratitude toward the monarchy and the nation’s shared values. People don their traditional attire gho for men and kira for women (as you may see around campus) not as a costume, but as a living expression of identity and respect. It is this profound connection to heritage that makes Bhutan’s National Day not just a celebration of history, but a reaffirmation of who the Bhutanese people are. This year, the significance of Bhutan’s National Day resonates strongly on our campus as well. For many of us, 2025 marked our first meaningful interaction with Bhutanese students, and what a remarkable encounter it has been. Since their arrival, the Bhutanese community has brought with them not only academic knowledge, but also a quiet wisdom and cultural depth that has enriched campus life in countless ways. Their humility, discipline, and mutual respect are visible in everyday interactions, leaving a lasting impression on those around them. One cannot overlook the grace with which they uphold their traditions. Their commitment to wearing traditional attire, even far from home, speaks volumes about their pride in identity and their respect for culture. It is rare and deeply admirable, a reminder that tradition does not fade with distance, but grows stronger when carried with purpose. Beyond appearances, their selfless participation has truly defined their presence on campus. From the vibrant celebrations of International Cultural Day to the high-energy moments of AFCON 2025, the Bhutanese students have shown up enthusiastically, wholeheartedly, and without hesitation. They have contributed not for recognition, but out of genuine belonging, blending seamlessly into the diverse tapestry of our campus community. We have seen them. We have learned from them. And we have come to deeply appreciate them. As Bhutan celebrates its 118th National Day today, we join in that celebration from afar with respect, warmth, and heartfelt wishes. To our Bhutanese family on campus: thank you for sharing your culture, your values, and your spirit with us. May this National Day be filled with pride, joy, and reflection, and may you feel the same sense of unity here that you feel back home. Happy 118th National Day to the Kingdom of Bhutan and to the Bhutanese who have become an inseparable part of our campus story.