The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The Royal Visit to Australia by His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and Their Royal Highnesses Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck, and Gyalsem Sonam Yangden Wangchuck has left an everlasting mark in the hearts of the Bhutanese people.
From Canberra to Sydney to Perth, thousands gathered to offer their respects to Their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses, and each event brought its unique atmosphere of joy, nostalgia, and pride.
Sonam Namgay, living in Sydney said, “As a Bhutanese living in Sydney, the anticipation leading up to His Majesty’s visit was incredibly profound for my family and me. We spent days preparing our traditional dress, knowing this occasion was not just another event; it was historic and truly special.”
His 9-year-old son had taken it upon himself to capture the moment in sketches of the Royal Highnesses, eager to present them to Their Majesties. “I watched him work tirelessly, pouring his heart into every stroke. It was beautiful to see his enthusiasm and pride in wanting to share his art,” said Sonam.
When the moment finally arrived, and His Majesty walked among the crowd, engaging with everyone, Sonam said he felt a rush of emotions. He said, “I was so overwhelmed with joy when my son showed His Majesty his sketch. In that fleeting moment, when His Majesty took the time to admire it and then graciously gave us his autograph, it felt like a dream come true.”
“It’s a memory I will cherish forever because out of all the events we’ve attended, this is the one I never want to erase. To honor that moment and embrace it fully, I plan to frame my son’s sketch. It symbolizes not just a special interaction, but also the deep connection we feel to our culture and our King. It’s a reminder of the joy that comes from our traditions and the pride of being Bhutanese, no matter where we are in the world,” said Sonam.
In Canberra, excitement filled the community as preparations for His Majesty The King’s visit came to an end.
A 28-year-old man, Tashi Tobgye Gyaltsen, recounted the energy leading up to the event. He said, “We organized gatherings to practice our performances, and many families arrived early to secure the front seats.”
Tashi shared how seeing His Majesty, in person, was an emotional moment that reconnected him to Bhutan. “Seeing His Majesty, in person, was an emotional moment; it felt like a connection to our homeland that I had longed for. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for having a Leader who truly cares for his people, no matter where we are in the world. His presence reminded us that we are never far from Bhutan, no matter how distant we may be,” Tashi said.
It was in Perth where the Royal Visit truly showcased the strength and resilience of the Bhutanese community.
The event took place amidst rain, yet this did not deter the spirit of those gathered.
Tenzin Dremid from Perth said, “As I stood there in the rain, my heart swelled with excitement to see His Majesty. Many families even bought raincoats, however, my friend who wore a raincoat, felt guilty when he saw His Majesty walking through the rain to meet us. His Majesty’s warmth in those moments reminded everyone that they were valued, rain or shine.”
“I looked around and saw families, eyes gleaming with emotion, and children holding handmade banners, all waiting to catch a glimpse of His Majesty. It reminded me that we were not just individuals braving the rain; we were a community united in our respect and love for the monarchy,” said Dremid
Yeshi Choden from Perth recalled His Majesty saying that some people feel shy to say they’re going to Australia. She said, “His Majesty said that we should never feel shy as we are also contributing to Bhutan’s GDP and making a difference abroad.” She added that hearing this was uplifting and validating for her.
She said that it made her reflect on the sacrifices many had made to build lives in a foreign land. Yet, it also stirred feelings of guilt about leaving Bhutan in search of better opportunities.
“Many in the crowd contended with similar feelings of guilt and longing for home. I looked around and noticed that His Majesty’s warm presence seemed to lift that burden for everyone,” Yeshi said, and added, “His Majesty reminded us that our journeys, though difficult, were part of a larger purpose.”
“At the end of the day, I left that moment feeling lighter, empowered, and deeply connected to both my community here and my roots in Bhutan,” she expressed.
From the excitement in Sydney to the emotional gatherings in Canberra and the resilient spirit in Perth, the visit served as a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between the Bhutanese people, both at home and abroad.
The Royal Visit was more than just a series of events; it was an opportunity for the Bhutanese diaspora to come together, reflect on their journeys, and celebrate their shared identity. His Majesty’s words and presence reminded everyone that, no matter where they are in the world, they are always part of a larger family united by love for their homeland.
