All Bhutanese are joined in grief as we try to reconcile with the images of the great Wangduephodrang Dzong consumed by flames and billowing smoke. Of all the fires that have reminded us of the impermanence of life and its manifestations, this has pierced our hearts no less painfully than the terrible sense of loss we endured when, Paro Taktsang, the holiest of our shrines was also destroyed by fire.
But Taktsang has been fully restored and it is no less sacred or significant. It is in fact, more cherished and revered today because the fire awakened all of us to the fragility and vulnerability of this most precious heritage. It gave to many of us the opportunity to contribute to its full and embellished restoration. In so doing, our nation and its people were blessed with great merit (sonam).
Wangduephodrang Dzong did not succumb for the first time to the reality and inevitability of destruction. It was destroyed before and it will be destroyed again by forces beyond our control. What we must remember is that it was rebuilt and it always stood as the Dzong that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built until the day before. We the people of Bhutan have not lost but gained another opportunity to renew and further enrich our proud heritage. The people of Shar Dhar Gye will have their dzong again. So, like the indomitable will of the Bhutanese people and the fame of Palden Drukpa, Wangdue Dzong will rise again with greater glory and magnificence.
By the wisdom of our King, all the relics that were gifted by Zhabdrung himself are intact. The monks that filled the monastery will continue with their prayers and the Dzongkhag will continue to function in the name of the great people of Wangduephodrang. We must seize the opportunity to build a stronger, more durable and glorious Dzong in the name of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and by the will of His Majesty the King.
