Punakha is all set to host the 113th National Day tomorrow. And as the Punakha Dzong hosts the historic event; the nation will travel back in time. According to scholars, the first National Day was celebrated in 1971 in the country, 64 years after the First Druk Gyalpo, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned.
Pungthang Dewa Chhenpoi Phodrang or the Punakha Dzong located between Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu is draped with colourful fabrics. The courtyards are decorated with Thangkas, silk brocades and varieties of flowers. A festive mood surrounds the Dzong.
“It is a place where the first king was crowned. And also all the religious leaders including the Je Khenpos had been appointed in this dzong. So, Pungthang Dewa Chhenpoi Phodrang to Bhutan is a seat of both religious and political leaders,” said Karma Rangdrol, the Tsugla Lopen.
The Dzong also homes the country’s most treasured possession, Rangjung Kharsapani.
Unlike other National Days, the celebration will be closed to public participation this year in the wake of the pandemic.
“Due to the pandemic, we are avoiding large gatherings. We are hosting the day in the courtyard of the Dzong. The public might be worried that they won’t be able to participate in the celebration but the virtual celebration will be made available to not only the Bhutanese in the country but also to those residing outside the country,” said the Home Minister, Dasho Sherub Gyeltshen.
His Majesty will address the nation from the Dzong tomorrow. The entertainment program traditionally performed by different sections of the society at the venue will be broadcast live on television.
The QR codes for the National Day Lucky Draw will be shown on Television during the program.
Changa Dorji, Passang Dorji & Sangay Chezom
