Excitement is growing for the 118th National Day which will take place in Bumthang in two days’ time. While all eyes will be on what unfolds at the Wangduechhoeling palace grounds on 17th December, thousands of volunteers are already working quietly, behind the scenes, to ensure the historic day is celebrated without a hitch.
As the first light of dawn touches Bumthang, a thin layer of frost blankets the Wangduechhoeling Palace ground.
Soon, the stillness gives way to the beat of drums, rhythmic footsteps and the hum of rehearsals.
From the ceremonial Chipdrel procession to vibrant cultural dances, every movement is practised and refined as the grand celebration draws closer.
But beyond the colour, costumes and choreography lies a quieter dedication.
Behind the scenes, hundreds of volunteers are already on their feet, coordinating teams, checking routes and preparing for the thousands expected to gather.
For many, volunteering on National Day is a moment of pride; for others, a lifelong commitment.
At 64, Phurpa is the oldest volunteer from the Bhutan Red Cross Society at this year’s celebration. A long-time volunteer, he sees it as his personal duty to keep Bumthang clean and welcoming.
“Just thinking of Their Majesties and the Royal Family being here motivates us to do better. Even after a tiring day of cleaning, I feel very content.”
In the nearby kitchen, large pots simmer as steam rises into the cold winter air.
Despite the winter break, school cooks have returned to ensure warm meals for performers, volunteers and officials. Their day starts as early as 3 in the morning.
Leading one of the cooking teams is 40-year-old Tshering Dorji, who has been volunteering for the past two weeks.
Though he may not be able to meet Their Majesties in person, he says feeding those celebrating the day is his way of being part of the celebration.
“We want the children preparing for the National Day to be well fed with nutritious food. I feel very lucky to be able to volunteer this year.”
Beyond the ground and kitchens, teams from the Bhutan Power Corporation are also working to ensure uninterrupted electricity in Bumthang, inspecting lines and upgrading transformers ahead of the celebrations.
According to the Bhutan Power Corporation, preparations for the 118th National Day included installing five new distribution substations and upgrading eight existing ones, along with major power line improvements, fire-mitigation works and right-of-way clearing. Diesel generators and UPS systems were also installed at key locations, including the Wangduechhoeling Palace, Domkhar Palace and Chamkhar Throm, to ensure safe, reliable and uninterrupted power supply during the celebrations.
Hundreds of De-suups are also volunteering in various roles spread across the celebration ground. They are helping with the beautification, crowd management, guiding visitors and assisting organisers.
With just one day to go for the 118th National Day, it is this unseen dedication, from volunteers like Phurba and Tshering that keeps the celebration moving quietly and smoothly, from behind the scenes.
Tashi Dekar
