Owning a house is always a great feeling. Apart from the feeling of security and stability it provides, one can also experience a sense of belonging and joy. Thanks to the Tarayana Foundation and the Bhutan Dragons Motorcycle Club, an elderly couple from a remote village in Zhemgang will finally get to know what it feels like to own a house.
77-year-old Changzom and 88-year-old Tandin from Ghonphai village in Trong Gewog in Zhemgang received the house as a gift recently. The house was constructed upon the Royal command of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. And the Tarayana Dragons or the Bhutan Dragons Motorcycle Club initiated the project.
Today, the elderly couple can be seen peacefully chanting prayers inside their new home. Recollecting their old days, they said that life was not easy without a house.
“At some point in time, we also stayed in a cowshed. It was very difficult as we did not own a house,” said Changzom.
“So far, I have managed by staying in a rented house and many makeshift huts. Now that we have got ourselves a permanent house here, I don’t have to worry much,” said Tandin.
And with their children away, they say that the house is spacious enough for them. The house, for now, has two rooms: a sitting room, and a kitchen with an attached toilet.
“I have children but all are living in other parts of the country. I met her and since then we have been living together away from our children,” said Tandin.
“Although a little late, I am happy that I don’t have to pay rents anymore. Earlier, it was always difficult especially towards the end of the month when rents were due,” added Changzom.
Along with the new home, the couple was also provided with a few basic household items and rations.
And now with a place to call their own, both of them have decided to spend the rest of their life chanting prayers for the benefit of all sentient beings.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
