Bhutan is a country that is known for its happiness, culture, and nature. But it is also a country that has a remarkable love story between its king and queen, who are the youngest reigning monarchs in the world. Their story is one of destiny, devotion, and democracy, and it has captured the hearts of many people around the world.
The king of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, was born on 21 February 1980, as the eldest son of the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and his third wife, Tshering Yangdon. He was educated in India, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and he graduated from Oxford University with a degree in foreign service and international relations. He became the crown prince in 1998, and he assumed the throne in 2006, after his father abdicated in his favor. He is known for his charismatic and compassionate leadership, and his efforts to promote education, health, and social welfare. He is also the champion of the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which measures the well-being of the people based on four pillars: sustainable development, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and good governance.
The queen of Bhutan, Jetsun Pema, was born on 4 June 1990, as the second of five children of Dhondup Gyaltshen and Sonam Choki. She comes from a noble family, with connections to the royal family and the former rulers of Bhutan. She was educated in Bhutan and India, and she graduated from Regent’s College, London, with a degree in psychology, international relations, and art history. She is known for her natural beauty, elegant fashion sense, and humble personality. She is also passionate about art, culture, and the environment, and she supports various causes and charities.
The king and queen of Bhutan met when they were very young, at a picnic in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The queen was only seven years old, and the king was 17. She was so intrigued by the handsome prince that she asked him to marry her. He was amused by her boldness, and he promised to marry her when they grew up, if they were still single and in love. He also gave her a hug, which she never forgot.
They met again when they were older, and they fell in love. They shared many interests and values, and they had a strong bond of friendship and respect. They also had the blessing of their families and the people of Bhutan, who admired their compatibility and sincerity. They became engaged in 2011, and the king announced his upcoming marriage during the opening of the parliament. He said, “As king, it is now time for me to marry. After much thought, I have decided that the person whom I want to marry is Jetsun Pema. While she is young, she is warm and kind in heart and character. These qualities, together with the wisdom that will come with age and experience, will make her a great servant to the nation.”
They married on 13 October 2011, in a lavish and traditional ceremony at the Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress and monastery. The wedding was attended by thousands of people, who came to witness the historic and joyous occasion. The king and queen exchanged vows and rings, and received blessings from the chief abbot and the monks. The king also crowned the queen with a raven crown, symbolizing his authority and her status as the dragon queen. The wedding was broadcast live on national television, and it was celebrated across the country with dances, songs, and prayers.
The king and queen of Bhutan have been happily married for ten years, and they have three children: Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, the heir apparent to the throne, born on 5 February 2016; Prince Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck, born on 19 March 2020; and Princess (name) Wangchuck, born on 9 March 2023. The king and queen are devoted parents, and they often share pictures and videos of their children on social media. They also travel together around the country and abroad, meeting and greeting the people and the dignitaries. They are widely admired and respected for their grace, humility, and generosity.
The love story of the king and queen of Bhutan is a real-life fairy tale, that has inspired and touched many people. They are the embodiment of the Bhutanese values and identity, and they represent the aspirations and dreams of the people. They are the guardians of the Bhutanese culture, religion, and environment, and they are the leaders of the Bhutanese nation. They are the dragon king and queen, who rule with wisdom and compassion, and who live with happiness and harmony.
Freelance Writer
