What a momentous day at Coronation Park! We inaugurated the 19th Tarayana Fair and celebrated our 22nd Foundation Day with warmth, joy, and a renewed spirit under the theme โ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐ ๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐.โ
We were deeply honored by the gracious presence of Vairochana Rinpoche Ngawang Jigme Jigten Wangchuk, Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, Excellencies, esteemed dignitaries, distinguished guests and Her Majestyโs companions of the early days, as we paid tribute to her visionary leadership and compassionate service, commemorating the auspicious 70th Birth Anniversary. The sacred Kusung Thugten Mendrel offering was made, invoking blessings for Her Majesty and the Foundationโs continued journey of service.
The day unfolded with moments of deep emotion, celebration, and reflection, each one a tribute to the enduring legacy of Her Majesty Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.
A particularly moving moment was the recitation of โ๐ป๐๐ ๐ฎ๐๐๐๐ ๐ป๐๐๐,โ a profoundly beautiful poem composed by Viarochana Rinpoche Ngawang Jigme Jigten Wangchuk in honor of Her Majesty. This was followed by the much-anticipated launch of the photobook โ๐ป๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ธ๐๐๐๐โ by DRUKPA Photography, a powerful visual journey that captures the lives transformed by Her Majestyโs inspiring walks through Bhutanโs heartlands.
Adding a personal touch to the occasion, two of Her Majestyโs companions from those early rural visits, more than 25 years ago, shared treasured memories from their time walking from village to village. Four community representatives also shared how their lives were transformed after Her Majesty visited their villages.
The Tarayana Dragons exhibited their journey of service and impact across the country. Simultaneously, rural communities from all corners of Bhutan came together at the fairgrounds, bringing with them the vibrant spirit of their crafts, cultures, and stories. It was a beautiful expression of unity in diversity and the shared dream of rural prosperity.
A special segment of the event was dedicated to celebrating the long-serving staff of the Tarayana Foundation. Those who have served for ten years or more were honored under the theme โWith Gratitude: 10 Years and Beyond โ Celebrating Service from the Heart.โ Their dedication stands as a cornerstone of the Foundationโs work and values.
The Tarayana Clubs from Yangchenphu HSS and Babesa HSS presented captivating cultural performances. Community representatives from Paro, Samtse, Haa, and Trashigang performed a dance and a soulful rendition of the classic Tarayana Song, sung beautifully by Sonam Wangdi and Pinky Yangdon, which filled the venue with joy and excitement.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our distinguished guests, partners, and the ever-dedicated Tarayana family for reaffirming our shared commitment to compassion, community upliftment, and service. Together, we move forwardโbuilding a happier, more resilient Bhutan, one community at a time.
