A wave of excitement is sweeping through the Bhutanese community in Australia. For many Bhutanese who have been away from home for years, His Majesty The King travelling all the way to Australia, especially to meet them, is a dream come true.
The tight knit community of Bhutanese diaspora across Australia are eagerly anticipating the Royal Visit of His Majesty The King in the coming days.
Community leaders are busy organizing the welcome they intend to offer His Majesty.
In Perth, preparations are ongoing in different pockets as the day for the Royal Visit nears by.
46-year-old Chimi Tshewang moved to Perth about ten years ago. He has been involved in preparations for most community events and important visits to Perth. Today, he is at the community temple lending a hand, but this time, feeling more privileged than ever.
“This time’s preparation has been more exciting because it’s for His Majesty. I have been having sleepless nights, wishing that His Majesty was visiting us tomorrow.”
In another part of the city, cultural performances are in full practice, often late into the evenings.
For people in Bhutan, there are numerous opportunities to meet His Majesty, on big national events as well as the Royal Tours and smaller events and audiences. But for those in Australia, this opportunity to meet His Majesty in foreign soil is truly special.
Many Bhutanese living in Australia haven’t had the opportunity to visit home even once since they arrived here. Whenever His Majesty addressed them directly during National Day speeches, it stirred emotion. His Majesty’s visit, which has been anticipated ever since His Majesty personally expressed wanting to meet Bhutanese in Australia, is seen as a gesture of love from the King to his people.
Tshering Samdrup, a resident of Perth said “We have eagerly awaited His Majesty’s visit for two to three years. Our prayers have been answered this time, and it will be an unforgettable moment for everyone here. We are looking forward to making this event momentous.”
According to Lam Tshering Wangchuk, the Royal Visit signifies the enduring bond between a king and his people.
Lam Tshering Wangchuk of Khamsum Zilnon Drukpai Lhakhang said “We must come together and pray for the Royal Visit’s success. More importantly, let’s pray for His Majesty’s well-being and unparalleled success in His Majesty’s endeavours. Let’s continue to seek the good fortune of being under His Majesty’s guidance and affection.”
Perth is home to the largest Bhutanese diaspora in Australia. According to a recent announcement, the number of people registering for the Royal Audience in the city has exceeded the venue’s capacity. As a result, His Majesty commanded a second Royal Audience on 17th October.
Chimmi Dorji, President of the Association of Bhutanese in Perth (ABPI) said “We want to request our fellow Bhutanese refrain from driving personal cars during the audience due to limited parking at the venue. We have already written to Transperth regarding additional transport services, so we encourage people to use public transport.”
So, this is where all the preparations will culminate on the 16th of October. The atmosphere is expected to be charged with emotion as families, young and old, come together to listen to His Majesty’s address.
The spirit in Canberra and Sydney is no different.
For many Bhutanese living in other parts of Australia, they have planned to travel to the nearest cities that His Majesty is visiting for the Royal Audience. His Majesty will visit Sydney, Canberra and Perth.
Sonam Wangdi/Tenzin Dorji
