November 11 2018, Thimphu: The annual observation of the National GNH Day was led by GNHCB today. The programme included a collective offering of prayers at the sanctum of Semtokha Dzong in the morning for the happiness, wellbeing and long life of His Majesty the fourth King. An International Cultural festival on the theme “Expressions of Happiness” was held in the evening.

The celebration was part of the annual “GNH Experience” organized by GNHCB on 11 November on different themes coinciding with His Majesty Drugyal Zhipa’s Birth Anniversary. This year’s event was held at the Centenary Park in Thimphu.

From 10:30 AM onwards, various stalls related to health and wellbeing such as meditation yoga, Pranic Healing, traditional medicine among others remained open at the Centenary Park for the benefit of the public.

Starting from 4 PM, the thematic “Expressions of Happiness” programme was attended by various dignitaries in the country. This year’s theme was designed as an international cultural festival in Bhutan where Bhutanese and world citizens present in the country demonstrated creative expressions to experience, promote and embrace the values of GNH through dance, music, poetry and other artistic performances.

Among interesting items presented were musical performances by a visiting Chinese group, a performance by an American group and poetry and song by members of Bangladesh Embassy. A skit on GNH was also performed by students of Jigme Losel Primary School.

“This programme and the day-long activity was designed to inspire deeper understanding of Gross National Happiness that cuts across boundaries,” said Ms. Sonam Tsoki Tenzin, the Officiating Executive Director of GNHCB.

The Takse College of Language and Culture Studies in Trongsa also celebrated the day by conducting varieties of culture programmes and mask dances. At the same time the Samtse college of Education also marked the day by advocating about GNH in their college. The activities in both the colleges were done by the GNH club members. The clubs were established with guidance from GNHCB.

Media Contact

Gopi Kharel

Communications Officer

Gross National Happiness Centre Bhutan

Email: gopi.kharel@gnhcentrebhutan.org

T: 02-321263

M: +975 17316266

www.gnhcentrebhutan.org