The grandest style of a royal couple’s arrival could hardly surpass piloting their own aircraft and safely landing on one of the most challenging runways in the world. Yet, this is precisely what Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Thailand, accomplished during their recent state visit to Bhutan; an immaculate display of confidence, capability and grace. Many could scarcely believe, when it was told that the pilot and co-pilot of the aircraft landing at Paro International Airport were none other than the King and Queen themselves.
For a monarch among the richest and most revered in the world, what a small, humble country like Bhutan could possibly offer? Bhutan’s development philosophy, rooted in Gross National Happiness, values well-being over material gain. Judging by the radiant smile worn by Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand during cultural programs and engagements, one could sense that Bhutan offered something far beyond what money can buy: genuine warmth, cultural richness, spiritual serenity and mindfulness.
The Bhutanese royal family, led by His Majesty the King, embodied the nation’s humility and hospitality, creating an atmosphere of dignity and kinship throughout the visit. It was not just a ceremonial state affair; it was a celebration of shared values and deepening bonds between two monarchies and their peoples. Their Majesties of Bhutan standing near the tarmac, watching until the aircraft was airborne, was a poignant testament to their genuine love and deep respect for their royal guests
More than just strengthening diplomatic relations, this visit offered a subtle glimpse into Bhutan’s peace and harmony. The Kingdom, tucked away in the Himalayas, remains a sanctuary of balance, something that will be further exemplified through the visionary Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). Conceived and guided by His Majesty the King of Bhutan, the GMC will be unlike any other city; harmonious with nature and rooted in spiritual and sustainable living. While its scale and vision might be beyond the comprehension of the common man, Bhutanese citizens hold no doubt in its success, for it is built on trust in His Majesty’s foresight.
In Bhutan, reverence for our monarchs is profound. When another monarch visits, that reverence is extended with heartfelt sincerity. The crowds lining the roads to welcome the Thai royal couple were a testament to this deep respect. The Bhutanese bowed low, while Thai citizens knelt and walked on their knees in the presence of their monarch, this physical expressions of reverence by Thai citizens to their monarch outshone our physical display of respect and reverence.
As the visit came to a close, it was again Their Majesties at the controls of their aircraft, waving from the cockpit when the aircraft taxied towards the runway for takeoff. The heavy metal bird soared into the skies under the capable hands of a royal couple, leaving behind a country filled with admiration and awe.
The most unforgettable moment of this historic visit was, without doubt, the fact that the pilot and co-pilot were the King and Queen themselves. This may never happen again in history. For those fortunate enough to witness it, this story will live on and shared with children and grandchildren as a legend of the day when the monarchs of a distant land flew their own plane to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, like one drives their own car, and left behind a tale of royal grace that Bhutan will never forget.
