January 21, 2026
BUMTHANG – For many Bhutanese living abroad, physical distance from home has only deepened their sense of belonging and their desire to give back.
That quiet but powerful commitment took tangible form this National Day, as more than 3,000 Bhutanese living in Australia came together to collectively offer four sacred Thongdrols (giant appliqué) to the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre during the 118th National Day celebrations.
The initiative reflects a shared belief that distance should not weaken cultural ties. For many in the diaspora, living abroad has strengthened their desire to preserve and contribute to Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
However, the effort did not begin with public announcements or fundraising drives. Instead, it grew quietly, rooted in trust, friendship, and a shared sense of purpose.
Touched by the spiritual significance of National Day and the importance of preserving Bhutan’s sacred heritage, the Executive Director of the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre, Dr Kuenga Lhendup (PhD), personally reached out to over 50 Bhutanese friends living in Australia.
What followed was simple. Each of the initial 50 individuals reached out to 10 more people, who in turn formed their own small groups. Each group aimed to collect about AUD dollar 1,000 through small, joyful contributions of AUD dollar 10 to 20 per person. Public fundraising was consciously avoided.
“The idea was to reach out to as many Bhutanese as possible through small, meaningful acts of giving,” said Dr Kuenga Lhendup. “It was never about the amount, but about collective merit and shared responsibility.”
Over 3,000 Bhutanese, including family members, contributed to the initiative. The effort was not restricted to Bumthaps alone but intentionally opened to Bhutanese from all regions, reinforcing the idea that cultural preservation is a shared national duty.
Tashi Dema said there are many donation drives, but this initiative stood out because the minimum contribution was kept as low as AUD 10, making it easy for everyone to participate.
“There are many causes seeking contributions every day, but I personally chose this initiative because there was no hesitation in contributing as it is both historical and deeply meaningful,” she said. “The spirit of collective giving and the message behind it are very strong.”
Sangay Dema, who is also living in Australia, said that most people were willing to contribute, and everyone donated something, with some even giving more than AUD 10 to support the collective initiative.
“This donation drive allows us, Bhutanese living in Australia, to give back to our country and our King, and to pass this spirit on to the next generation,” she said. “By keeping the contribution minimum, it allows everyone to participate, whether they can donate a little or more.”
Tsherin Palden, a PhD student in Australia, said that living far away, they often worry about losing touch with their roots.
“Contributing in this structured yet simple way showed that distance does not diminish devotion to one’s King and country,” he said. “It allowed Bhutanese across Australia to take part in preservation in a meaningful, collective way, reinforcing that our heritage thrives through shared responsibility, no matter where we are.”
He said it teaches that preserving culture is a shared and inclusive journey.
One way, future generations could look at these Thongdrols is not only as artistic and spiritual treasures, but also as symbols of how Bhutanese around the world can unite, innovate, and give back to their homeland with heart and humility.”
The donation comprises four Thongdrols, including large embroidered and appliqué scrolls depicting Lord Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, and Tertön Pema Lingpa. These sacred images hold profound spiritual significance, believed to bestow blessings and liberation upon those who view them with faith.
The Thongdrols were consecrated by His Holiness the Je Khenpo on November 24, 2025 in Thimphu and were unfurled for the first time on December 18 during the visit of members of the Royal Family to the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre. The occasion also marked the museum’s formal opening.
Wangduechhoeling Palace itself carries deep historical and symbolic weight. Once the royal residence of Bhutan’s First and Second Kings, the palace now stands as a living monument to the nation’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Today, it operates as a museum and cultural centre under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen, Jetsun Pema Wangchuck.
Dr Kuenga Lhendup said that despite physical distance, many Bhutanese maintain strong emotional, cultural, and spiritual ties to their country.
“Bhutanese, no matter where they are in the world, always have one foot in the country,” he said. “They remit money home to support families, communities, and traditions.”
He added that the growing remittances from Australia and frequent contributions towards tshechus, drups, kangsols, temple construction, and support for monastic institutions across Bhutan are clear evidence of this enduring bond.
“Importantly, diaspora-led initiatives like this foster a sense of collective ownership of Bhutanese heritage,” he said.
