GUWAHATI: Assam’s Chief Minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, extended a gracious welcome to His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, as he arrived at LGBI Airport in Guwahati on Friday morning.
The royal arrival was met with great anticipation and respect, with dignitaries including Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and Assam’s Director General of Police, GP Singh, among others, present to receive the esteemed guests.
From the airport, King Wangchuck, who has been accompanied by his queen, Jetsun Pema, and their two sons, embarked on a journey to the sacred Maa Kamakhya Temple, an iconic symbol of Assamese culture and heritage.
The journey to the temple was made all the more special as it was punctuated by lively and colourful folk-dance performances along the way, filling the city’s streets with an exuberant and festive atmosphere.
At the temple, the monarch was accorded a warm and ceremonious welcome by the temple authorities, who extended their respects and honours to His Majesty.
Following a solemn prayer seeking blessings from Goddess Kamakhya, King Wangchuck engaged in interations with the temple officials, deepening his understanding of the temple’s historical, cultural, and religious significance in Assam.
His Majesty’s visit to Assam is marked by a rich and diverse itinerary. He is scheduled to visit the Kamakhya Hills, participate in a cultural programme organised by the Assam government, and enjoy a delightful dinner hosted by Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on November 3.
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On November 4, the royal family will embark on an adventure to explore the renowned Kaziranga National Park, famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
The warm hospitality continues as Chief Minister Sarma is set to host a dinner in honour of the royal guests on the following day. The Bhutanese royal family is expected to bid adieu to Assam and return to Bhutan on November 5, concluding their memorable first state visit to Assam.
Earlier on November 1, in recognition of the esteemed visit, Assam’s state cabinet approved the reservation of five seats in the state’s medical colleges for Bhutanese students, exemplifying the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
