NATIONAL SYMBOL OF BHUTAN EP 9: NATIONAL FLAG

Greetings Travellers, 

The flag of Bhutan is unique like all others. However, it has a deeper meaning as to how it came into existence. My name is Kinga and this blog is about the national flag of Bhutan. 

The national flag of Bhutan is a symbol of the country's cultural heritage, religious beliefs, and sovereignty. It features a diagonally divided background with yellow in the upper half and orange in the lower half. At the center, a white dragon, known as the "Druk" (Thunder Dragon), stretches across the flag, symbolizing the nation of Bhutan, often referred to as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon." The dragon holds jewels in its claws, representing wealth and the protection of the people. The white color of the dragon signifies purity and loyalty, while the jewels symbolize the country's spiritual and material wealth.

The yellow half of the flag represents the secular authority of the king, who is the guardian of Bhutan's sovereignty and unity. It symbolizes the vibrant tradition of monarchy and the king's role in upholding justice and equality for the people. The orange portion of the flag represents the Buddhist spiritual tradition that is deeply embedded in Bhutanese culture. It reflects the influence of the Drukpa Kagyu and Nyingma schools of Buddhism, which are followed by the majority of Bhutanese people.

The flag was officially adopted in 1969, though its design has evolved over the years to reflect Bhutan's national identity. The positioning and design of the dragon have been standardized to ensure consistency in its representation. Today, the flag is flown on government buildings, at important national events, and during official state functions, embodying Bhutan's balance between secular leadership and religious devotion.

WELCOME TO BHUTAN!