King Jigme Khesar and Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan have officially named their son, who was born in February, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
The King and Queen traveled to the Punakha Dzong for the ceremony where the baby was escorted in in a Chipdrel Procession. The naming ceremony was held to coincide with Zhabdrung Kuchoe which this year marks the 400th anniversary of Zhabdrung’s arrival in Bhutan.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
The King gave a speech to a crowd of about 10,000 people which included royal family members, spiritual and government leaders, and Bhutanese people who came out to see the ceremony.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
Explanation of the name, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck:
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“Jigme means fearless. It symbolizes great courage to overcome any challenge that he may confront in future as he serves our country. Namgyel means victorious in all directions and victory over all obstacles. It is a name taken from the revered Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, who enabled the Dharma to flourish in all directions as prophesied by Guru Rinpoche. Wangchuck is the name of the royal lineage and dynasty.”
Speaking about his son, the King said:
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“As I have said before, the Gyalsey is not just the prince of the King and Gyaltsuen, but a son to all the Bhutanese people. … When the time comes for Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck to serve his country, he must always place the concerns of his country above all else and serve his people justly with great love and dedication. It will be his sacred responsibility to build a harmonious and just society, and thereby, fulfill all the aspirations of his people.
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“He must live such a life as a good human being and serve his country in a manner that it will be exemplary and worthy of emulation. … My heartfelt prayers and aspirations are that during his reign, our people will be able to enjoy even greater peace, security, prosperity and happiness than they have in the past. I thank all the people of the twenty dzongkhags for your continued support, loyalty and dedication.”
[Facebook]
I love that the King of Bhutan has such love for his people and he wants to instill that in his son from such an early age.
The Royal Grandmother offered Khaddar to the baby.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
The thousands of people at the Thangzona came out to offer their wishes. The royal family walked through the crowd to meet with the people.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel with his grandfather, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. The baby has so much hair!
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
The day before the naming ceremony, April 15, the King and Queen offered prayers at the Thimphu Changangkha Lhakhang.
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
[King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Facebook]
Oh my gosh! What a beautiful post. The love that this couple has for each other, their son, and country just radiates from there pictures. Thank you so much!
I cannot find a new name in it ..he named his son after him?
Anybody can please explain that….?
Ps: how on earth i would ever know that bhutan even has a royal family…thanks to william and kate for this.
I believe Jigme is just a family name. I may be wrong.
Wangchuck is the surname of this family. When used by people of non-royal descent the name is spelled differently. A common form of the name is Wangchuk which can be used as a given name.
Example: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wangchuk_Namgyal
The reason for this is that people in Bhutan technically do not have surnames. The royal family has an exception for the purpose of their dynasty.
Jigme is just a given name.
Former king’s names: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Druk_Gyalpo
Another person who has this name is the former prime minister of Bhutan (whose “surname” is technically another given name).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jigme_Thinley
The thing I find funny is that when the country made the transition to a democracy, many people loved their king so much that they would rather have an absolute monarchy.
I have done a bit of reading on Bhutan and Bhutan Royalty which also included the background on the monastery Tiger’s Nest. The present King’s father is also named Jigme who has 4 wives all of whom are sisters and they all have their own homes as does the former King. He did alot for the country before making the decision to have his son reign. Because they seem like a close knit family probably the prior King assists with advice if requested by his son. The present King is a very intelligent man. One of his hobbies is photography and his wife is interested in art which would have given opportunities for Kate and William to discuss their commonalities (not counting sports and babies). Obviously the present king was raised with the very right things instilled. With that speech from a father they plan to continue …what lofty goals for a tiny 2 month old. I do wonder if they have nicknames or a different name since 3 have same first name. My continued fascination with this country has me doing this research out of curiosity as to the wealth of this royalty vs British royalty wealth. I couldn’t locate anything specific but they must with all of that opulence. It is a fascinating culture. Thank you that you have caused me to learn more on other royalties. This was a beautiful post and I guess too it is because of what I have read about this family…they seem to be so warm loving and willing to share so much with their people. Very touching story. It is of course not a perfect country but seem to be striving forward.
I love how they invited the people to get to know their future king… Will and Kate just hide their family away . Beautiful pics and beautiful family
Yes, I love the way they walk through the crowds with the baby so everyone can see him. What a lovely royal family they are! And I’m drooling over the beautiful material and beads on the women.
Now that was very moving IMO and just the right thing to do. Plus who doesn’t love a cute baby? lol
I was thinking the same when I read the post: in Bhutan the father talks about him being the child of the nation (v.s. “We will now take him out of your sight to raise, away from you all”); the child is named, it would appear, publicly (I am guessing the naming ceremony is comparable to a Christening), and, it would seem, is carried through the crowds who may see him close-up —- how very different here, where there is an insurmountable cordon between the royal family and the nation….
The version of royal family we have here (at any rate in the young generation), to me is privileged, aloof, removed — why would one feel kindly towards or interested in someone like that? Someone who seems to be nothing special, but expects special treatment, and keeps everyone at arm’s length.
Monarchy is a very old form of leadership. In my opinion, for it to work it needs to be carried out in a very old-fashioned way: put yourself in the service of the people, work hard, inspire, lead, don’t hide away, etc etc etc. It is hard, but that way you earn respect and the privileges seem an acceptable recompense. If you don’t do those things, you will be resented and sniped at….
You have expr expressed this very well and I totally agree. The Swedes understand too.
That just cheered my day. Thankyou. Gorgeous colours and the people must feel such inclusiveness. I showed my babies off every chance I got. Imagine the energy and love people must have felt in that ceremony.
I’ve been looking forward to this post. Although the name is not original I think it is perfect for a monarch. I love his head full of hair, I look forward to seeing future posts about this gorgeous little family. 🙂
Oh how beautiful, what an adorable baby boy.
The ceremony looks so natural.
I just love the picture of Grandfather holding baby and combing his hair, that is priceless. You can see the love in Grandpa’s eyes, nothing is staged it is completely natural.
Now that is how you do it!
KMR thank you for a terrific review.
I know, right? You can feel the love of this family in these pictures. It’s just funny how in a country and tradition where PDAs are not a norm, yet all the emotions pop up from the photos.
It’s such a contrast with BRF, especially W&K, who, despite their western culture, don’t manage to express even a fraction of all the affection shown between the Bhutanese royals and towards their precious baby.
Erm … why is it that when Queen Jetsun crotch clasps she still looks poised and confident and I don’t feel irritated looking at her but when Kate does the same, I have no words for it? I just want to strangle her!
Anyway, this woman is very beautiful and demure … something Kate Middleton has been trying to emulate and fake. Another Royal I think exudes the same is Princess Kiko of Japan. Amazingly beautiful!
And she is just 25!!!
I understand Sarah, I think it has to do with their individual poise and all over body language. I’m not thrilled that Queen Jetsun holds her hands in this position but as I’ve noted in prior posts I think it’s more of a cultural norm than a sign of insecurity and discomfort.
Both hands clasped in front is a very dignified way of standing and walking for women in most parts of Asia. In Japan, for example, there is an old saying, “Stand like a shakuyaku, sit like a botan, and walk like a lily.” (Shakuyaku and botan are both types of peonies) to express the perfect female beauty. But this requires a “perfect posture” where you stand straight as if there is a pole run from the top of your head down through your spine and then your legs.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8173cZKiNnw/Tf8NCdEiq-I/AAAAAAAAs5k/SBM6MAJ6AAY/s720/tomatsuHaruka_4124_589b_800.jpg
CP Masako for example is known for her beautiful stance:
http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/remmikki/imgs/e/b/eb81bd85.jpg
Head slightly tilted to the front is a symbol of humility instead of lack of confidence.
Kate’s is merely awkwardness and defensive stance, not knowing what to do with her hands. In addition to curling her shoulders and back which makes her looks timid.
I see nothing wrong with that it’s like putting your hands behind your back but opposite. Although Kate makes it obvious that she has no confidence.
I tried this in front of a mirror. Standing with my arms at my sides, if I clasp my hands together they end up at crotch level. I think the reason the Queen looks graceful is because she has her hands clasped together lightly. Kate always has a death grip on either her other hand or on whatever clutch bag she is carrying. The appearance is that she is pressing her hands into her crotch instead of just having them in front. Whether she actually is or not remains to be seen but the thought that she is makes it so disgusting for me. It is also why there isn’t enough hand sanitizer on the planet for me to want to shake hands with her.
Thanks, everyone for your comments! Totally agree 100%!!!
I am just super annoyed with Kate. Hahaha! No force on earth will change that.
And please don’t start with the same old ”How can you be annoyed with someone you don’t even know or met?” Well, thanks to KMR we can all know the type of woman Kate is.
Beautiful ceremony, beautiful colors. He has so much hair! The Queen is beautiful!
I know so many colors!!! I love it.
What amazing photos – difficult to chose my favourite but it would at a push be the one of the baby and his father in front of the Buddha. Her Majesty is just astounding, beautiful, composed, elegant and the material of her outfits is staggeringly beautiful. My mind boggles at the time it must have taken to weave the intricate colours and patterns.
This is such an important day, I hope Will and Kate recognise how privileged they were for their majesties to fit them in. If it were the other way around I bet Kate would be having a break and preparing her outfit and too busy to meet any visiting royals.
So nice to have something positive and beautiful to comment on, thank you KMR, I thought you would be in hibernation for a week or two like the Cambridges!!
My thoughts were the same. Kate would have been too self-absorbed to consider hosting any royal visitors before an important day. I love the emotional open heart this King has for his family and the people of Bhutan.
This country is so magical. I think many of us have been mesmerized by the beauty of this place. Between the writing and photos, KMR has brought the feeling of the place right into my home. Thank you!
I can’t help myself. I wonder when the next sighting of Kate will be and how dark her tan is upon return.
Trooping the Colour as far as I know, but I believe Will and Harry are going to the Star Wars set (BAFTA) this week – wow what another amazing holiday type day out.
Surprisingly this Friday. I wonder if she is being forced to work more after the vacation/tour didn’t make the press fall in love with her and William again?
Bet the Obamas would rather just have a fun dinner with Harry. Invictus is soon, excitement is rising, Harry and Michele will have so much to talk about. I just can’t image what stupid things Kate will say. But hey, maybe she’s bought another new dress?
What a beautiful baby and such a wonderful ceremony. The outfits are making me drool and I really love the way that they are introducing their baby to the people at this young age. I really look forward to reading more about this gorgeous family.
Thank you KMR for making my start of the week!
The pictures are just amazing.
This is a culture with profound spirituality and symbolism which manifests in a ceremony of rituals and traditions but also full of genuine emotions, meaning and sharing.
I also can’t help but admire the King’s vision for his country and the sense of service towards the people.
The King can’t take his eyes from his son – love it! And the granpa combing the hair, probably part of the ceremony but how cute!
I wonder if – had they stayed a little longer – W&K could attend. They could have gotten a lesson on how royal families respect, appreciate and connect with their people. I suppose it wasn’t part of their sightseeing schedule…
Truly, a magnificent occasion. The love the family and the public have for this darling baby is special. He has much to strive for in life, this little boy. The way his father’s words have inspired the child to lead a life of dedication and hard work for his people were just amazing.
My one problem? Ok, and here come the comments, I am sure. I would have liked to see the Queen holding her baby sometimes. She’s his mother, after all. Is that sexism in play? I’m just asking. Does the King only have the opportunity (and his father) to hold the child at such on occasion?
And, the photo of the beautiful baby having his hair brushed was so cute!!! So loving and real.
Who can imagine any such demonstrative ways being captured on film from the Cambridges. Hopefully, when they are home with their children, such moments happen, though.
I would never have known about the Bhutanese couple if not for you, KMR.
Rhiannon, did you have another race this weekend. Hope you are well and that things went well!
Hi Jenny, the Queen did carry her son during the walk to meet the people. Other than that I imagine culturally the men would have a more prominent role also the baby is an heir and the father and grandfather are/were the King.
Thanks for the info, guys. I love the Bhutanese Royals Was just wondering. After all, the broohaha over the way the Japanese women were treated in an older post, made me wonder, that’s all. I realize it was a cultural thing, but I think we criticize others for such things. I do appreciate the Bhutanese Royals very much. Just wondered. Glad to know the Queen did hold her little boy, too.
And, yes, I concur, the way the child is being groomed for his service to his people is amazing. He is a special baby and may his life always be a happy and healthy one.
There are photos of the Queen caring her child on DM.
Oh hi Jenny! Congrats for Maddie’s christening! Did she enjoy all the attention?
You realise your daughter shares the same special day with the crown prince of Bhutan, don’t you?
As for your comment, yes, it seemed like a lion king moment, a continuation from father to son. To be honest, I’ve no idea if it would be the same case had the royal couple had a girl. Bhutan is conserving its traditions but also gradually opening to the rest of the world. I understand that the process of modernisation is hard, especially if a country has to surpass some old traditions for the sake of keeping up to date. Having said that, I give kudos to the royal family in establishing a parliamentary democracy as opposed to absolute monarchy, even against the wishes of some part of the people.
Hi, Elina:
Problems with my computer again. Wrote a reply, but when I tried to post it, where did it go? So, if this is a double sort of response, I apologize.
I agree with you that the Bhutanese are remarkable in their handling of modernization vs. retaining much of their culture and customs.
Thank you for asking about Madeleine’s christening. No, I did not think about her day coinciding with the special day in Bhutan. Perhaps, it’s a lucky day and will bode well for two little ones.
We actually, enjoyed amazing spring weather and it was nice to have so many dear people with us to participate in the baptism . Maddie looked so pretty in her dress. She was very relaxed until just before the ceremony was set to start. My sister, her godmother, was holding her and I tensed when I heard my baby start to whimper. I know that sound and how quickly it can escalate to full-blown hysteria! Oh, no! was all I could think. Then, my sister, bent down and said something softly to Maddie and she relaxed! She was good through the ceremony, although at one point, the look on her face seemed to me as if she was telling the priest, “Get on with this, please. I’ve had it!”
In a previous comment, you wrote about your daughter crying and how upsetting that made you feel during her christening. I congratulate her for having the ability to express herself so beautifully. After all, we all need to do that, don’t we? She was upset. And, she let everyone know! How old is she now? I’m sure you are very proud of her!
The little party we had afterwards was very nice and it really was special that so many people we love joined us for a celebration.
Yes, Maddie got a good deal of attention and then, the fussiness went into over-drive! I’m glad the day is behind us and that there are lovely memories –and photos — to remind of just how things went that day when we think about it in the future!
Today, Mary Elizabeth and I will be continuing our work on an upcoming fundraiser for one of her clients. My mom is still here and will be watching Maddie, who is over her Diva moments and acting more like the sweet baby I have come to love and appreciate!
Jenny, well done, you made me smile. 😉
Yes, our own baby’s christening can be a roller coaster of emotions which you only realise when you have to deal with it on the day.
But at the end, it’s the happy memories of the joy and affection that you will remember, through the years to come. Glad you took lots of pictures, they never seem to be enough, especially when they grow up so fast!
My ‘baby’ is almost 11 years old now and a very independent young lady, which sometimes makes me miss the days when I was more needed!
Thank you for your kind words, God bless wee Maddie and good luck with everything you do! 🙂
Eleven! Quite the young lady, I am sure. Yet, still a little girl, at times. It’s harder, I assume when they get older. Still, sometimes, all you have to do for a baby is a tad much!
Thanks for your kind words and I send happy thoughts back your way, too. God bless you and your family. I’m sure you are well needed by your girl. It’s just harder for them to show it as they mature.
Maddie’s christening wounds so sweet. I love that your sister is her godmother. I’m glad that Maddie was calm.
Have a wonderful day and tell Mary Elizabeth hello for me.
Thanks so much, Rhiannon.
Hope you are doing well!!!!
I know M.E. will send her best to you. I have to tell her about the post concerning the little Prince of Bhutan. She’s sworn off Kate for a bit, but does want to read other entries on the blog.
She said she was just overloading on negativity toward Kate from herself and needed to pull back. She loves the hard work that KMR does, though. And, enjoys everyone who comments.
Hi Jenny
Thank you for sharing Maddie’s christening with us. I love that special little touch your sister had with Maddie during the service, that was cute and I’m sure there will be more through the years too!
🙂
Say hello to Mary Elizabeth from me too, I get very fed up with Kate too (especially over her and Tash ruining all those expensive dresses) but I find I keep coming back to see what is happening in other members of our KMR community’s lives. Tell her not to be a stranger! 😉
@Elina – there is no need to worry, no matter what Miss 11 says, you will always need your Mum – no matter what age you are!
Hi, Cathy:
Just spoke to Mary Elizabeth and she sends greetings to you, Rhiannon and Elina. Everyone else, too.
Thank you for your thoughtful words. As always, you touched my heart with your kindness.
Busy here. Hope your day was a happy one and that tomorrow will be, too.
Yay! We finally see a bit of the baby’s face! I love that they have a naming ceremony for the kid. Bhutanese royalty is so full of traditions and there’s something very awe-inspiring and profound about that.
Oh My, what wonderfull to hear about this family after the William and Kate “tour”. I loved the name and specially its meaning, “fearless”. I also loved how the couple showed the baby to people. It’s fabulous. And the DM stated that William and Kate are now “firm friends with their hosts”, refering to the Bhutanese couple. I don’t know, if William and Kate were touring in Buthan why not wait to attend the ceremony for the baby? Only a thought. Have a nice week everybody.
P.S. Yesterday I saw a video which shows Kate receiving a gift from an indian woman and I can say for sure Kate is the less spntaneous person I’ve ever seen.
The DM can push the “firm friends” angle all they want but that isn’t the image I have in my head. I picture their Majesties politely walking their guests to the door at the end of the evening. As they walk back into the house and the door closes, the Queen looks at her husband and says “Please tell me we don’t ever have to have them here again.”
Thank you so much for this beautiful post KMR!!!
Wow, the colors are spectacular and the Bhutanese people are some of the most handsome people I’ve ever seen.
From the looks of it this ceremony was extremely moving so filled with beauty, spirit and grace. How adorable is Grandpa brushing his grandson’s crowning head of hair?? I must say I was moved to read the King’s speech, the love and devotion he has for his people is so inspiring and his hopes for his son, well, I just pray they come true. I’ve always thought that the Swedes are so lucky to have Victoria as their Crown Princess and heir but I must say the Bhutanese people are just as lucky to have a royal family such as this, a family who has put the good of the people above all else.
And thank you to the King and Queen for sharing these beautiful photos with all of us. Many blessings to you and your family.
What a beautiful post! This child is so loved. The way his parents and grandparents look at him is beyond sweet. I want to just nuzzle those cheeks.
This is what a monarchy should be about. Service, dury, and respect for the people. The fact that the King wants his son to think of thwhat people before himself is amazing.
This made my morning. Thank you for this wonderful post, KMR. You have worked so hard in the last week and hope you get some rest.
I agree with you Rhiannon, this is a family with a clear aim in life. To bring their country into the 21st century and to devote their lives to the people of their country.
Beautiful country and beautiful people too!
I had known a little about Bhutan before the Kate and Will road show hit town and had heard about it from people who have climbed mountains in Bhutan. If I had the money I’d love to visit one day.
On Richard Palmer’s twitter page there is an adorable photo of the baby’s face.
https://twitter.com/royalreporter
Gorgeous little boy and I love that he seemed so calm throughout. The more I see of this King and Queen and their family, the more I want to know about them.
I love how they are so close to the people of their country and share the baby with them.
I would hope that if any kind of friendship was created that King Jigme can talk to William about his duty to his country and Queen Jetsun can talk to Kate about doing something, anything better than she already does. The necklace she gave her signifying wisdom and compassion sends a message if you ask me. I’m sure it will go right over Kate’s head and just be another pretty gift she got because she married William.
Looking forward to learning more about this family! Thank you KMR!!
Beautiful way to start the week. Lovely photos as usual. I found out about the King and Queen of Bhutan two years ago after they were featured at another royal fansite.
Queen of Bhutan has an official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/QueenJetsun/timeline?ref=page_internal
Thank you Poppy for sharing this link, the photos there are outstanding!!! I especially loved the ones of the Fourth King handing out bottled water and of the current King taking time to talk to people sitting on the ground watching the events.
The things on her Facebook page are mostly reposts of the King’s but she has some things just for her on there (for example she will have more pictures of herself).
Just beautiful and the baby is such a cutie!
This place looks either like a fairyland or paradise. I’ve never seen a place so exceptionally suffused in sumptuous pattern and colour and harmoniously so. I wonder what the rest of the country is like.
What a wonderful ceremony, rife with ancient meaning and deep roots. I wish I had been there to witness it. This is what destiny looks like.
Meanwhile, I guess the King and Queen are more than just pretty faces.
I understand Bhutan is being advertised as one of the lasts ‘Shangri-La’ in the world. When I was looking about it, it striked me as being exactly like you said, a paradise, a remote untouched place on earth. While I’m sure it’s not the easiest country to live in due to the lack of a lot of western commodities, the culture and people are unique in the way that they focus on the spiritual development rather than the economical. Hence the idea of Gross National Happiness! How cool is that, right?
It suddenly occurred to me yesterday that Bhutan is only one of a few countries that has never had a war.
It looks beautiful but the poverty is still shocking. There is a lot of controversy as they develop hydro electric schemes, damaging the environment but bringing in much needed income from India who buy the electricity. The new King is a vital part of modernising and trying to find a balance between protecting the environment and culture and pulling the poorest out of poverty.
He has a difficult task ahead of him. But he seems to be a capable leader. His father showed trust in his abilities when he abdicated in favour of his son, although being very young himself.
What a beautiful baby and family. Such warmth and love in this family. I love how the king spoke about his son. As well as the responsibility and role his son will grow into. I respect the fact that he knows that his son has duty and service to his people
Instilling this in your child/children is important whether they’re royal or not. The SRF, instills this into they’re young ones as well.
Bhutan looks like such a beautiful country. The culture, religion, and people seem to be so vibrant and rich. I’m putting Bhutan on my bucket list.
Thank you KMR for your wonderful writing.
Eleanor, I agree wholeheartedly with all you said.
How wonderful to see such fine photos of this amazing family and their countrymen.
The baby is darling and is being guided in the right direction. I reallly respect the King and his lovely wife for their service and for what they are preparing their child to do.
The photos are so beautiufl. The country is so special. The people, too.
Oh, and special hello to Rhiannon. Harry is waiting. Go, now!
Hi Mary Elizabeth! I hope your work with Jenny goes well.
I understand your view about our occasional overdose of W&K getting sometimes too much to cope. Fortunately we have other royal families and other countries to get to know through KMR.
As far as I can tell, the Bhutanese royals should be referred to as a best practice case of modern royalty. All circumstances are not the same in every country of course, there are different problems to be addressed, however the Bhutanese are instilled with the right principles and attitudes.
These principles of dedication and service to their people make them suitable leaders for their own country and the same goes with every other royal in the world, as long as they share these values.
A quick hi to you, Elina. I’m glad to be able to focus on some other aspect of Royalty while I take a hiatus from Kate.
I share your view on what makes a successful Royal. Dedication and service!
The embroidery is so pretty! Their clothing must have been custom made for this event. I just want to compare them to costumes from Chinese dramas. The details especially the sleeves are impressive.
Below are some links to some costumes to compare:
http://forums.huaren.us/uploadfile/2011-1/20111412241816145.jpg
http://i2.itc.cn/20110830/a91_4d0a3523_8a4a_40a9_b4ce_94d7c2f7d055_1.jpg
http://att.hftogo.com/forum/201109/22/0954583u1cgul1zglu31ca.jpg
http://www.qdcz.cn/uploads/allimg/141208/3-14120QH630933.jpg
Chinese acting as Mongolian:
http://mfiles.sohu.com/20110830/a91_57a58f94_4eba_ea20_a0c6_908db550a6c5_3.jpg
Hi Mri
Have you looked at the boots some of the men are wearing?
Rather cool, otherwise the men all appear to be wearing highly polished western style shoes?
Sorry to speak about Kate and William about this article about Bhutan’s Royal Family but I wanted to share this criticized article about them :
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/7083186/Taxpayers-blast-William-and-Kate-tour-of-India.html
My favorite part :
Kate and Wills need not look very far for advice from a real royal superstar — the true heir to Diana’s mantle. When he’s around, kids are high-fived and hugged, battle-weary soldiers are lovingly ribbed and teased and old ladies are kissed and fussed over.
If they could just channel a little more of Prince Harry, they would be so much more than a pair of cardboard cut-outs.
They don’t have many positive article about this tour, even if they thank the press….
I would like to say I can’t believe she said this but….”And when speaking to charity workers helping India’s street kids, who are mutilated to make money begging, she managed to utter: “Gosh, so interesting.” I feel sick to my stomach reading this.
I think that it shows her no-preparation (she would know that she visits a charity and her goal), it seems that she discovers the day she visits the charity what is the charity. She just didn’t know what to say.
@Clem and @ Lauri from Ca
It seems to me that Kate (and William???) think they can just “wing” it and don’t need any preparation before hand?
I think that’s rather vain and condescending as it leads to Kate’s stupid comments…
To say “Gosh, so interesting” when you hear about kids being maimed to they would earn more as beggars makes me sick too!
I know Kate was born into a family with Dad working and they owned their own home so she’s had a soft life but she could open her eyes and see what is happening in the world? Doesn’t she even watch tv? She must have seen some documentaries about what happens in other countries at some point in her life? Or is she that self absorbed that she hasn’t noticed?
Ouch. What an article even from the Sun, but I’m glad it was written.
The saving grace was the King of Bhutan with his gifts to everyone. Now if only William and Kate could see through all that goodness, but no. William and Kate represent deceit, suspicion, selfishness, and arrogance. One day, Prince George will have to return to Bhutan to undo that negative energy his parents brought to the region and meet the “future” King Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck.
Clem, after all of us slogging along on the “Bore Tour” with W&K, it is difficult to not compare the infamous cardboard cut out’s with the charming, dignified and heartwarming royals from Bhutan. How many of us have felt the glow of this country since seeing the photos at KMR.
Thanks for the link. It is good to read someone write the truth about this tour. IMO it was a dud of a tour and the thud was heard around the world. I just hope they heard it loud and clear though those thick walls of KP.
The wardrobe and hair suggestions in the article were much needed by Kate. Too bad Kate (the intelligent puppet master) could not manage to hire a decent team or figure it out for herself.
Wow I missed this ( don’t read The Sun) but this really says it all. I know some people like to criticise Diana, but her outward facing self was as near perfection as you can get. ( her inward facing self had real problems I know). Will (and Harry) need to stop obsessing about the press being the cause of their mother’s death, and work with the press . UK taxpayers are mostly totally disinterested, and the lack of front page photos is living proof of that. Disinterest is the worst possible position for the royal family.
It’s her Majesty’s 90th birthday this week. She is far from perfect and allowing the Cambridges to behave as they is proof of that. But overall I believe she is the very best of what a constitutional monarch can be. But after her, given a referendum would I vote to keep the monarchy? ??? Only Harry and Rhiannon if truth be known. Not Charles, not William.
I’m ready for the task!
It seems the more articles we read and the more details are disclosed about this tour, the more negative the picture gets. At least the word is out and the press is not holding back their skepticism. It feels good that we’re not alone in our criticism.
At the same time, the distinction with Harry is made more clear. I’m happy we have the solution here, in KMR, and our Rhiannon is ready for the task! 😉
Sorry, I have to add here my snark of the day; I read somewhere that a 94 year old – if I remember correctly – Indian restaurant owner was desperate to meet W&K and he actually did for some short minutes. The reporter stated that the journalists failed to interview him afterwards and that it was a pity as he was a big fan and was actually keeping real size cardboard cut outs of the couple in his store. Well, my question to this sweet man would be: was there any difference in meeting them alive? 🙂
The journalist didn’t get to interview him afterwards because Will and Kate didn’t tell them this meeting was happening. They like to control the press and this was another way they were able to. Too bad for them, it is finally biting them in the ass 🙂
“But on this tour William had made it clear he wanted “private time” with his wife on public engagements.”
Maybe next time they tour, Kensington Palace should write a letter to the public that says “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are going on a tour. There will be no media related to the tour unless they wish to release it. Remember that they are only trying to protect their children.”
Wow!!! Thanks for posting that. That article has to be one of the most honest accounts of a royal tour ever. I bet the author has more details too. So much for KP saying this tour was a success. Will and Kate need to wake up and show some personality.
The line to me that said so much was “They want to be able to take in the sites and enjoy them without being trailed by journalists.” This was a royal tour. You want to take in the sites alone, come back on your own dime! By Will saying that he confirmed that this was just a holiday to them.
And I am so glad people are printing that Kate was freshened up on the hike. If she was trying to be secretive she should have not let her team be seen. And her comments….this woman has not natural response. Everything feels staged and fake.
And I thought it was weird they never had arrival/departure photos at airports like usual (maybe due to Kate’s skirts?). But shame on them for sneaking out the back. It is not like they were being stalked and needed to escape. They were on a royal tour for pete’s sake! Despicable!!!
Btw, how long do you think until the more revealing photos of Kate’s Marilyn moment are printed? KP is probably trying to keep them hidden. When will she learn.
The picture with his grandfather is adorable.Druk Gyalpo looks so content!
Thank you KMR! This is a lovely post and a gorgeous family. Thank you for giving us inspiring royal families to learn about.
🙂 If you ever want to do a Jetsun Review, I’d be all for it. Kate is so ‘meh,’ and really gives you nothing to work with other than her clothes and hair. I’m so over her.
I just want to add my sincere condolences on your sad loss
Is it me or is the proposal story just funny. In a good way. I would like a Jetsun Review. There is no need for Jetsun to gain attention, as she does that without a word. What colourful photos of the naming ceremony. I like how they involve everyone and the way they take turns with the baby.