Bhutan's popular King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck today tied the nuptial knot with his childhood sweetheart and India-educated commoner Jetsun Pema in a traditional Buddhist ceremony at a stunning fortress in this historical city, 71 km from capital Thimphu.
Amid chanting of hymns by red-robe Buddhist monks and clanging of drums by Bhutanese, the 31-year-old dashing Wangchuck placed the crown on the head of 21-year-old Pema, whom he met when he was 17, as the Chief Abot (head of the monks) of Bhutan Je Khenpo led the proceedings.
Pema, who wore a yellow jacket and a skirt according to the traditions, was proclaimed the 'Queen of the Kingdom of Bhutan' as the King bestowed the crown on her after a series of ceremonies that was attended by 300 guests, including Indian Ambassador to Bhutan Pavan K Varma and West Bengal Governor M K Narayanan, and members of the Royal Family.
Wearing a raven crown, the King stood with a smile on his chuckle as Pema prostrated herself before him thrice according to the traditions and was served with a liquid that according to belief is for longivity of the couple.
Outside the stunning 17th century fortress, located between two rivers Fochu (Father River) and Mochu (Mother River), thousands of Bhutanese, including children and women, thronged the ground near the monastic fortress to catch a glimpse of their King and the Queen.
The people, including nomads and villagers who live in remotest parts of the country, started assembling at the ground as early as 5 AM (local time) braving intense cold conditions, even as majority of the 7 lakh population glued to their television sets to watch the wedding ceremony live.
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