Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

Date of Birth: February 21, 1980

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Biography

Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the fifth and current King of Bhutan, was born on February 21, 1980, in Thimphu, Bhutan. He ascended to the throne on December 14, 2006, following the abdication of his father, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. As the Druk Gyalpo (“Dragon King”) of Bhutan, he is known for his efforts to modernize the country while preserving its rich cultural heritage and promoting Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a measure of development. Educated in Bhutan, the United States, and the United Kingdom, King Jigme Khesar has a diverse background that includes studies at the prestigious Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, and a degree in Foreign Service from the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. He also attended Magdalen College, Oxford, where he completed a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Under his leadership, Bhutan has seen significant developments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He has played a pivotal role in transitioning Bhutan to a constitutional monarchy, introducing democratic reforms, and overseeing the country’s first parliamentary elections in 2008. His reign is also marked by a focus on environmental conservation and sustainable development.

5 Interesting Facts about Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

1. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the youngest monarch in the history of Bhutan, having ascended to the throne at the age of 26.

2. He is an advocate for the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH), a philosophy that prioritizes the well-being of citizens over economic growth.

3. King Jigme Khesar is known for his approachable demeanor, often engaging with citizens directly and participating in traditional festivals and community events.

4. He married Jetsun Pema, a commoner and daughter of a pilot, in a royal wedding held on October 13, 2011. Their marriage was celebrated as a symbol of modernity and tradition blending together.

5. The King is a strong proponent of environmental conservation and has implemented policies to ensure Bhutan remains carbon-negative, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

1. “The future of our nation lies in the hands of our children. It is our duty to nurture and guide them with love and wisdom.”

2. “Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product. The ultimate objective of development should be the happiness of the people.”

3. “We must ensure that our pursuit of progress and development does not come at the cost of our cultural and environmental heritage.”

4. “Leadership is not about power or authority; it is about service and responsibility to the people.”

5. “In our small kingdom, we must resolve to work together, united in our vision for a better future for all Bhutanese.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is estimated to be around $10 million. However, it is important to note that his wealth is not personal but is tied to the royal family’s assets and the state’s resources.

Children

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema have two children: 1. Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, born on February 5, 2016. 2. Prince Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck, born on March 19, 2020.