Karmapa’s message on the 70th birthday of the 4th King of Bhutan

November 10, 2025

Thaye Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, shares a message on the occasion of the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan.

A transcript of the message follows.

Dear Dharma friends,

On November 11, the Kingdom of Bhutan will celebrate the seventieth birthday of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

Our Karma Kagyu lineage has always enjoyed immense benevolence and unwavering support from all the Kings of Bhutan, from the very first Druk Gyalpo, Ugyen Wangchuck, to His Majesty the Fifth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

I am infinitely grateful for the immense kindness shown to me by His Majesty the Fourth King, as well as for his great devotion to my predecessors, especially His Holiness the 16th Karmapa, and to my late root teacher, His Holiness the 14th Kunzig Shamar Rinpoche.

On the occasion of the seventieth birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King, I would like to ask all my dear Dharma friends to offer their wishes for his longevity, as his precious presence benefits the spiritual well-being and meritorious prosperity of the people of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

With prayers

Thaye Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa