Flag of Bhutan

The national flag of Bhutan, known in Dzongkha as the Druk gyal Khadar (meaning "Dragon Kingdom Flag"), is a striking and profoundly meaningful emblem that encapsulates the nation's unique identity, its rich cultural heritage, and its deep spiritual connection to Buddhism. Unlike many flags born from violent revolution or colonial independence, Bhutan's flag evolved over decades, reflecting its gradual modernization while preserving its ancient traditions and values. It features a majestic white dragon (Druk) diagonally across a field divided into yellow and orange triangles, a design that is instantly recognizable and speaks volumes about this Himalayan kingdom.

Design and Dimensions

The flag of Bhutan is divided diagonally from the lower hoist to the upper fly. The upper triangle is yellow, and the lower triangle is orange. Superimposed centrally and facing away from the hoist is a large, white dragon (the Druk), clutching jewels in its claws.

The official ratio of the flag's width to its length is 2:3. This proportion ensures the proper display of the dragon and the balance of the colored fields.

Symbolism of the Colors and Elements

Every element of the Bhutanese flag is imbued with profound spiritual, cultural, and political significance:

• Yellow Half: The yellow (or saffron) upper part of the flag symbolizes the civil tradition of the monarchy and the authority of the Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King). It represents the secular power and prosperity of the kingdom, embodying the king's role in governing the country and ensuring the welfare of its people. It signifies the king's commitment to righteous rule and the well-being of the nation.

• Orange Half: The orange lower part represents the spiritual tradition of Buddhism, particularly the Drukpa Kagyu school, which is the dominant state religion. It symbolizes the spiritual power of the kingdom, protecting and nurturing the Buddhist dharma. This color signifies the importance of religious institutions in Bhutanese society and their role in upholding moral and ethical values.

• The Druk (Dragon): The white dragon (Druk) itself is the central and most iconic symbol. Bhutan is known as Druk Yul (Land of the Thunder Dragon), and the Druk is the national symbol.

  • Purity and Loyalty: The white color of the dragon signifies the purity of thought and deed of the Bhutanese people and their unwavering loyalty to the kingdom.

  • Power and Sovereignty: The dragon's fearsome yet benevolent appearance symbolizes the power and sovereignty of the independent state of Bhutan. It represents the protection of the kingdom from external threats.

  • Jewels in Claws: The jewels (Norbu) clutched in the Druk's claws symbolize the wealth and prosperity of Bhutan, signifying the security and abundance of the kingdom. They also represent the fulfillment of the wishes of the people and the nation.

  • Roaring Mouth: The Druk's roaring mouth symbolizes the strength of the deities protecting Bhutan and the commitment of the Druk Gyalpo to defend the sovereignty of the nation.

History of Creation and Adoption

The flag of Bhutan has a relatively short but fascinating history of evolution, reflecting the country's unique path to self-determination and national identity.

• Early Flags and Origins (19th-early 20th Century): Before the mid-20th century, there was no single, consistently used national flag. Early flags associated with Bhutan often featured a dragon on a plain background, but variations were common.

• First Modern Version (1949): The first modern version of the flag was designed by Mayum Choying Wangmo Dorji in 1949 at the request of the then-Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Wangchuck. This initial flag was a square banner featuring a Druk on a bicolored background, though the colors and dragon design differed slightly from the current one. It was first displayed at the signing of the Indo-Bhutan Treaty in 1949.

• Evolution and Refinements (1956-1972):

  • In 1956, a revised version was introduced for the visit of the third Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to India. This version had a white Druk with its body facing the hoist and its head facing the fly, still on a square flag.

  • Over the next few years, further refinements were made. The square shape was changed to the now standard 2:3 ratio, matching the flag of India, as a goodwill gesture.

  • The most significant changes occurred in 1968 and 1969, when the design of the dragon was altered, and the dragon was officially positioned to face away from the hoist (towards the fly), symbolizing the dragon's readiness to protect the nation and look towards the future.

  • The current official design was largely finalized by Dasho Paljor Dorji in 1972, under the guidance of the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Specific dimensions and color codes were established to ensure consistency.

• Official Adoption (1969/1972): While continuous refinements occurred, the core elements and the 2:3 ratio were largely established by 1969. The design was formally codified and adopted by the National Assembly in 1972, making it the official national flag of Bhutan.

Significance for the Inhabitants

For the people of Bhutan, the national flag is far more than just a symbol; it is a sacred emblem that deeply resonates with their identity, history, and spiritual beliefs.

• National Identity and Sovereignty: The flag is a powerful source of national pride and identity, symbolizing Bhutan's long history of independence and its unique cultural heritage. It represents their sovereignty and self-reliance in a rapidly changing world.

• Cultural and Spiritual Connection: The colors and the Druk evoke a deep cultural and spiritual connection to their Buddhist faith and the monarchy. It reminds them of the traditional values that underpin their society.

• Protection and Prosperity: The presence of the Druk, the Thunder Dragon, signifies the protection of the kingdom by divine forces and assures the people of prosperity and happiness, aligning with Bhutan's philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

• Unity and Loyalty: Flying the flag signifies unity among the diverse Bhutanese population and their unwavering loyalty to the Druk Gyalpo and the nation.

• Historical Continuity: The flag's evolution reflects the continuity of Bhutanese history, showcasing its ability to adapt to modernity while preserving its core traditions.

Interesting Facts

• One of the Few Flags with a Dragon: Bhutan's flag is one of only two national flags in the world that feature a dragon, the other being that of Wales (though the Welsh dragon is red). This makes Bhutan's flag distinct and memorable.

• Druk Yul - Land of the Thunder Dragon: The country itself is known as Druk Yul in Dzongkha, meaning "Land of the Thunder Dragon." The Druk on the flag directly represents this national identity. The name comes from the belief that the thunder heard in the mountains is the roar of dragons.

• Dragon's Orientation: The dragon on the flag faces away from the flagpole (towards the fly), which is traditionally interpreted as the dragon looking towards the future and guarding the nation.

• Historical Absence of a Formal Flag: For much of its history, Bhutan did not have a single, codified national flag, reflecting its isolated nature. The modern flag is a relatively recent development in its long history.

• Influence of Indian Flag Ratio: The adoption of the 2:3 ratio for the flag was influenced by the flag of India, a gesture of friendship and diplomatic alignment.

• Role of Queen Mother and Prince: The initial design was created by the Queen Mother, Mayum Choying Wangmo Dorji, and later refinements were guided by the then-Prince (later King) Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and executed by Dasho Paljor Dorji. This highlights the deep involvement of the royal family in national symbols.

• No Half-Masting: It is a tradition in Bhutan that the national flag is never flown at half-mast, even during times of national mourning. This reflects a belief in the perpetual good fortune and strength of the kingdom under the protection of the Druk.

• Prominence of Buddhism: The orange half of the flag prominently displays the importance of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutanese society and governance, distinguishing it from many other nations.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.