By Ravi Shankar

Thimpu, Nov 7 (ANI): World renowned choreographer and dancer Astad Deboo’’s troupe on Friday performed at the Chang Lime Thang National Stadium in Thimpu at a ceremony to greet Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk on his coronation as the fifth king of Bhutan.

The troupe performed to the beats of over 30 Manipuri traditional drummers, as part of the two-day celebrations.

Deboos was the only troupe from India that had been given the opportunity to perform at the grand occasion, which he termed as historic.

Over 20, 000 Bhutanese men and women, in their traditional fineries, were present on the occasion to cheer the new King.

The day-long event witnessed over 18 items, which depicted the rich Bhutanese culture as part of the coronation and centenary celebration.

During the event, Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk addressed the public.

Bhutanese Foreign Secretary Yeshey Dorji described the Kings message as a solemn vow to serve the people and called upon the youths to contribute to nation building.

Dorji further said the occasion was the most significant event in the nation’’s history and that monarchy would strengthen the democatisation of Bhutan.

President Pratibha Patil, United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi along with her family and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, who are in Thimpu for the occasion, also witnessed the impressive cultural and entertainment programme organized by the Bhutanese Government. (ANI)