𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋- 𝐅𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡, 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐤𝐡𝐚

In a small yet proud nation like Bhutan, where our uniqueness is rooted deeply in our culture, language plays an indispensable role in maintaining our national identity. Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language, is not just a mode of communication but a vital symbol of who we are as a people, reflecting our history, values, and independence. In a world increasingly dominated by foreign influences, it is crucial that every Bhutanese speaks and writes Dzongkha, ensuring that this integral part of our heritage does not fade away.

Today’s youth are growing up in an era where they are exposed to global cultures from an early age. From as young as two years old, children are learning foreign languages, particularly English, through social media, cartoons, and digital content. While English is undeniably important in today’s interconnected world, it should not overshadow our native tongue. Yet, in many homes, there is a growing trend where parents take immense pride in their children’s fluency in English, sometimes at the expense of their proficiency in Dzongkha. This shift in priorities is not just a matter of language acquisition, but a reflection of how we, as a nation, view our own cultural heritage.

The reality is that when we neglect to teach our children Dzongkha, we risk losing not only a language but a significant part of our identity. Language is the thread that binds us to our past, our traditions, and each other. It is the vehicle through which we pass down our stories, our values, and our shared experiences. Just as in countries like Japan, where the Japanese language is at the heart of their cultural pride, or France, where the French language is fiercely protected, Bhutan must continue to nurture and preserve Dzongkha as a cornerstone of our identity.

For Bhutan, a country that values Gross National Happiness over material wealth, maintaining Dzongkha is not merely about speaking words. It is about safeguarding the values and way of life that define us. The stories, songs, and proverbs passed down through generations are all carried within our language. When we allow foreign languages to overshadow Dzongkha, we lose the richness of our culture and the deep connections that bind us as a society.

This responsibility, however, does not solely lie with the government or educational institutions. It begins in the home. Parents must lead by example, creating an environment where Dzongkha is spoken, celebrated, and taught with love and pride. Instead of seeing Dzongkha as a language of the past, we must recognize it as a living, breathing part of our present and future. It is in the hands of every Bhutanese parent, teacher, and citizen to ensure that our national language thrives, not just as a tool for communication but as a powerful reflection of our nation’s spirit.

In a rapidly changing world, where globalization is a double-edged sword, it is essential to hold on to what makes us who we are. Dzongkha is more than just a language; it is the heart of Bhutan. While we may pride ourselves on our fluency in global languages, we must ask ourselves—have we become foreign in our own? Let us not forget that our national language is not just a means of conversation—it is a symbol of our unity, our pride, and our future. As we move forward, we must commit to preserving and strengthening Dzongkha, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of our national life for generations to come.

Guardians of Dzongkha: Protecting Bhutan’s Heart