It is not every day that a National Medal winner does your hair, but here in this Country, you can, because the medallist is back to his work. Nothing much has changed in him, except he has become more motivated in what he was already doing.

Today I took the opportunity to congratulate a fellow Tashigangpa and an old friend from Tashigang street football days, Mr. Ugyen Deepak, on being honoured by His Majesty the King with the prestigious National Order of Merit on the National Day. His recognition is a testament that you don’t have to hold a high position or status to be recognised, or to serve the nation.

Deepak was born in Trashigang, and spent more time there than me. Our fathers were friends. Now, he knows more of my relatives than I do – all my distant nieces and nephews. He is an institution in Trashigang, but now he is also a national figure – a role model and a teacher to many young Desuups. 

He misses being in Trashigang but says, “duty calls”. So, he is taking a short leave soon to go there to report to protector deity Gara Wangchuk, because he has been away for a long time. His wife understands “but the local deity may not. You know that!” he adds. We planned to cost-share the appeasement rituals he would conduct to our common birth deity.

Today, as we were chatting and catching up with our lives and families, and how he felt being bestowed with such an honour by the Highest Office of the land, I remembered an earlier conversation we had. 

I once asked him what was one golden piece that his father, Thakurji, gave him. Without a second thought, he replied, “My father told me whether I wanted to become an engineer or a doctor, it was my choice, but as far he was concerned, I should never abandon the scissors and the comb. Because that is what our forefathers did. That is where our yang (fortune) lies.”

He chose to honour his father’s advice despite being a brilliant student. 

The story goes that his ancestors were barbers to Gautama Buddha. Maybe that’s why his father insisted. I am sure he must be smiling down on my friend.

Joining everyone in congratulating him and wishing him a long, healthy life of service to our King and youth.

🤩🤩🤩