Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal

Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal was a key spiritual and political leader who unified Bhutan in the 17th century. Born in Tibet, he established a strong Buddhist government to bring stability and protect the region from external threats, particularly Tibetan and other neighboring influences. Serving both as a religious teacher and a national leader, he founded religious institutions and a political system that blended spiritual authority with governance. His leadership helped shape Bhutan's unique culture and identity, emphasizing Buddhist principles and national independence, which continue to influence the country today.