The marriage of Bhutan’s fifth monarch King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, 31, was solemnized today with his childhood sweet heart and India-educated Jetsun Pema, 21, as per the Buddhist traditions in Punakha, the country’s old capital.

The people of the Kingdom of Bhutan erupted in joy as the reform-oriented dynamic young king tied the nuptial knot to Pema whom he met during his 17th year.

The marriage took place at the majestic monastery-fortress, the Palace of Great Happiness and both the bride and bride groom were dressed in traditional Bhutanese attire for their great occasion.

For the royal wedding, the day began early with prayers by Bhutan’s Chief Abbot around 4 am. The bride and bridegroom and their relations arrived in separate processions around 8.30 a.m. for the marriage rituals.

As part of the ceremonies, King Jigme ascended the Golden Throne, and wore the Raven Crown. The bride prostrated three times in front of the king and then offered him the Golden Bumpa to signify her devotion and formalize her status as the new Queen. All these rituals took place in front of a large-sized golden Buddha statue.