Stupa Dedicated to PM Modi Unveiled in Bhutans Gelefu Mindfulness City
A stupa honoring PM Modi was unveiled in Bhutan, symbolizing the deep ties between India and Bhutan, as expressed by Kiren Rijiju.
Thimphu, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : Central Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed gratitude to King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during a ceremony in Thimphu on November 2. A sacred stupa dedicated to Prime Minister Narendra Modi was unveiled in the ‘Gelefu Mindfulness City,’ marking a significant gesture of respect.
Rijiju highlighted Modi’s continuous support for the Gelefu Mindfulness City project, stating that the stupa was a tribute to this commitment. On November 1, he represented the Indian government at the construction and consecration ceremony of 108 stupas, led by the Bhutanese monarch. This event is seen as a symbol of the deep cultural, spiritual, and friendly ties between India and Bhutan.
In a post on social media platform X, Rijiju noted, “It is not common to dedicate a sacred stupa to an individual. This act is considered highly virtuous, auspicious, and spiritually significant. In Buddhism, stupas are not just monuments; they symbolize the enlightened mind of the Buddha.”
Rijiju expressed his fortune at being part of this sacred occasion in Bhutan, which coincided with the celebration of ‘Lhabab Duchen.’ The ceremony featured the traditional dungchen, a long religious musical instrument, marking the construction and consecration of the 108 stupas.
According to the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the project was envisioned by the King of Bhutan, who also guided its implementation. Thousands of volunteers erected 108 stupas in a single day, each standing 15 meters tall and spaced 108 meters apart. These stupas are situated along the banks of the ‘I (Mau) River’ in a 11.7-kilometer area near the Assam border.
The project aims to establish Gelefu Mindfulness City as a major center for Vajrayana Buddhism, while also showcasing Bhutan’s culture, traditions, and values.
During his visit to Bhutan from October 31 to November 2, Rijiju met with Wangchuck and held discussions with Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Shering Tobgay. Both parties appreciated the growing cooperation in various sectors, including special friendship, development collaboration, trade, energy, investment, connectivity, and cultural relations between India and Bhutan.
Rijiju reaffirmed India’s support for the Gelefu Mindfulness City project, emphasizing its potential to play a crucial role in the development of both Bhutan and neighboring regions of India.
