Bhutan dedicates Stupa 76 to PM Modi, Kiren Rijiju calls it great honor

Bhutan has dedicated a special stupa to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recognition of his visionary vision and his strong commitment toward fostering enduring India-Bhutan friendship, while out of the total 108 Buddhist stupas constructed, Stupa number 76 has been graciously presented to PM Modi. This unique honor reflects the deep appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary approach, dedication, and continuous support toward the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju has termed this significant decision by Bhutan as a matter of great honor and pride for India.

Based on the visionary concept of the King of Bhutan, this comprehensive initiative known as Project 108 witnessed thousands of volunteers coming together near the Assam border. 7-kilometer radius at Gelephu Mindfulness City, these 108 Buddhist stupas, also known as Jangchub Chortens, were constructed in a single day. The remarkable dedication of thousands of volunteers completing all these sacred structures within just twenty-four hours makes this architectural feat unprecedented and truly historic.

Looking closely at the technical and structural specifications of this monumental project, each constructed stupa stands at an impressive height of 15 meters. Plus, a precise distance of 108 meters has been meticulously maintained between each stupa, ensuring a harmonious and disciplined layout across the entire landscape. The primary objective of this grand project is to establish Gelephu Mindfulness City as a premier global center for Vajrayana Buddhism while beautifully reflecting the core values, rich culture, and traditions of the people of Bhutan.

During this sacred and historic occasion, His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Tobgay, and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju representing India were present in person. All these esteemed dignitaries collectively offered prayers at Stupa number 76, praying for peace, harmony, and mutual prosperity. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bhutan while describing the gesture as an immensely proud and momentous honor for the nation of India.

Sharing his profound thoughts through a detailed social media post, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that dedicating a sacred stupa to someone is never an ordinary matter. He emphasized that it's an intensely meritorious, auspicious, and spiritually profound act. According to Buddhist traditions and beliefs, a stupa is never viewed merely as a physical monument or structure, but rather as the living physical embodiment of the enlightened mind of Lord Buddha, making this gesture deeply symbolic.

The Union Minister further extended his heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty the King of Bhutan for taking the momentous decision to dedicate Stupa 76 to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that this remarkable act highlights the deep understanding and critical role played by Prime Minister Modi in reinforcing India's unwavering commitment toward the unique, spiritual, and enduring friendship shared between the two neighboring nations of India and Bhutan.

Kiren Rijiju also shared his personal feelings of gratitude, stating that he considers himself extraordinarily fortunate to have received the opportunity to attend the sacred ceremony held in Gelephu Mindfulness City. The grand event coincided with the auspicious occasion of Lhabab Duchen, during which the formal consecration and establishment of all 108 stupas took place. Throughout the sacred religious and cultural rituals, traditional musical instruments known as Dungchen were played enthusiastically, adding profound divine resonance to the entire celebration.