Bhutan (Commonwealth Union)_ Bhutan created a historic moment by consecrating 108 Buddhist stupas in nine hours, setting a Guinness World Record for the most stupas consecrated in a single day. One of these sacred structures was specially dedicated to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recognition of the close friendship and longstanding partnership between Bhutan and India. The 108 Jangchub Chortens, as the stupas are traditionally known, were erected at the site of the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a major development project envisioned by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The achievement was announced by GMC Governor Dr Lotay Tshering.
The ambitious project began at 3 am. Volunteers, organised into teams of around 20 to 23 members, worked simultaneously at different locations to complete the construction within nine hours. Meanwhile, large groups of Bhutanese citizens gathered along the banks of the Mau Chu River, chanting Buddhist prayers and mantras. The date carried special religious and national significance. November 1 coincided with Lhabab Duechen, a sacred Buddhist occasion commemorating Lord Buddha’s descent from the heavenly realm of Trayastrimsa, as well as the coronation anniversary of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the dedication of the 76th stupa to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bhutan’s King, accompanied by India’s Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, unveiled a plaque marking the special dedication. The King described the gesture as a symbol of his deep appreciation for Modi’s support and India’s continued commitment to Gelephu Mindfulness City. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Indian government and people to Bhutan’s development ambitions. Explaining the significance of the project, the King said Bhutan’s strength came from its people, cultural values and faith. He emphasised that India’s support was not simply a diplomatic gesture but an important part of the country’s journey towards building a new future.
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Rijiju attended the ceremony as India’s representative and conveyed greetings from Modi. He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to its enduring relationship with Bhutan. Reacting to the honour, Modi said he was deeply touched by the King’s gesture and expressed his gratitude to the people of Bhutan. Accepting the dedication on behalf of the people of India, he described the stupa as a lasting symbol of the shared spiritual heritage, civilisational connections and friendship between the two nations. The dedication carries significance beyond its religious importance. It highlights Bhutan’s recognition of India’s role in supporting its development plans, particularly the Gelephu project.
Gelephu Mindfulness City aims to retain a balance between modern development and Bhutan’s traditional Buddhist values and cultural identity. So the 108 stupas are more than architectural landmarks. They are the spiritual foundation upon which the King hopes to build his new city. By dedicating one of them to Modi, Bhutan has used the historic religious achievement to highlight its close relationship with India, turning the world-record celebration into a meaningful expression of friendship and mutual trust.
