Bhutan King Dedicates Buddhist Stupa to Narendra Modi

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan led a royal initiative on November 1, 2026, to construct 108 Buddhist stupas, known as Jangchub Chortens, in just nine hours. Approximately 40,000 volunteers erected the 15-metre tall structures along the Mau Chhu River between 3 a.m. and 12 noon. The project used steel and improvised materials to establish a spiritual foundation for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned global economic hub and center of Vajrayana Buddhism.

During the ceremony, held on the occasion of Lhabab Duchen, King Wangchuck dedicated Stupa Number 76 to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The King noted that the number corresponds to Modi's age and serves as a symbol of appreciation for India's support of the city's vision.

Indian Union Minister Kiren Rijiju represented India at the event and conveyed Prime Minister Modi's gratitude to the King. During a visit to Bhutan from October 31 to November 2, Rijiju also met with Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay to discuss the bilateral partnership and the potential of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.