The Royal Bhutan Temple in Rajgir has become the spiritual heart of an international gathering as the three-day Moenlam Chhenmo prayer ceremony entered its second day. Commencing on September 6, the event is dedicated to the well-being of all sentient beings and has drawn over 1,000 devotees from Bhutan, India, Vietnam, and Nepal.
Presiding over the sacred proceedings is His Holiness the Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s highest spiritual authority, whose presence has imbued the ceremony with deep reverence. In a notable act of compassion, His Holiness ordered rest for 350 cart horses in Rajgir, compensating their owners — a gesture reminiscent of a similar initiative in 2018.
Organized by the Central Monastic Body in collaboration with Bhutan’s Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development, the event has also received the active support of Bhutanese students from Nalanda University, who are volunteering their services throughout the ceremony.
Marking a milestone for the tradition, His Holiness launched a new, user-friendly Moenlam Chhenmo Prayer Book and declared the Global Peace Prayer to be an annual event. To ensure its continuity, a seed fund of Nu 1.1 million has been established. The state government of Bihar has pledged its support, underscoring Rajgir’s significance as a sacred site, home to revered landmarks such as Vulture’s Peak.
Adding to the occasion’s ceremonial highlights, His Holiness conferred an honorary award upon Khenpo Sonam Bumdhen, recognizing his distinguished service to the Dharma.
With its blend of spiritual devotion, acts of kindness, and cultural exchange, the Moenlam Chhenmo in Rajgir stands as a testament to the enduring power of compassion and the aspiration for global peace.
