A landmark spiritual initiative envisioned by His Majesty The King reached an important milestone today as groundbreaking ceremonies were conducted for the ambitious 108 Jangchub Chortens project in Gelephu.
Senior members of the Central Monastic Body led ceremonies at three separate locations, formally commencing preparations for what is expected to become one of the most significant spiritual landmarks in the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
The Dorji Lopen presided over the Salang Tendrel, or traditional ground-blessing ceremony, at the site designated for the 108th chorten above the Zombabi Elephant Enrichment Area. Simultaneously, the Tsugla Lopen led a similar ceremony for the 92nd chorten alongside monks and lams from Tsirang Rabdey, while the Laytsho Lopen officiated at the site of the first chorten near Serzhong Bridge.
For devotees and local residents, the ceremonies carried profound spiritual significance beyond the ceremonial start of construction. According to Buddhist tradition, the Salang Tendrel seeks the blessings of local deities and establishes a sacred connection between the project and the land on which it will be built.
Khenpo Tashi Tshering explained that the rituals are intended to ensure the successful completion of the project by invoking protection, preventing misfortune and fostering long-term prosperity.
The 108 Jangchub Chortens project, initiated under the vision of His Majesty The King, is scheduled to enter a major construction phase on November 1, when all 108 structures will be raised simultaneously. Each chorten will stand approximately 15 metres high and will be positioned 108 metres apart, forming a continuous line along the Mao River.
Project authorities report strong public engagement and support. More than 80 chortens have already secured sponsorship, while contributions from individuals continue to arrive in various forms. Organisers have also registered over 30,000 volunteers interested in participating in the construction effort.
Dasho Tashi Dorji, Lead Spiritual Workstream of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA), said volunteer selection and training plans will be announced as preparations advance. He added that the installation of the sacred zung within the chortens will be overseen by the Zhung Dratshang.
Meanwhile, another crucial aspect of the project is underway at the historic Sarpang Dzong, where monks have begun preparing the sacred zung that will eventually be placed inside each chorten. Prepared according to centuries-old Buddhist traditions, these consecrated contents are regarded as the spiritual essence of the structures and are being coordinated by the Zhung Dratshang.
Although the designated sites currently remain quiet stretches of land along the Mao River, they are expected to undergo a remarkable transformation in the coming months. Once completed, the chain of 108 chortens will create a prominent spiritual corridor, serving as both a place of devotion and a defining feature of the emerging Gelephu Mindfulness City.
