His Majesty the King led a solemn and deeply moving collective prayer for the victims of the recent New Delhi blast, an act that reflected Bhutan’s profound spirit of compassion, solidarity, and well-wishing towards India in its time of sorrow. Held on November 11, 2025, at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, the ceremony saw thousands of Bhutanese citizens come together in unity under the King’s leadership to offer their condolences and prayers. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during this poignant moment of shared grief and friendship, underscoring the close bonds between the two nations.
The King’s prayer was an embodiment of Bhutan’s cultural philosophy centered on Gross National Happiness—a commitment to human well-being, peace, and harmony. He prayed for strength and resilience for the people of India and for visionary leadership to help the country overcome the challenges following the tragic incident. This public gesture of empathy extended beyond politics, emphasizing the values of kindness and spiritual unity that are deeply ingrained in Bhutanese society, strongly rooted in Vajrayana Buddhism. The collective prayer highlighted Bhutan’s enduring and sincere goodwill towards India, reinforcing the special bond they share.
In a powerful response to this gesture, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty the King and the people of Bhutan. Calling the prayer a “unique gesture” of solidarity, Modi said, “I will never forget this gesture.” He praised the compassion and unity demonstrated by Bhutan in the face of tragedy, reflecting the depth of friendship between the two countries. Modi’s acknowledgment highlighted the importance of shared values and mutual support in international relations, particularly in moments of adversity. The Prime Minister’s emotional appreciation emphasized that the prayer was not only a gesture of sympathy but a lasting symbol of the warmth and brotherhood between India and Bhutan.
This event stands as a testament to the Kingdom of Bhutan’s identity as a land where happiness is intertwined with compassion and well-wishing. Bhutan’s approach to happiness transcends mere economic indicators, focusing on spiritual well-being, kindness, and community support. The King’s prayer, and the massive gathering it inspired, exemplify how Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness drives real and heartfelt actions that extend beyond its borders, fostering hope, healing, and unity. It also reaffirms the special India-Bhutan relationship, marked by trust, shared values, and a deep sense of fraternity.
In sum, the prayer led by His Majesty the King of Bhutan after the New Delhi blast was a gesture rich in symbolism and genuine emotion, one that deeply moved the Indian leadership and people alike, and showcased Bhutan’s enduring spirit of happiness and empathetic well-wishing in action. This solemn event will be remembered as a defining moment of compassion and friendship between the two Himalayan neighbors.
