The first round of the National Kurim at the Gelephu Mindfulness City concluded today on a note of service, as hundreds of monks stepped beyond ritual offerings to take part in voluntary work at the project site.
More than 650 members of the Sangha gathered early in the morning, not in ceremonial robes for prayers alone, but wearing hats and carrying sickles, ready to offer physical labour. The programme was led by the Dorji Lopen and Tshogki Lopen, reflecting the Central Monastic Body’s collective commitment to supporting His Majesty The King’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
As the monks spread across the site, the familiar cadence of chants gave way to the sounds of coordinated work. The initiative marked a meaningful extension of the Kurim, blending spiritual devotion with practical contribution.
Speaking at the sidelines, Tshogki Lopen Sangay Khandu said the Sangha felt a strong responsibility to contribute in tangible ways. He noted that while prayers remain central to their role, offering physical service was equally important in supporting a national endeavour of such significance.
“We have seen so many people contributing their service to this project,” he said. “As members of the Sangha, we also felt it was important to do our part—not only through prayers, but through action. This is a small contribution, but one made with sincerity.”
For many monks, the opportunity carried personal meaning. Participants said they had long hoped to be directly involved in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, an initiative they described as both noble and inspiring.
Monks who travelled from different parts of the country expressed a sense of fulfilment at being able to contribute. Taking part in both the Kurim and the voluntary service, they said, deepened their connection to the project and reinforced the values of service and collective responsibility.
The Zhung Dratshang also announced that this would not be the final initiative of its kind. Another round of National Kurim is planned in the near future and is expected to involve more than 5,000 Sangha members, alongside an expanded volunteer service programme.
In a further show of support, the Zhung Dratshang and the Regional Rabdey Dratshangs have jointly donated Nu 1 million towards the construction of the Gelephu Dzong, also known as the Shambhala Dzong, within the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
The conclusion of the Kurim with hands-on service underscored a message echoed throughout the day: devotion, when paired with action, can help bring national aspirations closer to reality.
