In a momentous event that underscores Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, His Majesty the King officiated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Gelephu Choeten (Salhang Tendrel) yesterday. This new stupa is set to become a pivotal spiritual and cultural centerpiece within the burgeoning Gelephu Mindfulness City.
The auspicious ceremony was led by the Dorji Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang, reflecting the profound religious significance of the project. The Gelephu Choeten, a Royal Project, is meticulously designed to span 108 meters in both length and width, rising to a height of 45 meters. Situated on 108 acres of pristine land in Dawathang, Chhuzagang, the structure draws architectural inspiration from the revered Jarong Khashor stupa—the original monument believed to be akin to Kathmandu’s Boudhanath stupa. This connection to Guru Padmasambhava enhances the choeten’s spiritual prominence, making it a sacred gathering place for buddhas and bodhisattvas from all directions, as revered in Buddhist scriptures.
Construction of the choeten will engage local masons and artisans, utilizing stone as the primary material to honor and maintain traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship. The project is spearheaded by KaJa Design Associates, ensuring that the architectural integrity and cultural essence of Bhutan are intricately woven into every stone laid.
In addition to the inauguration of the choeten, His Majesty the King also participated in the installation of Sachu Bumter for two significant initiatives within Gelephu. The first project, the Gelephu Dzong located in Phulari, Samtenling, draws inspiration from the historic Rinpung Dzong. Designed to become an iconic structure within the Mindfulness City, the new dzong will embody Bhutan’s illustrious cultural and architectural legacy.
The second project unveiled by His Majesty is the establishment of the Gelephu School in the town’s core. This day school will cater to students from Pre-primary through Class VI, offering the Bhutan Baccalaureate curriculum accredited by the Druk Gyalpo’s Institute. Funded through Foreign Direct Investment, the school aims to provide high-quality education while fostering the country’s educational standards.
During his visit, His Majesty also held an audience with representatives of the local community, emphasizing the importance of these projects in enhancing the spiritual, cultural, and educational landscape of Gelephu. His engagement with community leaders highlighted the King’s dedication to fostering development that respects and integrates Bhutanese traditions.
The inauguration of the Gelephu Choeten and the announcement of these key projects mark a significant step forward in the realization of Gelephu Mindfulness City. As construction progresses, the new stupa and accompanying structures are expected to attract pilgrims, tourists, and scholars, further cementing Gelephu’s status as a center of mindfulness and cultural preservation in Bhutan.
