A remarkable three-year spiritual initiative reached its conclusion recently in Bodhgaya, as Tshedrak Gompa, widely known as the “Prostration Man,” completed an extensive saffron water offering dedicated to the success of His Majesty the King’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).
The annual ritual, held over three consecutive years, was conceived as a collective act of prayer aimed at removing obstacles and creating favorable conditions for the ambitious GMC project. Central to the observance was the traditional younchap offering, accompanied by group prayers that brought together monks, lay practitioners, and volunteers united by a shared aspiration for the city’s realization.
What began as a modest effort steadily grew in scale and participation. Each year saw an increase in the number of volunteers, resources, and supporters, reflecting growing interest and faith in the initiative. Friends and well-wishers from outside the country also lent their support, turning the offering into a truly international endeavor.
In its final year, the program reached its most expansive form. More than 30 volunteers took part, and the spiritual activities were extended to include a pilgrimage to eight sacred Buddhist sites, adding depth and significance to the concluding observance. The journey was marked by prayers and offerings at each location, reinforcing the spiritual intent behind the undertaking.
Funding for the initiative came from a variety of sources. Proceeds from the sale of prayer wheels formed a key part of the budget, supplemented by contributions from international supporters and donations mobilized through social media platforms. According to organizers, the total expenditure for the final year alone is expected to exceed Nu 2.5 million, underscoring both the scale of the effort and the level of support it attracted.
With the completion of the three-year offering, participants expressed hope that the accumulated prayers and merit would contribute meaningfully to the success of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, envisioned as a center for sustainable development grounded in spiritual and mindful living. The conclusion of the ritual marks not an end, they say, but a continuation of collective aspiration toward a project seen as vital for the nation’s future.
