The Bhutanese Leading the way.
On 1st November 2026, history was made in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) as 108 Jangchub Chortens were simultaneously consecrated in under nine hours. The monumental feat earned the People of Bhutan an official Guinness World Record certificate, celebrating both spiritual devotion and extraordinary national unity.
Close to 200,000 attendees, including foreign dignitaries, guests, and tourists, gathered to witness the grand spectacle.
A Massive Community Effort
The record-breaking achievement was made possible through the collective efforts of more than 9,500 volunteers and organizers who worked across the stupa sites and viewing areas. Despite having less than nine months to prepare, teams coordinated seamlessly across multiple sectors.
Members of the Zhung Dratshang spent months meticulously preparing the Zung and Nangten (sacred relics) for all 108 stupas. Simultaneously, administrative and logistical teams managed waste management, transport, traffic control, help desks, medical points, and public facilities, while ensuring uninterrupted water, power, and internet connectivity.
His Majesty’s Address to the Nation
Following the consecration, His Majesty The King addressed the gathering, expressing deep gratitude to every participant, volunteer, and religious leader involved.
“To raise 108 stupas in a matter of hours is a remarkable accomplishment. But the true fruit of those blessings, those prayers, and that labor is seen in us, the Bhutanese people,” His Majesty said. “In our values and our virtues, in our loyalty, and in the joy we take in service. In the compassion we show one another, and the love we hold for this nation. People from every walk of life and every generation, coming together of their own will, to make a difference for Bhutan and our future.”
His Majesty added, “That is the Bhutanese spirit. That, in my view, is the greatest accomplishment of this day, and something we should all hold with great pride. If we can hold hands and work together like today, then there is no obstacle we cannot face.”
Spiritual Devotion and Community Reflection
Beyond the physical construction, the project was anchored in deep spiritual devotion. The consecration was supported by spiritual empowerments bestowed by His Holiness the Je Khenpo, alongside eminent lamas and religious figures. Throughout the process, the collective chants of mani by the public reverberated across the grounds. Over 340 million prayers were offered during the raising of the chortens on the Yoeja platform, contributing to a total exceeding 750 million prayers offered nationwide.
Describing the historic nature of the gathering, GMC Governor Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering noted the historic scale of the event saying that the event will go down in history, and that it is a moment of pride and joy for the nation.
Yonten Jamtsho, a monk serving on the Zung installation team, shared his gratitude: “We are truly happy and feel blessed beyond explanation. Through the prayers of His Majesty and the people, the entire process was completed with zero casualties or safety issues. It was a deeply momentous day for all of us.”
Dorji, a fellow participant on the Zung team, reflected on the historical parallel: “Throughout history, figures such as King Ashoka and King Songtsen Gampo undertook remarkable feats for the propagation of Buddhism. We are fortunate to witness such a monumental event in our own lifetimes.”
Immediately following the Tashi Rabney ceremony, attendees crossed the Mau Chu to offer prayers and circumambulate the newly consecrated chortens up close.
“The chortens have been constructed so beautifully, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be here,” said Sonam, an attendee. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers and continue to pray for His Majesty’s long life.”
International Praise and Recognition
Messages of appreciation arrived from around the globe to mark the occasion. As a gesture of appreciation for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support toward Bhutan and His Majesty’s vision for GMC, His Majesty The King dedicated Chorten No. 76 in his honor.
Acknowledging the dedication, Prime Minister Modi shared on social media: “Deeply touched by the special gesture of warmth and generosity of His Majesty the King and the people of Bhutan. I accept this with deep gratitude on behalf of the people of India. The Jangchub Chorten shall remain an enduring symbol of our shared spiritual and civilisational heritage and the special bonds of friendship between our people.”
International film star Jet Li, who attended as a volunteer, also expressed his appreciation to Their Majesties. “We’re humbled and honored to have been invited to volunteer on this historic build. We hope it brings joy and benefit to many. The work that went into this feat is truly inspiring. Our deepest thanks to Their Majesties the King and Queen, our team at Stupa 20, and everyone who made it possible,” he posted.
Highlighting the unique spirit of the event, Yee Ean Pang, Co-CEO of GMC, remarked: “I have traveled to many places around the world, but I have never witnessed such selflessness, community spirit, and devotion toward a monarch. It is this very spirit that will drive GMC to success.”
Looking Ahead
On 5th November 2026, His Majesty The King granted a Royal Tokha to honor and thank all volunteers and organization teams for their dedication.
As Gelephu Mindfulness City continues to develop as a model harmonizing spirituality, nature, and economic growth, His Majesty emphasized that this milestone is only the beginning. “Now that the project is complete, we must think of what we are going to do in the next six months and twelve months starting right now,” His Majesty urged.
