Bhutan dedicates Buddhist stupa to PM Modi
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju described the dedication of Stupa 76 as a huge honour for India.
Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck dedicated a sacred Buddhist stupa to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, according to reports from ANI and The Times of India. The gesture recognises the Prime Minister's role in strengthening the friendship between the two nations.
The dedication of Stupa 76 occurred during a ceremony in Gelephu Mindfulness City to mark the raising and consecration of 108 stupas. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju represented India at the event and expressed gratitude to the Bhutanese King on behalf of the Prime Minister.
Rijiju, who is visiting Bhutan from October 31 to November 2, stated on X that the dedication reflects the Prime Minister's commitment to the bilateral relationship. He joined the ceremony on the occasion of Lhabab Duchen, which included the blowing of Dungchens.
The 108 stupas, known as Jangchub Chortens, were erected by volunteers along an 11.7 kilometre stretch of the Aie (Mau) River. Each structure stands 15 metres tall and is separated by 108 metres.
Earlier on Sunday, Rijiju met Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay in Gelephu. The leaders held discussions regarding the India-Bhutan partnership and the potential of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.