NEW DELHI: Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has dedicated a sacred Buddhist stupa to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his contribution to strengthening friendship between the two countries. The dedication of Stupa number 76 took place during a ceremony to raise and consecrate 108 stupas in Gelephu Mindfulness City on Sunday.According to news agency ANI, Union minority affairs minister Kiren Rijiju represented India at the ceremony and expressed gratitude to Bhutan for the gesture, describing it as a “huge honour for India”. He also conveyed gratitude on behalf of Prime Minister Modi to the Bhutanese King.In a post on X, Rijiju said, “It’s a huge honour for India that very sacred stupa 76 is dedicated to Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi ji for his outstanding vision and commitment to friendship between India and Bhutan. On the auspicious occasion of Lhabab Duchen, joined the sacred ceremony in Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan, marking the raising and consecration of 108 stupas, accompanied by the blowing of Dungchens.”He further said, “Paid my respects and offered prayers in the presence of His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen, H E Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan & the people of Bhutan. A deeply meaningful spiritual occasion, reflecting Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage and the enduring bonds of friendship between our two nations.”Stupas are sacred Buddhist structures associated with the teachings and life of Gautama Buddha. Traditionally, they were built to preserve the relics of the Buddha and other revered Buddhist figures, including their ashes and remains. Over time, they became important places of worship, meditation and religious devotion.
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The 108 stupas in Bhutan are known as Jangchub Chortens, or Stupas of Enlightenment. The number 108 holds special significance in Buddhist traditions and is associated with religious practices, including the use of 108 beads in prayer malas. The structures are intended to promote peace, harmony and spiritual well-being.Rijiju is visiting Bhutan from October 31 to November 2. Earlier on Sunday, Rijiju met Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay in Gelephu. The two leaders discussed strengthening the India-Bhutan partnership and exploring the potential of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.