Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, turned into a vibrant spiritual hub as thousands arrived for the Global Peace Prayer Festival. Amid the Himalayas, the event brought together devotees seeking harmony and renewal.
At the centre of the festival stood the Kalachakra empowerment ceremony, an ancient Buddhist ritual promoting balance and peace. Chorten Dorji, Secretary of the Central Monastic Body, said the ceremony led by India’s Prime Minister and Bhutan’s King held deep meaning. He explained that Kalachakra aligns physical and subtle energies, and therefore offers a path to universal harmony. Moreover, he noted that the festival made these practices accessible to global participants.
The gathering also reached a historic milestone. Nearly 270 nuns received ordination in a landmark Gelongma ceremony. This revival restored the highest vows for Buddhist women, a tradition missing for centuries.
In addition, pilgrims witnessed rare Buddha relics displayed in Bhutan for the first time. Karma from the Department of Culture said the country welcomed the relics with a grand procession. He added that thousands visited to offer prayers. Strong ties between India and Bhutan, along with support from the International Buddhist Confederation, made this possible.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence further strengthened bilateral cultural bonds. Ultimately, the festival emerged as a powerful symbol of global peace and spiritual renewal.
