His Holiness the Je Khenpo administered Tshewang or longevity blessings to the public in Gelephu today. Thousands of people gathered at Thubten Choekhorthang to receive the blessing.
The blessing ceremony began at around nine in the morning. The Thubten Choekhorthang ground gradually filled with devotees eager to receive the blessing.
During winter, Gelephu typically sees an influx of people, mainly seeking to escape the colder weather in the northern parts of the country or to visit the hot springs.
However, the size of the crowd today local residents by surprise.
“We usually organise gatherings like this, but I have never seen a crowd as large as today’s. I think it’s mainly due to people’s deep faith in His Holiness the Je Khenpo and the fact that many haven’t had the opportunity to receive his blessing since the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Pema Lethro, a resident.
“I’ve never seen such a large crowd. This is the biggest gathering I’ve witnessed here in Gelephu,” said Pema Gyelmo, another resident.
Karma, a resident of Gelephu said, “I’ve seen gatherings at such events before, but I’ve never seen the ground so packed. These must be Bhutanese who are deeply religious, and the timing, during the winter season, also plays a part. When it comes to His Holiness the Je Khenpo, everyone comes seeking his blessing.”
After receiving the blessing, the devotees returned home content and prayed for the opportunity to receive another blessing from His Holiness the Je Khenpo.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Sangay Chezom
