Three new spiritual projects have been officially approved by His Majesty The King, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gelephu Mindfulness City. These projects are in addition to the eight that were approved earlier this year. The ceremony took place this morning in Thimphu.
The Royal Kashos or Royal edicts were formally handed over by the Secretary of Dratshang Lhentshog, Dasho Zangla Namgyel, at Changangkha Lhakhang. The ceremony was attended by members of the GMC team.
The three newly approved projects are Druk Ugyen Samye Ling, under the patronage of Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche. This project will strengthen the Buddha Dharma in keeping with Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage.
Another project, the Gelephu Maitreya Temple led by Trulku Kunga Tenzin, will serve as a spiritual landmark dedicated to Maitreya Buddha.
Tara Retreat Center established by Bhutan Tara Foundation under the patronage of Leytshog Lopen Sangay Dorji of the Central Monastic Body will provide a dedicated space for Tara practice and retreats.
These projects build upon the eight spiritual initiatives that received Royal edicts in a ceremony at Simtokha Dzong in May this year. Just as these sites represent Bhutan’s spiritual heritage, GMC’s spiritual projects continue this tradition, looking to the future.
Including two Royal Projects, the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsid Zilnon Lhakhang, and the Tabab Chorten by the Central Monastic Body, a total of 14 sacred projects are already being established in GMC.
A Buddhist University, retreat centres, and other spaces for reflection form the foundations of a vibrant spiritual hub in GMC, where mindfulness and contemplation will be part of everyday life.
Dasho Tashi Dorji, Head of Spiritual Affairs of GMC, said that as more of these approved projects get underway, they are very encouraged to see GMC’s spiritual vision already taking shape.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region is a visionary initiative of creating a world-class and vibrant economic hub in the southern plains of Bhutan, centred on mindfulness, sustainability and innovation.
Kelzang Chhophyel
