A long-cherished aspiration of the people of Ura in Bumthang is finally fulfilled. After more than a decade of construction, the community’s Du-dhuel Namgyel Chorten was consecrated yesterday. His Royal Highness Gyaltshab Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and Ashi Yeatso Lhamo graced the ceremony.
Standing below Ura village, the 42-metre stupa is a symbol of the people’s gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo for His Majesty’s love, guidance and unwavering service to the nation.
The stupa is named Tenzhu Chorten Chhenmo in recognition of its significance as an offering to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.
Tshewang Jurme, Coordinator of the Tenzhu Chorten Chhenmo Construction Project, said the people of Ura offered the stupa as a token of gratitude and prayed for His Majesty’s wellbeing.
“We pray for His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s wellbeing. And today, we, the people of Ura, offer this Tenzhu Chorten as a token of gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. We believe this monument as a lasting relic representing His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s Body, Speech, and Mind.”
Tshewang Dargay, a resident of Ura Gewog, said the stupa also houses many sacred relics, made possible through the kindness of Their Majesties.
“We are happy that many sacred relics have been installed inside the stupa. This was made possible through the kindness of Their Majesties.”
The consecration ceremony was attended by dignitaries, officials and devotees from across Bumthang, who gathered to offer prayers and receive blessings. The programme also featured cultural performances and mask dances.
The completion of the stupa marks the end of a challenging construction journey spanning more than a decade.
Construction began in 2015, but the high altitude, unfavourable weather conditions and short construction season posed challenges and delayed the project. Despite these difficulties, the people of Ura remained committed to completing the stupa.
With the Tenzhu Chorten Chhenmo now complete, the community has fulfilled a long-held aspiration and made an offering rooted in devotion.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
