Thai PM Anutin Attends Bhutan's Project 108 Stupa Ceremony
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Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also serving as Interior Minister, traveled to Gelephu, Bhutan, with his spouse and delegation to attend the opening ceremony for Project 108 at the invitation of the Bhutanese government. He is the sole foreign leader invited to this significant event. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Bhutan's Prime Minister along with ministers of Home Affairs, Health, Foreign Affairs, and the Governor of Gelephu Special Administrative Region, reflecting the importance Bhutan places on Thailand's participation.
His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan then graced the ceremony celebrating Project 108. Long dungchen horns were sounded to mark the construction of the 108 Jangchub Chortens (stupas of enlightenment), and the Bhutanese national anthem was sung.
Project 108, initiated by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fifth King of Bhutan, aims to build and consecrate 108 stupas along the Mao Chhu River near Gelephu, within the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) area. Each stupa stands about 15 meters tall and is spaced 108 meters apart. The goal is to complete all 108 stupas simultaneously within 24 hours through the collective effort of over 40,000 volunteers.
The Thai Prime Minister's invitation underscores the close friendship and bilateral relations between Thailand and Bhutan, especially during a pivotal period for Bhutan that blends religious, cultural, and national development dimensions. It also offers Thailand insight into the Gelephu Mindfulness City concept — a new model of urban development designated as a special administrative zone that prioritizes quality of life, sustainability, nature, and citizens' happiness alongside economic growth.
The project reflects Bhutan's development philosophy emphasizing mental well-being and quality of life alongside economic progress. In Vajrayana Buddhism, stupas symbolize enlightenment and the Dharma. The number 108 holds symbolic Buddhist significance, making the collective construction of all 108 stupas within 24 hours both a religious act and a demonstration of cross-sectoral public cooperation.
The ceremony date, November 1, 2026, coincides with Lhabab Duchen, a major Vajrayana Buddhist holiday, and the coronation anniversary of Bhutan's King, adding religious and institutional significance.
Government spokesperson Ekaphap Phiaphiphat stated that the visit to Gelephu...
