Bhutan’s Global Peace Festival Inspires Hope and Healing
The Global Peace Prayer Festival in Thimphu, envisioned by His Majesty The King, brought together over 150 Buddhist masters and thousands of devotees in a powerful spiritual gathering for global peace and compassion.
From 4th November, the Changlimithang ground in Thimphu was transformed into a vast sanctuary of peace and devotion as the Global Peace Prayer Festival (GPPF) unfolded. Conceived by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the festival stood as Bhutan’s heartfelt contribution to a world longing for harmony.
Coming at a time when humanity had been scarred by wars, social divides, and natural calamities, the event carried a message of hope that transcended boundaries.
His Majesty The King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Her Majesty Queen Jetsun, and members of the Royal Family graced the opening. His Holiness the Je Khenpo presided over the opening prayers, as an unprecedented number of devotees—many arriving as early as 3:00 a.m.—gathered for Bhutan’s first assembly of eminent global Buddhist leaders at this scale.
The main prayer ground reached full capacity, with the crowd overflowing into the adjoining football stadium.
People from all parts of the country, along with international visitors representing nearly every sect and tradition of Buddhism, gathered in Thimphu for the prayers. As a deeply Buddhist nation, this breadth of participation held special meaning for Bhutan. Simultaneous prayers were also conducted at Kuenselphodrang, where the Central Monastic Body commenced the sacred Jabshi Gyap rituals for peace and well-being.
The Global Peace Prayer united Buddhist leaders and devotees in aspiration prayers for global peace and happiness, hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan in partnership with the Central Monastic Body.
A Vision of Compassion and Healing
The GPPF represented His Majesty’s profound compassion and vision for a peaceful world. It was a collective act of spiritual solidarity—Bhutan’s prayers extended beyond its borders, embracing all beings. As global crises deepened, the festival reminded participants that the universal wish for peace unites humanity beyond race, faith, or geography.
A Gathering of Great Masters
What made the event truly historic was the coming together of over 150 eminent Buddhist masters, lamas, and scholars representing the diverse schools of Buddhism. Tens of thousands of devotees, both Bhutanese and international, joined in what became one of the most significant spiritual gatherings the country had ever witnessed. The days were filled with collective prayers, mantra recitations, and teachings, creating an atmosphere of deep serenity and devotion.
Empowerment and Rituals for Harmony
Following the public blessings, His Holiness the Je Khenpo presided over a three-day Kalachakra empowerment from 12th to 14th November, offering devotees a rare and powerful spiritual experience. Meanwhile, at Kuenselphodrang, the Central Monastic Body conducted Jabzhi Dhoechog—a sacred ritual involving 400 offerings aimed at cleansing negative karma, purifying body, speech, and mind, and inviting balance into the world.
In times of uncertainty, these ancient practices served as gentle yet profound reminders of the enduring power of faith.
Meticulous Planning for Thousands
The organisers ensured that every aspect of the festival was planned with care and compassion. Changlimithang could host up to 20,000 devotees, while additional spaces were prepared to accommodate more participants. Medical support stations, sanitation facilities, and dedicated emergency services—including a toll-free helpline (1307)—were made readily available.
Transportation hubs, as well as special provisions for the elderly and differently-abled, reflected the thoughtful foresight behind this grand event.
A Celebration Beyond Prayers
Across Thimphu, the spirit of the festival extended into various cultural and educational events—from tshechu performances and displays of traditional medicine to exhibitions showcasing Bhutanese arts and crafts. The festival concluded on a deeply symbolic note with the celebration of the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, whose reign epitomised wisdom, compassion, and the essence of Gross National Happiness.
Bhutan’s Message to the World
For Bhutan, peace has never been a distant dream but a daily practice rooted in compassion and respect. Guided by His Majesty’s vision, the nation once again showed that harmony begins with the human heart. The Global Peace Prayer Festival did not set out to solve the world’s problems—but it offered something purer and more powerful: a sincere prayer for peace and the reminder that hope, when shared, becomes healing.
