Buddhist masters gather in Gelephu in Bhutan to witness building of 108 stupas
Associated Press ·
Buddhist masters have gathered in Gelephu, Bhutan, to witness the construction of 108 stupas in a single day. The newly erected sacred structures representing Buddha’s enlightenment anchor Gelephu Mindfulness City. Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck conceived the city as a major hub that he hopes will help the nation's ailing economy. His vision of the city is also rooted in Buddhist principles of sustainability, peace and compassion. These stupas, known as Jangchub Chortens in Vajrayana Buddhism, symbolize Buddha’s enlightenment. They were built by over 40,000 volunteers as a crowd of 200,000 visitors from around the world watched while they offered prayers and chants.