In a remarkable display of community effort, volunteers in Gelephu, Bhutan, completed the construction of 108 stupas in a single day. The stupas, integral to the city’s design, were erected as part of the Mindfulness City project, a vision championed by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The initiative, which blends ecological sustainability with the well‑being of residents, has attracted both local and international support.
The city’s layout, conceived by the king and brought to life by Danish architects, emphasizes green spaces, renewable energy, and public amenities that prioritize happiness over profit. The rapid construction of the stupas demonstrates the strong volunteer spirit that underpins the project.
Local officials noted that the 108 stupas symbolize completeness and spiritual balance, aligning with Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The volunteers, many of whom are residents of Gelephu, worked in shifts to ensure the project met its ambitious deadline.
King Wangchuck’s vision for the Mindfulness City has already attracted attention from environmentalists and urban planners worldwide. The city aims to become a model for sustainable development, showcasing how economic growth can coexist with ecological stewardship and social well‑being.
Source: Religion News Service
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