21st February 2025

In a profound display of devotion and reverence, the Chithuen Phendhey Association, alongside 337 devoted participants, led a sacred Chagbum (100,000 prostration) offering in honor of His Majesty The King’s 45th birth anniversary. The spiritual ceremony was conducted simultaneously at Kuenselphodrang in Thimphu, where 200 participants gathered, and at the revered Machen Lhakhang in Punakha Dzong, where 137 participants joined in. This extraordinary event served as a heartfelt tribute to His Majesty’s enduring leadership, well-being, and prosperity.

The sacred ceremony commenced at 7:00 AM with an invocation of prayers, preliminary teachings, and the formal initiation of the Chagbum. In a deeply moving moment, participants recited the Gyelpoi Zhabten, a solemn prayer dedicated to His Majesty’s longevity and good health. This was followed by a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony and the offering of a thousand butter lamps, signifying collective aspirations for His Majesty’s continued blessings upon the nation. The rigorous prostrations commenced at 9:00 AM and continued until 3:00 PM, culminating in the Tshokhor ritual, a sacred feast offering.

The spiritual proceedings were led by the esteemed Venerable Tsugla Lopen at Kuenselphodrang, while the Venerable Lam of Machen Lhakhang presided over the ceremony in Punakha, ensuring the sanctity and depth of the occasion. While the Chagbum offering has been an annual event since its inception in 2016, this year marked a historic milestone as it was conducted in Punakha Dzongkhag for the first time, further enriching its spiritual and national significance.

This sacred offering stood as a testament to the unwavering faith, unity, and gratitude of the Bhutanese people towards their beloved King. It reinforced the Chithuen Phendhey Association’s deep-rooted commitment to fostering national harmony, spiritual well-being, and the collective prayers for His Majesty’s enduring reign.

The Chithuen Phendhey Association extends its deepest gratitude to the Dzongkhag administration, Zhung Dratshang, and the people of Punakha for their wholehearted participation and unwavering support. Their dedication and collective spirit played a pivotal role in the success of this auspicious event, further strengthening the sense of unity and devotion shared by the people of Bhutan.

As Bhutan continues to flourish under His Majesty’s benevolent leadership, such sacred tributes serve as a reminder of the nation’s enduring faith and deep-seated reverence for the visionary King who guides the country with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of his people.

Passang Wangmo a youth participant said that being a part of this sacred ceremony has been a deeply humbling experience. “As a young Bhutanese, I felt an immense sense of unity and purpose, knowing that our prayers and devotion contribute to the well- being of our beloved King and the nation.”

Resounding the same sentiments Kinzang Tobgay an adult participants remarked that this event was a powerful reminder of our shared values and spiritual traditions. “The opportunity to participate in the Chagbum offering allowed me to express my deepest gratitude for His Majesty’s leadership and reinforced my commitment to serving our community.”