7th Thimphu Moenlam Chenmo begins at Kuensel Phodrang in Bhutan
The 7th annual Thimphu Monlam Prayer Festival, led by Sangay Dorji, commenced at Kuensel Phodrang on May 18, 2024.
Overlooking Thimphu Valley, the site is marked by the imposing statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, enhancing the grandeur of this Great Prayer Ceremony.
As the Laytshog Lopen, Sangay Dorji, one of the five monastic leaders of Bhutan’s Central Monastic Body, presides over the event, which features 650 monks in continuous prayer, culminating in the Vesak or Saga Dawa festival on May 23.
This year’s ceremony has drawn more than 2,000 devotees, reflecting the deep spiritual engagement and devotion of the Bhutanese people.
The Moenlam Chenmo, a week-long prayer ceremony of the Drukpa Kagyu school, is dedicated to world peace and prosperity and includes blessing rituals for the royal family.
The tradition of Moenlam Chenmos dates back nearly a century, with the first held in 1937 at Tharpaling monastery under the patronage of Bhutan’s second king.
Since 2000, the Je Khenpo has extended the practice to all 20 dzongkhags (districts) of Bhutan, as part of efforts to modernize and standardize religious practices alongside the country’s transition to a constitutional monarchy in 2008.
In some regions, Moenlam Chenmos have a longer history, such as Chorten Kora in east Bhutan.
Sangay Dorji, who has recently overseen similar ceremonies in Punakha, continues his duties with dedication, ensuring the spiritual well-being of the nation.
This ceremony in Thimphu is a testament to Bhutan’s enduring spiritual traditions and the vibrant religious life that binds its people together.
