Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him not just a political leader but a “spiritual master” and his “elder brother.” Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal in Thimphu, Tobgay said PM Modi’s presence at the upcoming Global Peace Prayer Festival is deeply significant, symbolising India and Bhutan’s enduring friendship and shared spiritual connection.
The week-long Global Peace Prayer Festival, held under the royal patronage of Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, coincides with the 70th birthday celebrations of the 4th King of Bhutan. PM Modi is expected to visit Bhutan on November 11, joining the celebrations and inaugurating the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a major India-assisted initiative.
“Prime Minister Modi is not just a political leader; he is a spiritual master and my elder brother. His presence will bless this gathering of spiritual energy,” PM Tobgay said.
🌏 India-Bhutan Relations: A Blend of Diplomacy and Spirituality
PM Tobgay emphasised that the Global Peace Prayer Festival is a collaborative effort between India and Bhutan, supported by the Indian Embassy in Thimphu and the Government of India.
“This festival is a collaboration between the governments of India and Bhutan. India has generously supported us in making this global event possible,” Tobgay said.
He added that Bhutan is deeply grateful to India for sending sacred relics of Lord Buddha, which he described as a “gift from Prime Minister Modi to the people of Bhutan and worshippers worldwide.”
“This shows we are on the same page not only politically and developmentally, but also spiritually,” Tobgay said.
🚄 Rail Connectivity and the Gelephu Mindfulness City
Discussing the proposed India-Bhutan railway project, PM Tobgay said the new link will “cement the relationship” between the two nations and play a crucial role in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) — a visionary urban project spearheaded by Bhutan’s King.
The GMC aims to be the world’s first regenerative, values-based city, combining Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) principles with modern innovation.
“Gelephu will be a gateway of investment — a safe haven for Indian and global investors,” Tobgay explained. “India’s support for this project, under PM Modi’s leadership, is unconditional and deeply valued.”
The PM further highlighted that the railway connectivity would be directly linked to Gelephu, making transport of people and goods “cheaper and more efficient.”
💬 Spiritual Harmony and Global Peace
Speaking about the Global Peace Prayer Festival, Tobgay said it is inspired by Bhutan’s centuries-old spiritual tradition of conducting prayers for peace and well-being.
“This is the Royal Vision of our Monarch — to remind the world that without peace, there can be no happiness,” he said. “Monks and spiritual masters from across the globe have gathered to offer prayers for global harmony.”
He noted that the event has drawn participants from Vajrayana, Mahayana, and Theravada Buddhist traditions, as well as Hindu spiritual masters, symbolising unity in diversity.
“We’re not passing on any particular message to the world. Our only mission is to offer prayers for global peace,” Tobgay concluded.
🔋 Key Outcomes of PM Modi’s Bhutan Visit
- Inauguration of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project
- Relaunch of the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I Project
- Progress on India-Bhutan Railway Connectivity
- Strengthening spiritual and cultural ties through the Global Peace Prayer Festival
Bhutan’s growing partnership with India continues to blend economic collaboration, cultural kinship, and spiritual alignment, reinforcing what PM Tobgay described as a “family-like bond between two great nations.”
