Bhutan’s ambitious Project 108 has entered a significant new phase as preparations begin for the sacred relics that will be placed inside the 108 Jangchub Chortens planned for Gelephu Mindfulness City. The project, announced by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Wangchuck in February this year, aims to construct 108 chortens in a single day on November 1, coinciding with the descending day of Lord Buddha and the Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty The King.
Following ground-breaking ceremonies conducted on June 16 by senior monks of the Zhung Dratshang, attention has now turned to preparing the zung, the sacred inner relics regarded as the spiritual heart of every Buddhist stupa. The work is being carried out at Sarpang Dzong, where 20 Zung Lopons from rabdeys across the country are hand-rolling sacred scriptures and mantras in accordance with centuries-old Buddhist traditions.
According to Laytshog Lopon Sangay Dorji, the zung contains relics representing the body, speech, and mind of enlightened masters, making it more important than the outer structure itself. A key component is the Sokshing, the central wooden pole that serves as the spiritual spine of each stupa.
Public participation remains strong, with more than 30,000 volunteers registered and donations approaching Nu. 850 million domestically, alongside US$8.5 million from international supporters. As preparations continue, Project 108 is emerging as one of Bhutan’s most significant modern expressions of faith, cultural heritage, and national unity.