The coordinated spiritual effort, which commenced on March 2, 2026, is unfolding simultaneously at 20 major regional dzongs, monastic colleges (Shedras), and meditation centers across the country.



Prayers for a World in Turmoil

The primary focus of the ongoing rituals is the urgent call for global peace. In a direct response to ongoing hostilities abroad—particularly the conflicts in the Middle East—the monastic body is leading a concentrated effort to pacify violence and restore harmony worldwide.

The ceremonies, which began on the second day of the month, also hold a special significance for the Bhutanese diaspora. Dedicated prayers are being chanted for the safety and well-being of Bhutanese citizens living overseas, particularly those residing in or near conflict-affected zones.

Today, March 4, marks a particularly auspicious moment in the Buddhist calendar. Falling on the 15th day of the First Lunar Month — known as the "Miraculous Month" — the morning saw His Eminence the Laytshog Lopen preside over special concluding rituals at the base of the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu, blessing the culmination of this phase of global prayers.


Blessing the Vision of Gelephu

Beyond global concerns, the spiritual drive is deeply rooted in national development. A parallel "National Kurim" has been actively underway to invoke blessings for His Majesty the King’s visionary Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).



In a unique display of devotion and commitment, the monastic community has moved beyond the confines of traditional chanting. Hundreds of monks recently concluded a round of prayers for the mega-project by trading their ritual prayer beads for sickles and shovels, performing voluntary physical labor at the GMC site to physically demonstrate their support for the King’s vision.

The Central Monastic Body has announced that this is just the beginning, with a significantly larger assembly planned for later this year. Another round of rituals involving over 5,000 members of the Sangha is scheduled to take place to continue generating merit for the project’s success.


Averting the Omens of the Fire Male Horse

According to Bhutanese astrology, the current year — the Year of the Fire Male Horse — carries warnings of increased risks, including fire-related disasters and potential social friction. The Grand Kurim rituals currently underway are therefore also designed to mitigate these threats.

The ceremonies aim to cleanse "bad luck" for individuals born under specific signs that are considered vulnerable this year, such as the Dragon, Rat, or Monkey. Furthermore, the monks are praying for environmental balance, seeking timely rainfall and protection against natural calamities to ensure the safety and prosperity of the nation.


Understanding the Kurim

For those unfamiliar with the tradition, a Kurim is a specialized ritual performed by monks to clear away obstacles, heal sickness, or ward off negative energy. While smaller Kurims are a common part of daily life in Bhutanese homes, a "Grand Kurim" represents a state-level event of the highest order, intended to shield the entire nation — and in this current phase, the entire world — from collective suffering.