Context:
• Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Dr. Virendra Singh attended the World Peace Prayer Festival (Global Peace Prayer Festival – GPPF) in Thimphu, Bhutan.
• The 16-day festival (4 Nov 2025 onwards) is a global initiative for prayers for world peace & healing amid contemporary global conflicts.
Key Highlights – India–Bhutan Cultural–Spiritual Partnership / Royal Patronage / Sacred Relics
• Deep spiritual connection + enduring friendship between India & Bhutan underlined — festival reflects shared cultural–spiritual heritage of both nations.
• GPPF ceremonially inaugurated at Changlimithang Ground, Thimphu by:
– His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
– Trulku Jigme Choedra, Chief Abbot of Bhutan
• Festival organised by Royal Government of Bhutan to promote global peace, compassion & spiritual harmony.
Major Ritual Events
• Jabzhi – profound Vajrayana Buddhist ritual to cleanse negative karma & dispel destructive forces → underway till 10 November 2025.
• Kalachakra Empowerment to follow → symbolising peace & the spiritual paradise of Shambhala.