The Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple was inaugurated on September 4, 2025, in Rajgir, Bihar, by Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and India’s Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. This event highlights the spiritual bond between India and Bhutan while strengthening Rajgir’s role as an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Rajgir: A Historic Buddhist Pilgrimage Site
Located in Nalanda district of Bihar, Rajgir holds immense importance in Buddhist history:
- Lord Buddha spent several years meditating and teaching here.
- The First Buddhist Council was held in Rajgir after Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana.
- It continues to be a major Buddhist pilgrimage destination for national and international followers.
Importance of the Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple
The inauguration of this temple adds new cultural and spiritual value to Rajgir:
- Enhances Rajgir’s significance as a global Buddhist hub.
- Represents Bhutanese spiritual architecture and heritage in India.
- Strengthens India-Bhutan ties through Buddhism.
India-Bhutan Spiritual and Cultural Bond
The event was marked with traditional Bhutanese Buddhist rituals, attended by representatives, monks, and officials from both nations. Highlights include:
- Presence of Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
- Focus on shared Buddhist values and religious diplomacy.
- A boost to Buddhist tourism in Bihar and regional cultural exchanges.
Statements by Leaders
- Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay emphasized that the temple stands as a reminder of mutual respect and shared spiritual traditions between India and Bhutan.
- Union Minister Kiren Rijiju highlighted the role of both countries in promoting peace, harmony, and Buddhist heritage.
Significance of Rajgir in Buddhist Tourism
With the addition of the Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple, Rajgir will attract more pilgrims and tourists. It contributes to:
- Boosting spiritual tourism in Bihar.
- Highlighting India’s deep ties with Southeast Asian Buddhist nations.
- Promoting regional connectivity through cultural exchanges.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- The Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple was inaugurated in Rajgir, Bihar on September 4, 2025.
- Inaugurated by Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.
- Rajgir is historically linked to Buddha’s life and the First Buddhist Council.
- The event symbolizes India-Bhutan friendship and promotes Buddhist tourism.
