Volunteers Weave a Legacy in Gelephu Mindfulness City
TIL BDR GHALLEY Gelephu
Amid the humid plains of Gelephu, the air was heavy with the scent of earth and sweat, mingled with laughter and determination. The fields echoed with the rhythmic sounds of shovels and sickles, punctuated by cheerful songs and laughter. As the third round of volunteer Zhabtog (community service) commenced thousands of Bhutanese—young and old, city dwellers and villagers, DeSuups, Gyalsups, and Pelsubs—gathered to shape not just the land, but a noble vision: the Mindfulness City (GMC), a dream personally guided by His Majesty the King.
“It feels incredibly uplifting and humbling to contribute to His Majesty’s visionary dream for Gelephu Mindfulness City,” said Ganga Ram Ghalley from Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC). “This project is not just about building a city, but about shaping Bhutan’s future with wisdom, compassion, and innovation. Serving under His Majesty’s vision makes me feel truly blessed as a Bhutanese, and it inspires me every day to give my best for our nation’s future.”
From 7-10 October, over 5,600 volunteers came together for the third round of Zhabtog community service initiative—to clear land, saw grass, and beautify parks across multiple sites of the Mindfulness City. Their hands carried shovels and rakes; their hearts carried devotion, unity, and pride.
“This journey has changed the way I see community, purpose, and my own abilities,” said Ghana Shyam Ghalley a private employee. “Every task, big or small, has taught me something new about myself and how I can contribute meaningfully to society. It’s incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that the work we do today—whether planting trees, organizing spaces, or engaging with the community—will positively impact future generations fills me with pride and responsibility. I feel like I’m part of something much bigger than myself.”
For many, GMC became a classroom of compassion, humility, and silent service. “Working in the Mindfulness City project has deepened my understanding of what true service to the nation means,” Ganga Ram said. “It is not only about duty, but about devotion—from the heart. Being part of His Majesty’s noble vision has shown me that service is about contributing silently for the greater good. It has inspired me to serve with even more love, responsibility, and pride for our country and our people.”
The volunteers came from every corner of Bhutan and beyond: local communities, government agencies, CSOs, state-owned enterprises, religious institutions, private sector employees, international organizations, and embassies.
“And then, witnessing His Majesty and the Royal Family working under the same scorching sun, shoulder to shoulder with volunteers, was beyond inspiring,” said Ganga Ram Ghalley. “It was not just leadership it was a living example of selfless service. That moment changed something within me. It made me understand that service to the nation is not about position or power, but about heart, unity, and loyalty.”
“Even the elderly, with prayer beads in hand, joined the work, their slow but steady movements echoing decades of devotion to the nation. Students and volunteers, including those with speech and hearing impairments, joined alongside local residents, laughing, chatting, and supporting one another. The unity and devotion I witnessed truly touched my heart. The field became a living mosaic of generations united by a single purpose,” he added.
Karma Wangdi, a youth volunteer, described the energy on site: “I would tell all our youth that serving the nation is an experience like no other. Every morning, as we gather at the site and start our work—whether planting trees, building paths, or cleaning spaces—I feel the energy and unity of everyone around me. It reminds me that even small efforts, when combined with others, can create something extraordinary. I hope more Bhutanese join in, because this is how we truly build our country together.”
Leadership, volunteers realized, is found in small acts as much as in large ones. “Being here has been eye-opening,” Karma Wangdi said. “I realized leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about listening, helping others, and motivating everyone to give their best. Responsibility comes in small moments: making sure a tool is safe, finishing a task properly. And working for a national dream? It feels bigger than any one person. When I look around and see everyone contributing, I feel proud to be part of something that will last for generations.”
The practical work was demanding. Dago Pelmo from Bhutan Board Products Limited (BBPL) shared, “We got bush clearing at Wetland Park near Moukhola. One of the main challenges we faced was the thick growth of weeds and thorny bushes, which made it difficult and tiring to work. The ground was also uneven and muddy in some areas. However, our team worked together with strong teamwork and encouragement. We divided the work equally, helped one another, and took short breaks to stay energized. With cooperation and determination, we were able to complete the task successfully.”
Dago Pelmo also highlighted the spirit of unity that defined the volunteer effort. “Everyone worked together with respect and friendship, no matter where we came from. We shared ideas, supported each other, and worked toward one common goal—to keep the Wetland Park clean and beautiful. This experience showed how unity and cooperation can make any task easier.”
For many volunteers, GMC became more than a service project—it became a legacy. Ghan Shyam Ghalley reflected, “It’s empowering. I feel that my efforts are not just temporary contributions but part of a legacy that will inspire and benefit generations. Applying my knowledge in real ways gives me a sense of purpose and confidence, knowing that what I do today will be remembered and built upon in the future.”
As dusk fell over Gelephu, volunteers returned to their camps tired but fulfilled. The soil-stained hands, sweat-drenched shirts, and muddy boots told stories of service. Their faces carried the quiet pride of ordinary Bhutanese doing something extraordinary. Many may not live to see the full city rise, but they are proud to lay its foundation with their own hands.
“This project has taught us the value of unity, dedication, and hard work,” Ghan Shyam Ghalley said. “We feel proud knowing that our small contribution is part of Your Majesty’s greater dream for our nation.”
“Working here has been humbling and inspiring. It has deepened my understanding of service and nation-building, and every small effort feels like a step toward fulfilling Your Majesty’s vision. Serving alongside everyone has shown us the power of teamwork and strengthened our love for the country.” Dago Pelmo said,
In Gelephu, the Mindfulness City is more than concrete and gardens—it is a reflection of Bhutanese hearts, woven together in devotion, teamwork, and a shared dream. With each tree planted and every path cleared, the nation moves closer to a future imagined by His Majesty the King, realized by its people, and cherished by all.
“Your Majesty, serving in this project has been deeply moving. From shared laughter to the tired but fulfilled smiles at the end of the day, I feel connected to a purpose greater than myself and proud to contribute to building our nation.” Karma Wangdi said.
