Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk on Tuesday joined the world’s biggest human gathering by taking a dip at Maha Kumbh’s Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, during a “ special visit” to India.
He was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The King is here at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Seasoned diplomats say that the Bhutan King’s gesture of coming all the way from Bhutan to attend the Maha Kumbh is something that all Indians and Hindus will deeply value forever.
About 40-45 crore people are expected to bathe in the Triveni Sangam in Maha Kumbh Mela, seeking salvation and spiritual rejuvenation.
The Maha Kumbh, which takes place once in 144 years, is ordained by a rare alignment of four planets.
The Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday that “ the visit of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan is in keeping with the regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan, an important hallmark
Dressed in a traditional Gho, a knee-length, robe-like piece of clothing that is secured with a belt at the waist, the King sat through the prayers with folded hands.
His participation in the prayers were reminiscent of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, known as the Venice of the East.
The Bhutan King also fed the birds during a boat ride at the Sangam.
On Monday, it was Yogi Adityanath who received the Bhutan King at the airport.
The King and Queen of Bhutan had earlier visited Delhi in December 2024 and in March 2024.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi was the first leader to be honoured by Bhutan with its highest civilian honour, the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo’.
Only two days back, the Ambassador of Bhutan to India, Vetsop Namgyel joined a 110-member delegation, including Heads of Mission (HoM), spouses of HoMs, and diplomats from 71 countries at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.
They were led by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margharita.
Apart from enjoying what he described as a spiritual experience, Ambassador Namgyel, longest serving Ambasador of Bhutan, said that he prayed for the everlasting friendship between India, a very close neighbour, and Bhutan.
Namgyel is also the Deputy Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
On Tuesday, over 54 lakh devotees had taken a dip at Maha Kumbh by noon.
Overall, more than 37.50 crore devotees have taken the holy bath since the mega fair began on January 13, according to the UP government. The Maha Kumbh culminates on February 26.
India’s former Ambassador to Bhutan, Ruchira Kamboj says that India has used its soft power in diplomacy very effectively.
“His Majesty came down to India especially for the Maha Kumbh all the way. This is perhaps one of the most important gathering for all Indians and Hindus. Where else would you find such numbers? I will be going to Kumbh soon- the first time. The Maha Kumbh has deep spiritual significance.”
Ambassador Kamboj who was also India’s Chief of Protocol for three years, says that the Ministry of External Affairs and the Uttar Pradesh government deserve appreciation for making arrangements to help foreign dignitaries and their spouses enjoy a smooth experience at the Maha kumbh.
“It is a tremendous logistics operation that requires huge effort, coordination, thinking and working with various stakeholders. It is a great learning experience for those who are watching India. Hats off to India for pulling this off so well.’’
She said, “Anybody in charge of protocol has to ensure that everything from start to finish has to be choreographed perfectly and meticulously. One needs to follow a multi stakeholder approach that everything right from airport arrivals to security, hospitality, hygiene and gastronomics is taken care of. ‘’’
Ambassador Kamboj who was also India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, said, “Frequent high level visits by leaders always strengthens ties.
To a question that the King of Bhutan and the Uttar Pradesh Governor discussed India Bhutan ties, she said, “There is substance to the visit. It is also an opportunity to take stock of the relations.’’
She recalled how, the International Yoga Day celebration at the United Nations Headquarters last year created a Guinness World Record for the participation of yoga enthusiasts of most nationalities. Modi ji was there.
