Historic Visit: Bhutan’s King Takes Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh 2025
Kolkata, February 4, 2025: His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan embarked on a landmark visit to India at the special invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. The visit, marked by religious observances and diplomatic engagements, underscores the enduring and historic relationship between India and Bhutan.
A Grand Welcome in Lucknow
On February 3, His Majesty arrived in Lucknow, where he was received with full state honors at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended a ceremonial welcome, accompanied by senior officials including Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, and DGP Prashant Kumar.
The King was then escorted to Raj Bhavan, where he was hosted by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. During his stay, he also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting Bhutan’s reverence for India’s legacy of peace and non-violence.
A Sacred Pilgrimage at Maha Kumbh 2025
On February 4, His Majesty, along with CM Yogi Adityanath, traveled to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual gathering. The King visited the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—where he took a holy dip and performed ‘Arghya’ to the Sun God. Dressed in a traditional saffron kurta and pyjama, he followed the Hindu rituals under the guidance of revered saints.
Following the sacred bath, His Majesty visited the Akshayavat and Bade Hanuman Temple, both significant spiritual sites, before exploring the Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre. This center showcases the history and significance of the Kumbh Mela through digital exhibits, highlighting the integration of tradition and technology.
Diplomatic Significance and Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Beyond the spiritual experience, His Majesty’s visit also held diplomatic importance. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) acknowledged the visit as a reflection of the “unique and enduring friendship between India and Bhutan, characterized by trust, understanding, and cooperation.”
The visit follows a series of recent high-level engagements between the two nations. In December 2024, the Bhutanese King had visited New Delhi for strategic discussions, while in March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Bhutan’s highest civilian honor, the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo.’
In the evening, Governor Anandiben Patel hosted a special banquet in Lucknow in honor of the Bhutanese monarch, attended by CM Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries. Discussions at the event focused on regional security, trade, and cultural exchanges, further reinforcing bilateral cooperation.
Maha Kumbh 2025: A Global Spiritual Gathering
Maha Kumbh 2025 has already seen record participation, with over 12.5 million devotees taking a holy dip on Basant Panchami alone. As of February 4, more than 37.5 crore devotees have attended the festival since its commencement on January 13.
Prominent figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and international celebrities like Coldplay’s Chris Martin, have also participated in the event. The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented extensive security measures to ensure the safety of pilgrims and dignitaries.
A Testament to Cultural and Diplomatic Bonds
His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s participation in Maha Kumbh 2025 stands as a historic reaffirmation of India-Bhutan friendship. His visit not only honored India’s rich spiritual heritage but also strengthened bilateral ties through meaningful diplomatic interactions.
As the Maha Kumbh progresses toward its grand conclusion on February 26, 2025, it continues to serve as a beacon of faith, tradition, and unity, reinforcing India’s position as a global center for spirituality and cultural diplomacy.
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