The two-week-long Kathri began in Paro on Monday, drawing around 15,000 devotees from across Bhutan to receive empowerment from His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Among those attending was Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck. Devotees arrived at the venue in Paro town early in the morning, with participants travelling from nearby communities as well as distant parts of the country. Some devotees returned to receive a second empowerment, while others undertook long journeys, including crossing mountains, to attend the Kathri. For many participants, the gathering provides an opportunity to receive teachings and spiritual instructions directly from the Je Khenpo. The teachings focus on Buddhist principles including impermanence, karma and the importance of practising Dharma in daily life. Devotees described the event as a meaningful opportunity to deepen their spiritual practice and receive blessings in person. Yeshi, a devotee from Paro, said she had been unable to travel to Thimphu when the Kathri was held there, but decided to attend after learning that the Je Khenpo would conduct the event in Paro. She expressed gratitude to the Je Khenpo for taking the time to oversee the Kathri for devotees. Other participants also appreciated the arrangements made for the gathering. Tandin from Chhukha said the organisers had made the sitting areas comfortable and expressed hope that devotees would be able to receive the Kathri with devotion. The favourable weather also added to the comfort of those attending the opening day. For devotees from remote communities, attending the Kathri required considerable travel and effort. Phub Lhamo, who described herself as a highlander, said she and others crossed the mountains after hearing that the Je Khenpo would be giving the Kathri in Paro. She said her prayer was for the Je Khenpo to enjoy a long and healthy life and for everyone to receive the Kathri well. The gathering reflects the importance of religious teachings and spiritual traditions in Bhutanese society, bringing together people from different regions for a shared religious experience. The large turnout on the opening day highlights the interest among devotees in receiving empowerment and teachings from the Je Khenpo. Organisers have arranged facilities to accommodate participants throughout the event. The Kathri will continue for the next two weeks, during which devotees are expected to keep arriving in Paro to receive the empowerment. The programme will provide opportunities for participants to attend teachings, seek blessings and engage in religious practice.
