The Buddhist prayer wheel, ‘Drigung Kagyu Rinchen Khorchen Khorwe Go Gek’ sets a Guinness World Record and became the largest prayer wheel.

The prayer wheel at Samten Hill, Dalat, Vietnam measures 37.22 m (122 ft 0.80 in) in height and 16.53 m (54 ft 1.99 in) in diameter. The great stupa is made of bronze, inlaid with 24k gold outside, and weighs 200 tons.

The inauguration of the prayer wheel was held on March 11 at Drikung Kagyu Samtenling, Vietnam.   Guinness World Records Adjudicator presented the official certificate to His Eminence Drubwang Sonam Jorfel Rinpoche.

While announcing the world record title, the Guinness World Records Adjudicator said that to qualify for the record, prayer wheels must be made from metal, wood, stone, leather, or coarse cotton and include Buddhist scriptures inside the wheel. It also must be able to be turned by human hand, water, or other means.

His Holiness Chetsang Rinpoche expressed deep joy and congratulated everyone on achieving the world record title. His Holiness also extended deep appreciation to His Eminence Sonam Jorfel Rinpoche for establishing the Drikung Kagyu Samtenling in Vietnam.

His Holiness said that the Samtenling will not only help in flourishing Buddhism but will also strengthen the bonds between the two countries.

Ambassador of India to Vietnam, Sandeep Arya read out the message of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and the External Affairs Minister of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his message congratulated everyone and said that such an initiative will strengthen the bond between two countries India and Vietnam.

MP Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal expressed gratitude for the endeavor of His Eminence Drupwang Sonam Jorfel Rinpoche, who made the ceremony a reality for everyone.

Highlighting the works of His Eminence, he said, “ His Eminence Jorfel Rinpoche is one among the great ‘Kagyupa’ tradition scholars as well as practitioners, also a renowned philanthropist. The prime focus of His Eminence has strengthened the religious, cultural, and spiritual ties between India and Vietnam, through many different steps undertaken by Rinpoche La. Both the nation's relationship must flourish on mutual friendship, mutual understanding, and mutual benefits as well as “continuous and secure” is the gist of Rimpoche La vision for the future.”

He appreciated His Eminence Drubwang Sonam Jorfel Rinpoche’s effort to preserve Nalanda traditions in Vietnam, and strengthen Vietnam- India cultural ties based on peace and prosperity.

The inaugural program was attended by dignitaries, guests, and people from different parts of the world.