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THEME: GROSS GLOBAL INSPIRATIONMarch 20 2026
Royal University of Bhutan, Thimphu, Bhutan
ABOUT THE EVENT
As the world navigates an era of disruption, transition, and transformation from environmental and climate crises to social, political, and economic fragmentation, the urgent question before us is not merely how we live, but why.
In this pivotal moment, Bhutan’s quiet yet profound contribution to global consciousness comes into sharper focus: the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). Introduced in the 1970s by His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, GNH redefined development through the lens of human and planetary well-being. It offered an ethical and holistic alternative to GDP-driven growth, influencing global discourse on sustainability, mindfulness, and inclusive progress.
Today, this vision is being reimagined and carried forward through the Royal Initiative of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a bold, future-facing embodiment of Bhutan’s values. Conceived by His Majesty The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, GMC is more than a city project. It is a living philosophy — a prototype for a new civilization that prioritizes harmony with nature, inner wellbeing, cultural depth, and compassionate innovation. In essence, it is Bhutan’s response to the question “why” — a place where development becomes a spiritual and ecological act.
Against this backdrop, TEDxThimphu 2026 is honoured to be part of this national moment of reflection and imagination. As Bhutan celebrates the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King, this TEDx event draws inspiration from his legacy while embracing the momentum of Bhutan’s evolving story — from GNH to GMC — as a beacon for humane, values-based transformation.
Theme Overview:
“Gross Global Inspiration” is more than a theme — it is a call to reimagine what truly inspires progress in the 21st century. It asks:
- What if inspiration, not competition, became the currency of global exchange?
- What if we measured our success not by the volume of output, but by the depth of impact?
- What if Bhutan’s small yet profound story could help shape the soul of a weary, searching world?
Rooted in the enduring values of GNH and animated by the visionary direction of GMC, this theme invites individuals and ideas that seek to build a more conscious, just, and compassionate world — where technology serves truth, and innovation is grounded in wisdom.
WHY BHUTAN NEEDS SUCH AN EVENT
Bhutan has long inspired the world with the philosophy of Gross National Happiness — proving that wellbeing matters more than wealth. Today, as the nation looks ahead with the Gelephu Mindfulness City, there’s a need for a platform that connects Bhutan’s values with global ideas.
TEDxThimphu 2026 is that moment. It gives Bhutanese voices a global stage, brings international thought-leaders into local conversations, and shows how a small nation can offer clarity the world urgently needs.
Event Venue: Royal University of Bhutan (RUB)
Event Venue: Royal University of Bhutan (RUB)
The Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) has always championed learning that transcends the classroom. As Bhutan’s first national university, it brings together curious, grounded individuals who are open to the world- the kind of mindset that this year's theme, 'Gross Global Inspiration', embodies.
The campus is a melting pot of ideas from Bhutan’s nine constituent colleges, creating a space where global thinking and local wisdom coexist. It is calm enough for reflection yet also buzzing with young voices ready to question, imagine and create.
By hosting TEDx Thimphu on 20 March 2026, RUB is placing this theme where it truly belongs: in an environment built to inspire, challenge and spark conversations that travel far beyond the room.
EVENT OBJECTIVE
TEDxThimphu 2026 will spotlight talks and stories that:
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Offer solutions rooted in empathy rather than exploitation, and wisdom over speed
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Bridge the local and the global, celebrating Bhutan’s unique approach while learning from the world
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Challenge mainstream development with alternative paths to happiness, meaning, and resilience
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Inspire enlightened leadership, compassionate innovation, and purposedriven progress
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Demonstrate that Bhutan, though small in size, offers a moral and spiritual clarity the world urgently needs
WHY ATTEND
Cutting-Edge Perspectives
Hear from leading thinkers and doers who challenge the status quo and offer fresh insights on urgent global and local topics.
Networking & Community
Connect with a diverse audience of innovators, entrepreneurs, students, and thought leaders. These connections often become the sparks for collaborative ventures.
Personal Transformation
Witness talks that speak directly to your own experiences and aspirations. A single moment of inspiration can lead to a lifetime of motivation.
Immersive Experience
Expect not just talks, but also interactive installations, performances, and workshops that bring “Impressions” to life in vivid, memorable ways.
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RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
Don’t miss this chance to witness ideas that will transform you—and the city you call home. Click below to register and secure your seat at TEDxThimphu 2026.
