A Barefoot Journey to India: Vietnamese Monk Becomes an Internet Sensation

Hanoi/Bangkok – A Vietnamese Buddhist monk has embarked on a barefoot pilgrimage to India, captivating social media audiences worldwide. Thich Minh Tue, a 44-year-old monk, began his remarkable 2,700-kilometer journey in November, leaving his home country with little more than his dedication to a simple and ascetic lifestyle. His story has since gained massive attention, thanks to influencers who have brought his spiritual mission into the digital spotlight.

Hundreds of Thousands of Followers on Facebook

Thich Minh Tue’s journey has amassed him hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook, where his supporters regularly share updates about his travels. Daily video clips, posted by one of his companions, often garner up to two million views on YouTube.

Much of the fascination with Tue’s journey stems from his austere way of life. He carries only a rice cooker, which doubles as a container for collecting alms. Supporters lining the roads provide him with food and water, yet he has revealed that he consumes just one meal a day. Remarkably, most of his clothing has been salvaged from discarded items found in trash bins. He is accompanied by several like-minded companions on this spiritual expedition.

“I walk barefoot to feel the ground beneath my feet and to avoid stepping on insects and other living beings,” Tue explained to local media. “Moreover, shoes and sandals wear out faster than my feet.”

A Life with Only Three Garments

Thich Minh Tue follows a strict Buddhist practice that emphasizes extreme simplicity. Followers of this tradition are expected to own no more than three garments, rely solely on alms for sustenance, sleep outdoors, and live in harmony with nature. In keeping with these principles, Tue reportedly sleeps in a sitting position to reduce the amount of time spent resting. “If I am very tired, I lean against a tree or a wall,” he shared.

Tue’s lifestyle has won him widespread admiration in his home country, including in Vietnam’s tightly controlled society. However, his popularity has not come without challenges. In June, Vietnamese authorities intervened due to the massive crowds that gathered whenever he appeared in public. These gatherings reportedly caused traffic disruptions and raised concerns about public order. For a time, Tue retreated from public view to avoid further issues.

“Patience, Compassion, and Wisdom”

Tue’s pilgrimage to India has taken him through Laos and into Thailand, where he arrived at the end of December. His next planned stop is Myanmar, a nation in turmoil since the 2021 military coup. However, it remains uncertain whether he will be allowed to proceed, given the country’s ongoing chaos and violence.

As he continues his journey, Thich Minh Tue embodies the Buddhist values of patience, compassion, and wisdom, inspiring countless followers worldwide. His story is not just about a physical journey but also a testament to the power of simplicity, resilience, and faith in a modern, fast-paced world.