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THE NYINGMA MONLAM CHENMO
ANNUAL CONGREGATION FOR WORLD PEACE
NYINGMA –ANCIENT TRADITION OF TIBETAN BUDDHISM- AN OVER VIEW:
We, with profound respect and deep reverence, bow and take shelter at the holy lotus feet of the glorious Guru Padmasambhava, embodiment of the Buddhas of all the ten directions, past, present and future. We seek the blessings for all the beings to be his devoted disciples for their life until they attain enlightenment. As said by H.H. Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche that though there have been many great divine personalities in the sacred lands of India and Tibet, none can be compared as embodiments of compassion and blessings as emanate from Guru Padmasambhava.
The Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism is ancient. It was established in Tibet, the land of snow, by Guru Padmasambhava, Khenpo Bodhisattva and the Dharma King Trisong Deutsen, who are considered to be the Great Three and also known as the glorious Regents of Buddha Shakyamuni. In their presence the Enlightened Masters and Lotsawas (translators), who were none another than the emanations of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, established the Buddha Dharma in the traditions of the Sutrayana and Mantrayana in Tibet, which formed the well laid foundation of Nyingma Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. They caused it spread with deep roots throughout the snowy land and over all these years spread in all the nooks and corners of the world.
During this era of prolific dharmic activity of the Khen-Lop-Cho (Bodhisatva-Guru Padmasambhava- King Trisong Deutsen) the Tripitaka Sutras and the Mantrayana Tantric treatises along with their various commentaries were translated from Sanskrit into Tibetan language in entirety. This collection is considered to be one of the most valuable treasures for the humanity.
NYINGMA MONLAM CHENMO- A VISION:
Many enlightened and revered Gurus, Yogis, Tulkus, Khenpos joined together and assembled at the holy place of Bodhgaya during the first ten days of the twelfth month of the Tibetan calendar in the Year 1989 to devote at the sacred Vajrasana, Bodhi Tree and the Khen-lop-cho with monks, nuns, ngakpas, lay people and western Buddhists. It was a unique occasion in modern history of Nyingma Tradition.
The vision of Nyingma Monlam Chenmo is the result of magnificient and noble thought of and gesture of generosity by Venerable Tarthang Tulku Rinpoche.
The effect of world torn apart by warfare, tyranny, oppression and genocide- the blood-soaked testament of negatives, prejudice, greed and ignorance, which have shattered humanity, resulting in denial of their rights and defaming their values had deeply adverse impact on the Buddha Dharma in general and the living tradition of the Nyingma in particular.
Ever since 1989 Nyingma Monlam Chenmo is held at the holy place of Bodhgaya during the first ten days of the twelfth month of the Tibetan calendar every year as decided by the most revered Gurus of Nyingma Tradition. The 10th day is observed as Guru Padmasambhava day and Tsog (Prasad or Symbolic Meal) is offered with devotion to Guru Padmasambhava which witnesses the conclusion of the annual Monlam.
The 18th day of the 12th month is equally a significant day in the Nyingma tradition, which is observed as the Anniversary of the highly knowledged Longchen Rabjampa (1308-1363), one of the greatest revealers of Tantric Treatises (Tertons) in the history of the Nyingmapa. Its observance every year by Nyingma followers is being continually supported by the kind generosity of Tarthang Tulku.
Thus the annual Nyingma Monlam Chenmo held during the twelfth month of the Tibetan calender has become an auspecious occasion for the Nyingma followers to pray for the world peace and dedicate those days to the founders of their tradition viz., Bodhisatva, Guru Padmasambhava and Trisong Deutsen (Kunkhyen Longchenpa) in Bodhgaya.
The necessity to pray for World Peace was thus seen as the cause for a universal assembly which resultantly crystallized in the form of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo to engender and to cultivate a sense of inner spiritual experience amongst human being in general and Nyingma followers in particular, which is seen as an absolute necessity to strengthen human values and to keep the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, in its purest form, in perpetuity in future.
At present, the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo provides the sole occasion for members of the diverse lineages of the Nyingma Tradition to congregate. It has assumed vital significance in bringing greater understanding and co-operation among one and all. It is fervently hoped that the Monlam (ceremony for world peace) will foster closer ties and greater unity which would ensure greater harmony in the years to come.
Thus the vision of Nyingma Monlam Chenmo is to pray for World Peace in Bodhgaya to ensure the divine values propagated by our founders Khen-Lop-Cho will continue to guide and help all generations in the years to come.
BODHGAYA A DIVINE PLACE FOR NYINGMA MONLAM CHENMO
Bodhgaya is the place where the holy Vajrasana, the seat used by Lord Buddha to attain enlightenment, the Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and is the place all Buddhas of past attained enlightenment and the present and future Buddha are believed to attain enlightenment. Hence Bodhgaya is the holiest and most suited place for Nyingma Monlam Chenmo that one could think of.
Vajrasana is venerated as being the source of all the Enlightened Buddhas of the past, present and the future. This intrinsically hallowed site has been chosen by all the Buddhas of all times to be the seat of their enlightenment. This vajra seat is not subject to destruction even at the end of an eon. The Buddha Shakya Muni also attained enlightenment at Bodhgaya 2600 years ago. Its sacredness has been furthered by innumerable luminaries of Buddhism who associated and practiced at this holy place. The luminaries include Arhat Kashyapa, the regent of Lord Buddha and the seven respective Arhats and Acharya Nagarjuna along with the Six Ornaments and two Excellent Masters, the great Bodhisattvas, Manjusri, Maitreya, Vajrapani, Tara and Avalokitesvara including Vidhyadharas and Dzogchen masters such as Rigzin Garab Dorje, Vimalamitra, Padmasambhava, Vairochana as well as the eighty four Maha Siddhas. Many other luminaries and Lotsawas such as Ronzom Mahapandita, Marpa, Atisha Deepankara also were inspired to study and practice here.
We are indebted to and ever grateful to those great patrons and benefactors of the Buddha dharma, such as Dharmaraj Bimbasara, Prasenajit, Ajatashatru and Chakravarti Ashoka the great, who protected and restored this most holy Vajrasana and the holy Bodhi Tree against all kinds of man-made and natural atrocities.
Millions of devotees from all over the world are drawn to the sacred vajrasana at Bodhgaya and in particular Sri Lanka, Thailand, Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Burma-Myanmar and Nepal, where Buddhism is predominantly adopted as religion.
Living luminaries like HH the Dalai Lama, HH Sakya Trichen, Gyalwa Karmapa and Gaden Tripa have visited this sacred seat to pay reverence and have presented discourses to thousands of followers. The unique sacredness of this "Field of Merit", will make any aspiration or resolution made here, of incomparably greater strength and magnitude. It has been mentioned in the Sutras that just the intention to visit this sacred Vajra Seat releases one from innumerable obstacles and sufferings and enables one to accumulate boundless merits. Therefore it goes without saying that the effects of this huge congregation at Bodhgaya praying together for world peace would be beyond imagination. The results of these meritorious actions would directly produce the seeds of enlightenment.
Hence Bodhgaya was chosen as the venue for Nyingma Monlam Chenmo.
Participation in the Annual Nyingma Monlam Chenmo, the congregation to pray for World Peace at Bodhgaya is extremely important and worthwhile in order to inspire hope and courage in bringing about greater peace, harmony, joy and happiness in the world as well as seeking relief from all unwanted sufferings.
AVOVED OBJECTS OF MONLAM
1. To pay our reverence and dedications to Lord Buddha and the Khen-Lop-Cho i.e., Khenpo Bodhisattva, Guru Padmasambhava and Chogyal Trisong Deutsen and their esteemed lineage.
2. To pray for the longevity of the Buddha Dharma in general and in particular for the living tradition of Guru Padmasambhava to spread his teachings for the benefit of humanity all over the world.
3. To fulfill the noble wishes of HH the Dalai Lama and all the glorious masters of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and to pray for their longevity.
4. To work and to pray for the welfare of the sharanas, pacify and dispel all illnesses, diseases, negative karmas, obstacles, warfare, violence, famine and starvation, and to promote and to strengthen human values and sense of spirituality in pursuit of universal peace and harmony.
5. To work and to pray for unification of all followers of Nyngma lineage.
6. To remember and pray for all those parents, families and friends who suffered severely or lost their lives in the tragedy that befell on them.
7. To dedicate the merit accrued from the observance of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo for the benefit of all sentient beings.
8. To organize Dharma discourses, initiations, conferences directed towards attaining world peace and to inculcate the sence of peace and harmony amongst all.
9. To facilitate imparting the teachings of Lord Buddha.
10. To provide and to assist in providing food and shelter for all those who are in pursuit of peace and harmony.
The participation in Nyinma Monlam Chenmo and lending one’s helping hand in organizing it is the easiest way for for one and all to endeavor to pursue the doctrine of peace and harmony propagated by Lord Boddha. The Nyingma fraternity’s efforts in this direction furthers the cause of consolidation and perpetuity of its lineage and tradition through chanting the following most vibrant prayers in unity at the auspicious occasion of Monlam:
1. "The Arya Manjusri-nama-sanghiti" the most vibrant Tantras,
2. "The Arya-bhadracharya-pranidhanaraj" the most vibrant Aspiration prayers,
3. "The Leu Dunma” of Guru Padmasambhava,
4. "Dol-Chog" the Tara Sadhana for liberation.
CONSOLIDATION OF NYINGMA MONLAM CHENMO
The beginnings of the Monlam was heralded, in the early eighties, by HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and HH Dodrupchen Rinpoche who individually led hundreds of Nyingma monks and nuns in performing the Monlam which involved the chanting of the Arya-bhadracharya Pranidhanaraj, the most revered aspiration prayers a hundred thousand times. This led to the formal inauguration of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo in 1989 principally through the instigation, generosity and far-sighted vision of Tarthang Tulku Rinpoche. The participation of many enlightened Nyingma masters like HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, HH Penor Rinpoche, HH Minling Trichen Rinpoche, HH Chadral Sangay Dorje Rinpoche, HH Tsetul Rinpoche, HH Trulshig Rinpoche, Tarthang Tulku whose divine presence and blessings made a great impact on all the disciples.
The unity of all legendaries of the present Nyingma Tradition ultimately culminated in the formation of a charitable foundation “NYINGMAMONLAM CHENMO INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION” as a forum under which the Monlam is being organized.
HH Chadral Rinpoche desired one’s participation in Monlam to be sathvic and all participants are served vegetarian food. HH Chadral Rinpoche and Tarthang Tulku presented a discourse on the importance of the Vajra seat in the Sutryana and Vajrayana traditions.
Initially Monlam was organised by Tarthang Shedra, Kathmandu headed by Palyul Choktrul Rinpoche and Khenpo Rigzin Dorje and his fraternity. Later other Nyingma Monasteries viz., Palyul Thegchok Namdroling Monastery of HH Penor Rinpoche, Mindroling Monastery, Shechen Tennyi Thargaylinh Monastery, Dzogchen Monastery of Dzogchen Rinpoche, Palyul Chokhorling Monastery of Ringu Tulku, Simla Dorjedak Monastery, Chokling Monastery and various Nyingma Monasteries from Sikkim in India and in Bhutan and Nepal took the organizing responsibilities.
Our Major Donors towards food expenses at Monlam are:
H.H.Penor Rinpoche
Chairman,
Penor Rinpoche Charity Foundation
Namdroling Monastery, Bylakuppe and his associated centers and Disciples from Hong Kong and Phillipines
Rs.18,00,000/- for 2004 Monlam
Rs.20,00,000/- for 2006 Monlam
Rs.18,73,416/- for 2007 Monlam
H.E.Minling Khenchen Rinpoche
Mindroling Monastery
Dehradun
Rs.21,76,439/- for 2008 Monlam
Khenpo Sanggay Rangjung Nyingma Palyul Choling Monastery
Pharbing, Kathmandu
Rs.39,00,000/- for 2009 Monlam
The Nyingma Monlam Chenmo has assumed paramount importance amongst the followers of Nyingma Tradition. The Monlams in the past two decades has witnessed steep growth of number of participants, year after year, from seven to eight hundred in the initial years to over ten thousands now from different parts of India , Nepal , Bhutan and other parts of the world. The growth started posing serious logistical challenges, especially with regards to making arrangements for their accommodation. The arrangements by hiring giant-sized tents and booking local hotels in the initial years proved to be inadequate in the later years. This challenge led in establishment of Nyingma Monlam Dharmashala at Bodhgaya which is also visioned as the place for imparting advanced teachings in Nyingma Tradition in the years to come.
CONSTRUCTION OF THE NYINGMA DHARMASHALA AND LHAKHANG AT BODHGAYA
The extremely kind and generous gesture of HE Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in donating a plot of land to the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation was initiation for the commencement of the Nyingma Dharmashala Project at Bodhgaya. This gave the required impetus to the organizers to start the Project at the earliest. Considering the requirements to cater to the needs of the growing participants, additional land in the vicinity was purchased and construction work began with the laying of the foundation stone in the late 90' and the foundation was laid by HH The Dalai Lama. The Dharmashala intended to accommodate ten thousand Monlam Participants. The Dharmashala Complex has been designed to be comprised of three main blocks to accommodate the Khenpos and Tulkus in one, the Anis or Nuns in another, and the Monks in the third. At the beginning of the new millenium, with the construction already under way, Sangha members were able to be accommodated in the partially completed areas. The second and third blocks are now complete and the construction of the first block meant for the Khenpos and Tulkus is in advanced stage of completion.
The main Temple hall or Lhakhang was completed in 2008 and larger than life sized statues of Guru Padmasambhava and Buddha Shakya Muni were installed in it with the statue of Amitayu. The Lhakhang was inaugurated in the presence of HH Penor Rinpoche, HH Tsetul Rinpoche, HE Rabjam Rinpoche, HE Kathok Getse Rinpoche, HE Minling Khenchen and many other enlightened Tulkus, Khenpos and Sangha members who conducted the consecration ceremony in the most auspicious time.
For the past nineteen years the kitchen has been operating under temporary conditions in the Dharmashala Complex. A program is under way to construct a permanent kitchen (SOL-THAB) at a suitable location within the Dharmashala Complex.
Seating arrangements within the temple premises during the Puja sessions are as follows:
1. Seating at the south and west of the Main Temple is reserved for the ordained monks i.e. Gelong and Getsul.
2. Seating at the Northern side of the Temple is reserved for the Ngakpas and Gomchens.
3. Seating at the eastern side of the Temple is reserved for the ordained nuns and jomos.
Maintenance of proper spiritual and ethical discipline is encouraged and Disciplinarians (Geykos) are appointed to monitor their respective areas to ensure a environment tranquility conducive to prayer within the premises.
As devotees of the incomparable Guru Padmasambhava we owe our profound gratitude with reverence to HH Penor Rinpoche for his sense of wisdom, compassionate leadership and support to the continual growth and success of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo. His continued presence and blessings at the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo World Peace Ceremony inspires confidence and strength in us. Our profound reverence and gratitude also goes to Tarthang Tulku, our patron and principal founding father of the NMC for his untiring guidance and efforts in our endeavor to ensure continued preservation and propagation of the Nyingma tradition. We are also deeply grateful to Ladhakh Choje Tulku for his continued support in conducting the Monlam Chenmo ceremony.
The active participation and support of all Nyingma Tradition followers in all parts of the globe has made this vision of Nyingma Monlam Chenmo a reality today. All of them have felt and experienced that they are directed towards spiritual enlightenment in their own limited way, at the holy place of Bodhgaya, which we are sure will bring all happiness and prosperity to them and their families in the years to come. NMCIF recognizes their contributions in this noble cause.
NMCIF appreciates and recognizes the untiring efforts of Bhu Tsering and Cho Dinsang who took the responsibility of the completion of construction of the Dharmashala Project in all these years.
REGISTRATION OF NYINGMA MONASTERIES IN NMCIF
All prominent Nyingma Monasteries located in India , Nepal , Tibet , Bhutan , and in other parts of the world are registered with Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation (NMCIF) and are actively participating in and patronizing all of our activities. All other Nyingma Monasteries in any part of the globe, who have not hitherto registered, are eligible to be registered with The Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation, subject to the regulations.
During the past nineteen years most of the prominent Nyingma Monasteries are registered with and are officially recognized by the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation. The total number of registrations to date has crossed eleven hundred. There are still 528 applications which are pending due to incomplete information or which requires further authentication before they can be registered and recognized as the officially registered Nyingma monasteries.
HOW TO SEEK REGISTRATION:
Application should be addressed to the Head Office, NMCIF in the format given below:
To,
The Board of Trustees,
Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation,
Namdroling Nyingma Monastery,
Bylakuppe 571 104
District Mysore
Karnataka State, India.
APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION
Sl.No
Particulars Required
Information provided
1.
Name of the monastery together with a photograph.
2.
Founder, President and director of the monastery.
3.
Lineages from the Nyingma tradition which are followed, (viz. Do-Min, She-Dzog, Ka-Pal etc.)
4.
Sadhanas that are practiced on the occasions of Tsechu and Nyer-nga as well as during other significant dates in the annual calendar
5.
Number of Sangha members in the community i.e. monks, nuns, ngakpas etc.
6.
Whether or not the Gonpa runs a Shedra or Dupdra.
7.
A certificate or letter of introduction from a recognised Nyingma Rinpoche in the area to verify that the Gonpa genuinely follows the Nyingma tradition. This is of particular importance.
8.
Any other particulars
Signature of Chief of Monastery
Note:
1. Applications may be submitted from the 9th month of the Tibetan calender onwards up to the beginning of Monlam in Bodhgaya i.e., up to the First day of the 12th month of Tibetan Calendar.
2. Those who have submitted their applications before the commencement of the Monlam, are requested to enquire, during the Monlam, whether their application has been received at the Head Office, NMCIF or not.
ADMINISTRATION OF NMCIF
The Head Office of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation is located at Namdroling Monastery, Bylakuppe 571 104 in Mysore District in South India .
The Patrons of the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation include all the Great Masters and Enlightened Lineage Holders of the Nyingma tradition all over the globe. All our activities are under their guidance and with their blessings.
The day to day affairs of the Foundation are managed and administered by the Board of Trustees comprised of:
Chairman
H.H. PENOR RINPOCHE
Trustees
Ven. Khochen Rinpoche
Ven. Rigo Tulku Rinpoche
Managing Trustee
Acharya Dakpa Lama
The Board of Trustees have the assistance of a Universal Advisory Committee which periodically reviews the functions of the Foundation and helps in framing policy matters. The committee is comprised of:
Chairman
H.H. PENOR RINPOCHE
Vice Chairmen
HE Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche
HE Dzogchen Rinpoche
HE Minling Khenchen Rinpoche
General Secretary: Projects
Ven. Khochen Rinpoche
General Secretary: Fund Raising
Ven. Rigo Tulku Rinpoche
Advisors Board Members
HH Trushik Rinpoche
HH Chatral Rinpoche
HH Tsetul Rinpoche
HE Kathok Getse Rinpoche Tarthang Tulku
Ralo Rinpoche
Gyari Tulku Rinpoche
Ladakh Choje Tulku
Sogyal Rinpoche
Lachung Rinpoche
Nangzey Dorjela
Tulku Ajam
Khenpo Chowang
Khenpo Sanggay Rangjung Khenpo Tamdin
Lopon Tseten
Bhu Tsering
Cho Dinsang
Permanent Invitee
Acharya Dakpa Lama
ABSTRACT OF AUDITED ANNUALACCOUNTS FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS ENDED ON 31st MARCH, 2008 OF NMCIF:
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
For The Years Ended On
Particulars
31.3.2004
31.3.2005
31.3.2006
31.3.2007
31.3.2008
INCOME:
Donations:
Corpus
Non Corpus
Total
49,62,424
22,22,145
72,85,559
1,01,25,636
49,05,875
1,50,31,511
87,18,435
47,88,687
1,35,07,122
75,42,613
1,33,43,488
2,08,86,101
80,16,983
1,26,50,320
2,06,67,303
Interest & Other Income
21,12,174
27,46,409
34,31,298
21,64,249
48,64,480
Total Income
93,97,733
1,77,77,920
1,69,38,420
2,30,50,350
2,55,31,783
EXPENDITURE:
Food, Pooja & Offerings
41,47,481
51,42,013
57,49,481
62,84,298
64,36,489
Administrative Expenses
7,97,843
9,95,780
7,72,435
8,76,756
16,38,531
Total Expenditure
49,45,324
61,37,793
65,21,916
71,61,054
80,75,020
NET INCOME
44,52,409
1,16,40,127
1,04,16,504
1,58,89,296
1,74,56,763
BALANCE SHEET AS AT
Particulars
31.3.2004
31.3.2005
31.3.2006
31.3.2007
31.3.2008
SOURCES OF FUNDS:
Corpus Of The Trust
Opening Balance
7,58,09,206
8,02,61,435
9,19,01,562
10,23,18,066
11,82,07,362
Net Income For The Year
44,52,409
1,16,40,127
1,04,16,504
1,58,89,296
1,74,56,763
Total Sources
8,02,61,435
9,19,01,562
10,23,18,066
11,82,07,362
13,56,64,125
APPLICATION OF FUNDS
Fixed Assets:
5,92,64,337
6,20,05,209
6,86,56,780
7,58,25,510
8,51,96,058
Investments & Term Deposits
1,69,74,230
2,71,98,570
3,00,07,511
3,95,17,492
4,31,42,962
Net Receivables
11,33,491
7,45,598
13,23,498
6,88,792
34,56,307
Cash & Bank Balances
28,89,377
19,52,185
23,30,277
21,75,568
38,68,798
Total Application
8,02,61,435
9,19,01,562
10,23,18,066
11,82,07,362
13,56,64,125
HOW YOU CAN HELP US TO SERVE YOU BETTER
MEANS
MONETARY CONTRIBUTION BY YOU
Permanent Projects
By Corpus Donations Rs.50,000/- and onwards
Pooja & Flower Decoration
Rs.75,000/- For Each Day
Mass Feeding At Monlam: Lunch & Dinner
Rs.2,00,000/- Each day Each Time
Break Fast
Rs.50,000/- Each day Each Time
Tea For Monks
Rs.10,000/- Each day Each Time
Bread & Biscuits For Monks
Rs.10,000/- Each day Each Time
Light Decoration
Rs.20,000/- Each day
Any Other Manner
Voluntary Contribution of any amount
Buddham Sharam Gachchami
Dharamam Sharanam Gachchami & Sangam Sharanam Gachchami
- Location:India
News
Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche Accepts Position As Head of the Nyingma School
Written by: Mindrolling News Staff
Published on: 6 March 2010
Photo Credit: Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche
©2010 Mindrolling International, All Rights Reserved
The Buddhadharma in general and the Nyingma school in particular flourished under the leadership of Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen, the supreme head of the Nyingmas, for the benefit of countless sentient beings.
Following the parinirvana of Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen in 2008, it became the responsibility of Mindrolling to initiate the process of deciding the next head of the Nyingmas.
With this enormous responsibility, Mindrolling initiated a meeting on this matter during the 2010 Nyingma Monlam held at Bodh Gaya. At this sacred site, the International Nyingma Monlam Committee and representatives of the six main lineages of the Nyingmas met to discuss this important matter of the next Head of the Nyingma School. It was then decided that the representatives of the six main lineages and senior teachers and members of the International Nyingma Monlam would appoint a committee of six senior members who would approach four of the oldest and some of the senior-most Nyingma masters to accept the role of the Head of the Nyingma School. Seeing the enormous importance of their presence and continued activity, it was decided that they would also make the Tensum offerings and supplications of long life to all the four great masters, beginning with the oldest in age. Those masters who were approached were Kyabje Chatral Rinpoche, Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche, Kyabje Dodrub Rinpoche and Kyabje Tsetrul Rinpoche.
The six senior members appointed to hold the responsibility for this task were H.E. Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche, H.E. Gyangkhang Rinpoche, H.E. Khochhen Rinpoche, H.E. Orgyen Topgyal Rinpoche and the two representatives of the Nyingmas in the government of Tibet in Exile.
The first teacher to be approached was Kyabje Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche who is one of senior-most and oldest living Nyingma masters of the day. Kyabje Chatral Rinpoche declined the position due to health concerns.
The committee then proceeded to approach Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche. In the face of heartfelt repeated requests to Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche on behalf of the entire Nyingma School, Rinpoche graciously accepted to the great joy of everyone.
It was decided that due to the ever-increasing activities of the Nyingmas, a new position of a General Secretary would be created to assist the Head of the Nyingma School. It was the wish of Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche that this position of General Secretary be offered to His Eminence D.G. Khochhen Rinpoche, who accepted this position in the face of the command of Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche and the wishes of many Nyingma monasteries.
The Mindrolling Sangha offers prayers for the long life and increased activities of Kyabje Trulshig Rinpoche and His Eminence D.G. Khochhen Rinpoche. We pray that Tibetan Buddhism in general, and the Nyingma school in particular, grows and flourishes for the benefit of all sentient beings to the end of this kalpa
Ven. Yangthang Rinpoche
It is said that at the time of the rebirth of Tertön Dorje Dechen Lingpa, from all directions the sky in Sikkim resounded in thunder, "I am here!" Sogtrul Rinpoche, his principal student and lineage holder, was already awaiting him, as the place of his rebirth had been predicted both by His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche and by His Holiness Reting Rinpoche, the Senior Tutor to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. By the time Sogtrul Rinpoche reached him he had already declared himself to be the rebirth of the tertön from Dhomang. He had become known as Yangthang Tulku, as he is from the Yangthang clan in Sikkim.
In addition to mastering the extensive training in practices of his lineage, Yangthang Rinpoche was completely trained in the Kangyur and Tangyur, and in the works of Longchenpa. He was widely recognized for the quality and depth of his realization, the power of his attainment, and the purity of his transmissions. Rinpoche is known as a compassionate, humble, no-nonsense Dzogchen master of the Nyingma, Old School Tradition.
In 1959, when the Communist Chinese invaded Tibet, Yangthang Rinpoche fled Dhomang. He was later captured by the Chinese, and imprisoned for 22 years. He helped many fellow prisoners who could not bear the hardship to die peacefully by performing Phowa, transferring their consciousness to Pure Lands. Though he witnessed and experienced much torture, he bears no resentment to his captors, only compassion. In fact, he became a spiritual advisor to some of the guards. When people express sympathy about his imprisonment, Rinpoche says that because of Dharma, his mind was more free in prison than worldly people experience in the best of circumstances.
Following the death of Mao Tse Tung he was released. He returned to Dhomang to find his monastery completely dismantled. He then obtained permission to go to Sikkim. As a simple yogi he traveled back and forth to Nepal and Bhutan, receiving transmissions and empowerments from His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and His Holiness Dodrubchen Rinpoche.
In recent times he has come to the United States several times and also travels to Taiwan where he has many devoted students. As he is now around 80 years old, we don't know if he'll be able to return again. This is a rare and precious opportunity to receive blessings and teachings from one of the few remaining great masters of his generation.
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130 foot statue of Guru Rinpoche |
When Shakyamuni Buddha was preparing to die, his followers lamented that he had only taught the exoteric teachings of the lesser and greater vehicles (Hinayana and Mahayana) but had not taught the esoteric tantric teachings of the Vajrayana. Shakyamuni said that since he was born of a womb his current body was not suitable for introducing the tantric teachings but that he would come back in a miraculously-born form to reveal those teachings. As predicted, after 25 years he was born from a lotus in the form of Guru Padma Sambhava ("Guru Rinpoche"). Though Guru Rinpoche was a fully enlightened manifestation, he entered into and attained all of the stages of training as an example for others to follow. He not only mastered all of the teachings and attained realization and liberation, he also perfected the Vajrayana practices of skillful means which enabled him to perform miracles.
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Ven. Tulku Jurme Lhundrub Phelgay
Venerable Tulku Jurme Lhundrub Phelgay was born to Ngagtsün Rigzin Ösel Dorje of the Nubchen Sangay Yeshe lineage. He was recognized as Tulku Tsultrim Dorje by his father and the recognition was later confirmed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Venerable Tulku Jurme Lhundrub Phelgay joined the Mindrolling monastery at the age of 8 with the blessings of Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen, where he completed many of his studies and retreats. Venerable Tulku Jurme Lhundrub Phelgay received many empowerments, transmissions and instructions from many great teachers such as His Holiness Sakya Trizin, Kyabje Trulzhig Rinpoche, Kyabje Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche, His Eminence Khochhen Rinpoche, Khenchen Petse Rinpoche, Venerable Peköd Gyalsay Rinpoche and Venerable Chogtrul Dhagpo Rinpoche. Venerable Tulku Jurme Lhundrub Phelgay is currently assisting His Eminence Khochhen Rinpoche with the overseeing of the Kalimpong Ogyen Mindrol Samten Ling Monastery.
Ven. Tulku Ugyen Lhundrub
Ven. Tulku Lozang Chöphel
Venerable Tulku Lobzang Chöphel was born in 1988 and was recognized by Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche as the re-incarnation of the 11th Khachö Tulku of the Pema Yangtse Monastery in Sikkim. Venerable Tulku Lobzang Chöphel currently presides over the Pema Yangtse Monastery where he was enthroned at the age of five by His Eminence Yangthang Rinpoche. Venerable Tulku Lobzang Chöphel moved to study at the Mindrolling Monastery under the blessings of Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen and His Eminence D. G. Khochhen Rinpoche and is currently continuing his studies at the Ngagyur Nyingma College, the shedra at the Mindrolling Monastery, India. Venerable Tulku Lobzang Chöphel has received many empowerments and transmissions from many great teachers including Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen, Kyabje Dodrub Rinpoche, Kyabje Trulzhig Rinpoche, Kyabje Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche, His Eminence Khochhen Rinpoche and Minling Dordzin Tenzin Nyima.
Ven. Tulku Jurme Yeshe Dorje
Venerable Tulku Jurme Yeshe Dorje was born in 1982 and was recognized by Kyabje Dodrub Rinpoche as the re-incarnation of Ven. Dejong Lama Tsultrim Dorje. Venerable Tulku Jurme Dorje has received empowerments and transmissions from various great teachers including Kyabje Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche. Venerable Tulku Jurme Dorje joined the Mindrolling Monastery at the age of thirteen and has studied rituals and liturgies as well as completing his study of grammar, calligraphy and other subjects. After his completion of studies at the Ngagyur Nyingma College, the shedra at the continual studies, retreats and receiving transmissions. Mindrolling Monastery, Venerable Tulku Jurme Yeshe Dorje is now spending his time in continual studies, retreats and receiving transmissions.
Mindrolling in India
The Great Stupa
The great stupa in Og Min Ogyen Mindrolling Monastery in Dehradun, India, is 185 feet tall and 100 square feet in width. It is the world's largest stupa and is a magnificent example of buddhist art and architecture. The stupa is surrounded by a 2-acre landscaped garden.
On the facade of the stupa Maitreya, the future Buddha, has been beautifully painted. Descending the steps is the present Buddha, the Buddha Shakyamuni.
On the several floors inside the stupa are shrine rooms with elaborate murals excuted in the finest tradition of Tibetan Buddhist art. Sacred relics have also been placed in the stupa.
Constructed to benefit all beings and dedicated to world peace, the Great Stupa was inaugurated on 28th of October, 2002.
Ngagyur Nyingma College
Institute of Advanced Buddhist Studies
The profound teachings of the Buddha say that ultimate happiness is achieved through the unsurpassable Enlightenment. To this end, advanced Buddhist studies is deemed necessary for the preservation of the precious living lineage and spread of the vast and profound Buddha Dharma for the benefit of all sentient beings. All relative and ultimate happiness of sentient beings results through the understanding of the interdependency of cause and effect, and from the cultivation of virtuous and abandonment of non-virtuous actions.
To preserve the unborken lineage of teachings and pass them on to the next generation of practitioners, Ngagyur Nyingma College (Five Sciences University) was established. It is now one of the largest Buddhist Institutes in existence.
Monks of Ngagyur Nyingma College study and practice the teachings of Buddha in accordance with the living lineage of Omniscient Rongzom Pandita, Omniscient Longchenpa, the Vidyadhara Rigzin Terdak Lingpa, Lochen Dharmashri and Jamgom Mipham Rinpoche.
Mindrolling in India
In 1959, at the age of twenty-nine, Trichen Jurme Kunzang Wangya's father, the Xth Mindrolling Trichen, had died. His enthronement as the XIth Mindrolling Trichen was set to take place. All these plans were shattered by the Communist Chinese invasion and the TIbetan uprising. His Holiness went into exile in India, fleeing Tibet along with many great masters of his generation. He left behind the monastery established in 1676 in the Drachi Valley by his predecessor the first Mindrolling Trichen, Terdag Lingpa.
After several years of tireless effort helping to establish Tibetan Buddhism in exile, his official enthronement took place in 1962. In 1976 Rinpoche was finally able to set up the official monastic seat of Mindrolling in exile. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in Dehra Dun in North India, Mindrolling Monastery has expanded steadily to become one of the largest Buddhist centers in existence today. All the great masters of Tibetan Buddhism, and especially all the teachers of the Nyingma lineage consider Mindrolling to be an inspiring example of the practice of the pure and profound Dharma of Vajrayana Buddhism.
The Mindrolling organization provides Buddhist education to over 300 monks beginning with primary and secondary school, facilitates research, and preserves and promotes Buddhism and Tibetan culture. Monks use Drubde Ödsal Ling for 3-month and 3-year retreats. Libraries are expanding and the recently fomed, Dharmashri Translation Group, is busy translating liturgies and publishing a Buddhist Journal. Samten Tse Retreat Center, a branch of Mindrolling for nuns and western retreatants located in Musoorie, is responsible for preserving the Jetsunma line, one of the most remarkable features of Mindrolling. The tradition of female masters at Mindrolling can be traced back to Yeshe Sogyal and Machig Labdron.
Established in 1991, Nagyur Nyingma College, Mindrolling's Institute of Advanced Buddhist Studies. (Five Sciences University) where hundreds of monks receive advance training to preserve the unbroken lineage of teachings and pass them on to the next generation of practitioners. It is now one of the largest Buddhist Institutes in existence. Monks of Ngagyur Nyingma College study and practice the teachings of Buddha in accordance with the living lineage. The College library at Mindrolling houses commentaries by Indian and Tibetan masters on the Buddha's teachings. Current expansion will add a state-of-the art media facility for presevation activities.
Mindrolling has many magnificent examples of buddhist art and architecture. Ngedon Gatsal Ling, the main monastery and practice center at Mindrolling. There are also many shrine rooms including several within the Great Stupa, constructed to benefit all beings and dedicated to world peace, was inaugurated in October, 2002. There are several large prayer wheels on the grounds surrounding the Stupa for use by monks and laity. In the Buddha garden, the huge standing Buddha keeps a watchful eye, surrounded by a fence holding dozens more large prayer wheels.
Life of the monastic residents is closely interwoven with that of the Tibetan Refuge Colony of Clement Town, adjacent to Mindrolling. The Community Prayer Hall of Clement Town is on the Monastery property. The building also houses dormitories and classrooms for the schools for young monks. The young students follow a curriculum consisting of a wide range of dharma and practical studies.
Industriousness is inextricably interwoven with the contemplative and scholarly atmosphere of Mindrolling. The monastery maintains its own dairy requiring the care of animals. The infrastructure and landscape require constant care and attention. Ongoing construction projects have been adding more facilities such as a Guesthouse (Dekyi Gatsal) for visitors, a Health Care Clinic with both Tibetan and Western medical staff, housing for seniors, and a new café which is eagarly awaited.
The acitivities of the Mindrolling Monastery and its college, the Ngagyur Nyingma Institute, are administered by a staff of Rinpoches.
History
His Holiness the 11th Mindrolling Trichen
The Birth of His Holiness
The 11th Mindrolling throne holder, Trichen Jurme Kunzang Wangyal was born to the 10th Mindrolling Trichen Jurme Dondrub Wangyal and Yum Dawa Drolma (his mother), on the eighteenth day of the first lunar month of the iron sheep year.Education, Empowerments & Root Guru
His Holiness received extensive teachings and empowerments from many exceptional Tibetan masters. Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodro, Sechen Kongtrul the great, Minling Chung Rinpoche, Minling Khen Rinpoche, Sechen Rabjam Rinpoche, Dordzin Namdrol Gyatso, Dordzin Dechen Choedzin and Gelong Kunzangla are some of the renowned masters with whom he studied.His Holiness’ root guru was Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö from whom he received the precious instructions on the Guhyagarbhatantra and its various commentaries. Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche proclaimed His Holiness as having greatly excelled in the understanding and practice of these precious teachings and instructed him to teach it eleven times to fortunate and worthy students in future.
Retreats, Writing, and Terma Discoveries
After studying many years with great Tibetan Buddhist masters, Rinpoche spent more than 14 years in retreats, accomplishing many practices. Among wondrous signs he composed many teachings and discovered the terma of Jigten Wangchuk Pema Garwang, the Great Compassionate One.1959: Escape from Tibet
The parinirvana of the 10th Mindrolling Trichen took place when Rinpoche was only seven years of age. During the years which followed, Rinpoche continued his studies and began fulfilling his responsibilities as the next throne holder. The Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959 and its consequent circumstances obstructed his official enthronement. At the request of his sangha and family members, His Holiness Mindrolling Trichen escaped from Tibet at the age of 29.Rinpoche spent some time in Bhutan and then traveled on to India. He met and lived with the great master His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche, who had been a friend to the 10th Mindrolling Trichen.
Enthronement of the XIth Mindrolling Trichen
In 1962, His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche and His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche performed the formal enthronement ceremony of His Holiness as the XIth Mindrolling Trichen in the presence of many renowned teachers and dignitaries at the Zangdok Palri Monastery in Kalimpong. In Kalimpong, while working closely with H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche, H.H. the 16th Karmapa, H.H. Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and others, Rinpoche actively participated in establishing the Dharma in India. He organized many great assemblies, initiations and teachings.Establishment of Mindrolling Monastery in India
In 1976 Rinpoche moved to Dehra Dun, India and took his seat as the head of the Mindrolling Monastery in exile where he continued to benefit sentient beings by turning the wheel of Dharma. His presence in the world has inspired others to maintain the selfless and compassionate pure path. His efforts mostly concentrated on propagating the vision and advice of the great Dharma King Chögyal Terdag Lingpa: to ensure the purity of the teachings and to maintain the samaya.Renowned within the Tibetan community as an emanation of Padmasambhava, His Holiness the XIth Mindrolling Trichen has been revered and respected throughout the Buddhist world as a great Mahasiddha and one of the great accomplished masters of this century.
Trichen Dorje Chang, as he is known to many, lived with his family and the Mindrolling Sangha in Dehra Dun until his parinirvana.
The Parinirvana of His Holiness
At 7:00 in the evening of the 3rd day of the 1st month of Miracles in the year of the Earth Mouse (9 February 2008), without even the slightest discomfort, with a face even more radiant than before, and with a smiling countenance, His Holiness the 11th Mindrolling Trichen Rinpoche gazed lovingly at all those surrounding him. Then, with the aspect of resting, Kyabje Mindrolling Trichen Jurme Kunzang Wangyal displayed the final activity of transferring his enlightened intention to another realm, in order to turn the minds of those to be tamed towards the dharma.
In 1913, he went to Gangtok, where he met the great literary scholar and grammarian Orgyen Tendzin Rinpoche (1863-1936), who had travelled in Tibet and spent time at Tsurpu Monastery. Khunu Lama spent three years studying Sanskrit grammar with Orgyen Tendzin in Rumtek. He then went to Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, where he continues his studies of grammar and poetry and also began his serious study of buddhist philosophy. After three years there, he went to Lhasa where he studied further and also taught literary sciences at the famous Medical and Astrological centre and was a tutor to several noble families. At Drikung Til, he studied with the accomplished Drikung master Drubwang Amgön Rinpoche. He also studied Mahamudra at a Drukpa Kagyü centre called Khamda, and he studied at the three main Gelugpa monasteries of Drepung, Sera and Ganden.
At the request of the Sixth Panchen Lama, Chökyi Nyima
In the early 1920s, Khunu Lama travelled to Kham, where he stayed for approximately fourteen years. During this time he studied with Katok Situ Chökyi Gyatso, Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö, Khenpo Shenga, Minyak Kunzang Sönam, Khenpo Kunpal, Khenpo Jamyang Gyaltsen, and many other masters from all schools. He also taught Sanskrit to Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and Dezhung Rinpoche.
H.E Nub Namkhai Nyingpo BhutanNamkhai Nyingpo was one of the five that King Trisong Detsen of Tibet chose to send to India in search of the tantras at the behest of Guru Pema Jungnay. The five - Nub Namkhai Nyingpo, Drugu Epaksha, Lang Pelgyi Senge, Singharaja and Dre Gyelwai Lodro - were ordained by the abbot of the Samye monastery, Shantarakshita, and trained in the Sanskrit and Tibetan languages, and with gold dust for currency, they set out for India.
Readily accepting much hardship on the way they finally reached Eastern India, and at Kamarupa, a major tantric seat in Assam, they encountered a Dakini who directed them to the master Hungkara, who lived in the Garuda Grove at Golden Rock, Serdrak Jakhyung Tsel. At the master's residence they were greeted by an attendant Saukhya Deva to whom they made a gift of some gold reuesting him to facilitate an audience with the Master and they were ushered through nine successive circular concentric chambers into the master's presence. Hungkara greeted them kindly and after receiving their offering gave them initiation and instruction.
First Hungkara revealed a series of mandalas of the Buddha-deity Yangdak Thuk, Immaculate Mind, followed by a series of mandalas of the Buddha-deity Dutsi Men, Ambrosial Panacea, for long-life practice. He also showed them Vajrasattva mandalas and the methods of conduct of the tantric yogin. Through these initiations the Tibetans saw the faces of the Buddha-deities.
Then Hungkara gave them detailed instruction on the practice of Yangdak Thuk and instructed the Tibetan monks to stabilize their meditation in a year-long retreat, but fearful of the country and the king, four of them opted to disobey Hungkara and left Namkhai Nyingpo alone to do the retreat. The master sent off the fearful monks with a wooden phurba to protect them, carried by Lang Pelgyi Senge, with instruction to insert it into his pillow at night. One night as they slept by a lake in Nepal, Drugu Epaksha withdrew it from Pelgyi Senge's pillow and stuck it into his own. Then because of their lack of faith in their Guru's instruction, the black-devil naga called Damdzin, Mud-Holder, who lived in the lake, took the form of a black snake and bit Lang Pelgyi Senge in the small veins of his neck and killed him. Back in Tibet, the king and ministers disbelieved their story and exiled the three to distant parts of the country.
Namkhai Nyingpo meditated for one year in the Garuda Grove at Golden Rock, before he saw the vision of the male and female Yangdak Herukas in union. Thereby he attained both ordinary magical powers and supreme realization. Then Hungkara advised him to return to Tibet.
King Trisong Detsen received him gratefully. Expressing his accomplishment of Yangdak, Namkhai Nyingpo slit open his torso from top to bottom with a silver knife, revealing the forty-two peaceful Buddha-deities in his chest and the fifty-eight blood-drinking Herukas in his stomach. The King made Namkhai Nyingpo his high priest and received instruction from him before jealous conspiring ministers had him exiled to Iron Phurba Rock, Chakphur Drak, to the west of kharchhu in Lhodrak near the Bhutan border. There he left the imprint of his body in rock and demonstrated his realization by penetrating a boulder with his phurba. He could spontaneously ignite butter lamps and he could travel riding on the suns rays.
The King, meanwhile, became seriously ill. The rites performed for his recovery were made to no avail. Likewise all the activity of astrologers and exorcists proved futile. But a diviner advised him to recall Namkhai Nyingpo from exile, which he did, and Namkhai Nyingpo cured him by magical means. His opponents at court continued to conspire against him. Commanded to dress the king's hair just before sunset with promise of dire punishment if he failed to complete the task before the sun set, Namkhai Nyingpo stuck his wooden phurba into the crack between light and shade, delaying sunset for half a day while he completed his task. And when he had finished he told the servants to put the animals into their byres and corals, and pulling out the phurba from the line between light and shade the sun suddenly set. When his enemies set an ambush to kill him, exclaiming "HUNG! HUNG!" in a loud wrathful voice, a thunderbolt fell out of the sky and catching it upon the tip of his index finder he kept it spinning there. Then the Bhikshu Namkhai Nyingpo flew on the rays of the sun to kharchhu in Lhodrak.
