News
Teachings and Oral Transmissions
4th birthday of Mindrolling Dungsay Jurme Rinchen Namgyal Rinpoche
Annually Exam Reports
Long-Life Puja to Rinpoche
On the 15th February 2023
Rinpoche Visit to Vietnam
Rinpoche Share Thoughts
Annual Tredha Tsechu Puja in USA
After Rinpoche’s program ended in New York, He travelled to Tokyo, Japan. There in Sawara, Chiba, Rinpoche inaugurated the Samye Chokhorling, New Nyingma monastery. He gave teachings and Rigzin Thugthig wang in Tokyo where many people attended.
New College Administers
Sikkim Tour
Losar Celebration
The last day of the monlam
33rd Monlam Chenmo, 9th February 2022
On the last day, the Guru Padmasambhava Tsok/feast offering prayer is held. Annualy almost 10,000 people, including monks and nuns from all around the world would attend this great prayer.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed as a result, this great annual prayer has not been held in Bodhgaya. So, we at Mindrolling Monastery, to ensure the continuity of the Monlam Chemo or the Great World Peace prayer ceremony, have been conducting it here since 2021.
The 33rd prayer ceremony began on the 9th February and will be held for 3 days. The last day of the Monlam, puja for all the deceased, Shitro, will be done. All sangha members of Mindrolling Monastery are attending this. This year too H.E. Minling Khenchen Rinpoche will be the full sponsor during these prayers including the offerings made to each participants and to all staffs each day.
62nd birthday celebration of 12th HH Mindroling Trichen Dalha Gyalsten Rinpoche
Mindrolling sangha celebrated the birthday of HH Minling Trichen‘s on 29th November. H. E. Khochen Rinpoche, H. E. Tulku Penam Rinpoche along with Rinpoches, Tulkus, Khenpos and whole sangha attendent the birthday ceremony prayers.
HH Dalha Gyaltsen Rinpoche, the son of 11th HIs Holiness Minling Trichen Jurme Kunzang Wangyal and Yum Sonam-la (his mother), was born in Tibet in 1959 while His Holiness was in the Gesar retreat, so he was named Dalha Gyaltsen. When His Holiness had to flee Tibet due to the Chinese invasion, Yum Sonam-la and the young Son Dalha Gyalsten were unfortunately not able flee with His Holiness. While growing up in Tibet, His Holiness studied under many qualified Teachers and his interests included Tibetan medicine. Years later, His Holiness traveled to Mindrolling Monastery in India and received numerous teachings and transmissions from some of the most accomplished great masters of that time.
These included His father His Holiness Minling Trichen Rinpoche, His Holiness Dilgo Khyenste Rinpoche, His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, His Holiness Trulshig Rinpoche and Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok. His Holiness resides in Tibet where he returned after studying in India for many years.
Announcement
Mindrolling College
Regardless of all the restrictions imposed due to COVID-19, monks attending the Ngagyur Nyingma College, Mindrolling, have been following the full curriculum of the college as usual. All monks followed protocols of COVID-19 when attending the classes. As is the norm at all institutions of Tibetan monasteries and colleges, free education, meals and lodging are provided to all monk students. In addition to this here at Mindroling college, H. E. Minling Khenchen Rinpoche gives pocket money of Rs.500 monthly to each monks.
Annual summer retreat or monsoon retreat has been concluded for the year of 2021
Yarne, the Summer Retreat 15th Day of 6th Lunar Month to 30th Day of the 7th Lunar Month
This is the rain retreat for one and a half months from the 15th day of the 6th lunar month to the 30th day of the 7th lunar month. The retreat is held in accordance with the instructions of the Buddha in the Vinaya Sutra directing all monks to observe certain restrictions and engage themselves in meditation and practices for the period. Khenpos and Lonpons gave teachings each day and ‘Sojong’ or confessions are offered by the sangha during this retreat. Many butter lamps are offered and pujas are done during the retreat. On the evening of the 30th, the last day of the retreat, selected monks give teachings and expound the Dharma to the community. The retreat is usually followed by a 3-5 day holiday break for the monks.
Gyen Shedrup la and Tenzin Nyima la
Gyen Shedrup la (1925-2021)one of the senior most Master (Nga Ramjamba) passed away on the 15th day of 2nd month of the Lunar calendar in Lhasa, Tibet. He was 96 years old.He is the last remaining Master of the previous generation of Mindrolling lineage. On the 22nd day of the 2nd Lunar month, his kudung will be taken to Mindroling monastery, Lhoka for cremation according to the tradition.
Brief life story of Gyen Shedrupla
After the cultural revolution in Tibet, Gyenla along with Lt. Tenzin Nyimala, revived all the Mindrolling rituals and ceremonies. They continued to teach to all the younger generations who were newly joined the monastery.
After Gyenla was invited to Mindrolling in Dehra Dun, India, he taught all the ceremonial rituals, ritual lama dances, chanting melodies, torma making etc always making sure the monks got it perfectly.
After completing his work, he returned Tibet. All the ceremonies and aspects of the ceremonies that continues to be followed today are the fruition of his contribution.
Lt. Tenzin Nyima la also had passed away a few years ago in Tibet. He too was invited to Mindrolling in India where he gave the oral transmissions of Rigzin Gyurme Terdag Lingpa’s Kabum to the sangha and then left for tibet. After arriving in Tibet, he stayed in solitary retreat till he passed away.
Mindrolling Sangha in Tibet, India and all the followers in the world are indebted to them for their diligence, patience, kindness and great efforts in giving this generations the continuity of Mindrolling rituals which will flourish till eternity. We as the the followers of this lineage are indebted to them. We feel a great sense of loss, deep gratitude and pride in their great contributions to the lineage.We hope that the guidance they have provided may continue through this generation and the future.
Gyen Shedrup la and Tenzin Nyima la were the last of the older generation of Mindrolling Sangha.
Ceremony of consecration of the Memorial stupa of Lt. Lorde Gyari Rinpoche
The Day and stars were in perfect harmony for the Ceremony of consecration of the Memorial stupa of Lt. Lorde Gyari Rinpoche, father of H.E. Tulku Penam Rinpoche. It was held in Mindroling Monastery. The ceremony known as RABNE in Tibetan was led by Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, Khenpos and all the senior most monks of Mindrolling and was hosted by H.E. Tulku Penam Rinpoche and his family.
Brief life story of Lt. Lodi Gyari Rinpoche(Pema Lodro Gyaltsen)
Lodi Gyari Rinpoche (Pema Lodrö Gyaltsen, Tib. རྒྱ་རི་བློ་གྲོས་) (1949-2018) was one of the founding members of the Tibetan Youth Congress and the Executive Chairman of the Board of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT). He was also the special envoy to His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Washington D.C., USA.
In terms of the Nyingma lineage, he received a traditional monastic education as the tulku of Khenchen Jampal Dewé Nyima from Lumorap Monastery in Tibet, before fleeing the country with his family in 1959. His predecessor was one of the main teachers of Dudjom Rinpoche.
Lodi Gyari Rinpoche passed away in San Francisco on 29 October 2018.
Annual Ritual Dance of 8 Manifestation of Guru Padmasambhava
H.E. Minling Khenchen Rinpoche gave the oral trasmission of Tri Yeshe Lama
H.E. Minling Khenchen Rinpoche gave the oral trasmission of Tri Yeshe Lama to the sangha of Mindrolling. The transmission was held in the shrine hall of Ngagyur Nyingma college. The text is one of the most important cycle of teachings of Terton Jigme Lingpa (1730-1798). He was a tertön of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and was the promulgator of the Longchen Nyingthik, the Heart Essence teachings of Longchenpa, from whom, according to tradition, he received a vision in which the teachings were revealed. The Longchen Nyingthik eventually became the most famous and widely practiced cycle of Dzogchen teachings.
Tri Yeshe Lama is the most important practice manual on the Great Perfection teachings of the Nyingma tradition. The teachings and practices taught in Yeshe Lama encompass the innermost cycle of upadesha teachings and clearly define the Dzogchen practices of trekchö, cutting through to original purity, and tögal, crossing over with spontaneous presence. These are the swift practices that can lead to the attainment of the rainbow body and the complete attainment of buddhahood, and this is the same path that has been followed by many of the great spiritual Masters of India and Tibet. Consequently, if one studies and trains in the Yeshe Lama correctly and with deepest respect and diligence with a qualified Master, the possibility of enlightenment within one lifetime is within reach.
Tashi deleg And Happy new year
Birthday Celebration
Manjushree Wang from the teachings of JAMGON JU MIPHAM RINPOCHE (1846-1912)
On 7th December, after the completion of Oral transmission of Jamgon Mipham Rinpoche’s teachings, given by Ven. Khenpo Tsegyal to the Mindroling Sangha, Minling Khenchen Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushree Empowerment or wang to the sangha. This empowerment is from the 32 volumn teachings of Jamgon Mipham Rinpoche.
There are two empowerments in his teachings. Wisdom and long life empowerments of Manjushree. Both were bestowed to the sangha. This concludes the final completion of oral transmission of Jamgon Mipham Rinpoche for the year 2020.
Completion of Oral Transmission of JAMGON JU MIPHAM RINPOCHE’S (1846-1912) TEACHINGS
The oral transmission of Jamgon Ju Mipham Rinpoche’s teachings which is about 32 volumes has successfully completed on the 6th of December. Jamgön Ju Mipham Gyatso, or Mipham Jamyang Namgyal Gyamtso (also known as “Mipham the Great”) was a very influential philosopher and polymath of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. His teachings, 32 volumes, were on topics such as painting, poetics, sculpture, alchemy, medicine, logic, philosophy and tantra. Mipham Rinpoche’s works are still central to the scholastic curriculum in Nyingma monasteries today. He is also considered one of the leading figures in the Ri-me (non-sectarian) movement in Tibet.
Venerable Khenpo Tsegyal tirelessly with dedication, throughout the 45 days gave the transmission to the Mindroling Sangha. Although lay people could not attend due to the restrictions of Covid 19 but they contributed by offering meals to the Sangha for which we are grateful.
Inauguration of Bust Statue of Lt. H.E. Payul Dzongna Rinpoche
On November 12th 2020, I was invited to inaugurate the bust statue of H.E. Payul Dzongna Rinpoche at Dhondupling, Tibetan settlement in Clement Town, Dehra Dun in North India. After we had completed the program that was scheduled for that day, I came to know that many people, especially the younger generation of Tibetans, from the age 15 to 45, had no idea who Payul Dzongna Rinpoche was and what his contribution to the Tibetan community was spiritually and in other ways. They just knew he was a Rinpoche (spiritual master), that’s it. So I am here today sharing what little I know about him or heard about him with you all.
His Eminence Payul Dzongna Rinpoche was born in the year 1931 in Tibet. There Rinpoche completed his studies in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and received many teachings from great masters in Tibet during that time. In the year 1964, due to the difficult situation in Tibet, many Tibetans felt insecure and fled to India, so did Rinpoche. The Indian Government without any hesitation generously welcomed around 80,000 to 90,000 Tibetans. They also gave land to them to build what they then thought was their temporary settlements. During the first year in India, Tibetans had to go through many difficulties, food was scarce, funds were low, they were not accustomed to the hot climate and the language was foreign to them.
Under the circumstances the Indian government did their level best. Due to the sudden change of climate, unfamiliar environment and lack of immunity to new disease, many Tibetans died. After Rinpoche’s arrival in India, Rinpoche along with H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche and Gungtang Tsultrim (Rinpoche’s childhood friend) served the Tibetan Government in Exile in Dharmasala under the leadership of His Holiness Dalai Lama.
They were in the Education Department along with other Rinpoches and other lay Tibetan people. Realizing that education was a very important and integral part for the survival of our language and culture, they worked very hard for many years with the best of their ability. The basic format of the modern school curriculums which still continues to be followed in schools for Tibetans in the remote places and in the settlements were conceived during their service. Later, due to differences of viewpoints with the authorities, 3 of them and many others left their service. Rinpoche then went to Rewlasar (Tso Pema), the holy pilgrimage place of Guru Padmasambhava which was around 4 hours’ drive away from Dharmasala. Dudjom Rinpoche left for Kalimpong and Gungtang Tsultrim left for Clement Town, Dehradun. During Rinpoche’s stay in Rewalsar, Rinpoche came to realize that the religious sector was in a poor state. In Tibet there was no problem as both the religious and the civil sectors were flourishing but as refugees in a new country, everything had to rebuild again from scratch, especially for the sake of the younger generation of Tibetans. As such there in Rewalsar, Rinpoche decided to work towards the continuity of Buddha’s teachings. Thus Rinpoche started the Ngagyur Nyingma Philoshopy and Research College which was the first of its kind in India, with just few students.
While Rinpoche was in Rewalsar guiding the monk students, Rinpoche’s childhood friend, Gungtang Tsultrim, on his request had been given land by the Indian government in Clement Town, Dehra Dun. This land is now the famous Dhondupling, Tibetan Colony, Clement town, which is known to be one of the most advanced Tibetan settlements in India and also where Mindroling Monastery, main seat of Mindroling Lineage in exile is located.He had also opened a sulfur factory(chuna) and a handicraft factory for the Tibetan people to earn their livelihood. Although Rinpoche and Gungtang Tsultrim were in different places at that time they were in close contact with each other. Gungtang Tsultrim invited Rinpoche and offered him the land. It was a barren land which used to be an army camp during the British time. When Rinpoche arrived there he realised compared to Tso Pema , the land was conveniently close to the town , Dehra dun. Connectivity to other places and access to resources was easier than in Tso Pema. Rinpoche saw the potential in the land and accepted the invitation. Rinpoche continued with his Ngagyur Nyingma College curriculum here.
During his time here, Rinpoche and H.E. Khochen Rinpoche had discussions about the Nyingma tradition, how to sustain it and about setting up Mindroling, as being the source of Nyingma Lineage. This is how the main seat of Mindroling was established to what it is now. Rinpoche provided financial support to many other projects and provided fooding and lodging to the younger monks who came there to study. Although Rinpoche himself had financial constraints not having any personal wealth to support those in need, he would borrow money to continue to help them. Many had benefited from Rinpoche’s compassionate generosity. A few of those who completed their studies and are elderly now continue to serve the monastery and community. A few have left the monastery but are successful in their own life. Around the year 1996/97 Rinpoche, with great difficulty was able to payback the debt. The debt he incurred was not for himself but for the people in need. Few years after Rinpoche was in Clement town, just when things were going fine, Gungtang Tsultrim, his childhood friend was unfortunately assassinated.It was rumoured that he was assassinated by a Tibetan due to disagreements and because of political intrigue. It was a big loss for the Tibetan settlement here in Clement Town.
After his childhood friend’s passing, Rinpoche was elected as the President of the settlement in succession to his friend. After a few years, Rinpoche got permission to go to Tibet. There he helped in the reconstruction of the Payul monstery. Rinpoche also traveled to many different countries teaching the Dharma. Rinpoche continued his work in Dehra dun but due to the continued political intrigue in the Tibetan community, it was difficult for Rinpoche to stay in India, so He left for Nepal. There in Nepal Rinpoche build a monastery and school for the people. Around the age of 56, at the end of the year 1987 Rinpoche passed away. It was a great loss for the Tibetan people and especially for the younger generation. After Rinpoche’s passing, H.E. Khochen Rinpoche was elected as the President of the settlement and continues to remain so.
Among all of his great works one of H.E. Payul Zongna Rinpoche’s biggest contribution is being the Pioneer who reestablished Mindroling Monastery in India and inviting HH. The 11th Mindroling Trichen Rinpoche and his family to Mindroling Monastery from Kalimpong. His was known to be an honest and straight forward person, fearless in expressing his opinions and not hypocritical. So today in remembrance of this great being I am sharing with you his memorable life story and his contributions to the Tibetan society in exile and in Tibet. This memorable bust statue is not a show piece or decoration piece. we need to know about Rinpoche’s life-story, appreciate his contribution to the Tibetan community and the younger generation need to know about him.Whatever wherever we are now, the benefits,the recognition in the world,who we are as Tibetans, why we enjoy those benefits, are due the contributions of great people like him who sacrificed their life for the continuity of our traditions or religious beliefs. We should never forget them.
This is my short message.
HH 12th Mindroling Trichen Rinpoche’s Birthday Celebration
ORAL TRANSMISSION OF Jamgön Ju Mipham Gyatso’s Teachings
Annual Summer Retreat, September 2020
Puja of North West Wrath of Heaven to eradicate the Covid19 pandemic
Gutor/Shinjey Drekjom – The Great Yamantaka Sadhana
Mindroing in India has never failed in upholding its tradition of carrying out all Drupchens (Great Accomplishment Ceremonies) just as in Great Mindroing in Tibet. Gutor/Shinjey is one of them. It is always carried out at the supper end of the year and the Idyllic Yamantaka furies Mask (ZOR) will be burned on 29 th of 12 th . It is indeed the annual ritual to help our negative KARMA and all related bad omens burns before the start of New Year (LOSAR).
The 31st Annual Nyingma Monlam Chenmo 2020
The ten days long prayers for world peace that started on 26th January 2020 will end on 4th February 2020. As usual, hundreds and thousands Monks and Nuns from Monasteries in India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim have gathered. The uncountable pilgrims all over the world also joins the Chant.
Many Eminent masters from different monasteries has also made thier presence. Mindroling Sangha including Rinpoches always participate in the prayer annually without Fail.
This year is 31st since its inception in 1989.
The 30th annual Examination Ngagyur Nyingma College
As its the most important part of College ‘s activities, all the students as wel prepared entered the main shrine Hall of NNC with great enthusiasm on 4th of January to write thier fordt ever paper. It remained until 17th of Feb writing thier fifth and last paper.
The Chairman of NNC, Ven. Khenpo Sangye Jatso, examiner Lopon Ogyen Tsering and Lopon Yeshi and the whole Sangha are exptreamly happy with their successful completion of examination. Although the whole sangha missed the presence of HE Kyabje Minlling Khenchen Rinpoche Rinpoche.
May this be a drop of water into the mity oceans of Buddhas Dharma!!!
The Birth Aniversary of 9th Minlling Khenchen Rinpoche
BIOGRAPHY
HIS EMINENCE THE 9TH KHENCHEN RINPOCHE
BORN INTO THE MINDROLLING LINEAGE
His Eminence the 9th Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, recipient of India’s esteemed Bharat Jhoti Award and Bharat Gaurav Award, as well as the Best Citizen Award of India and the Appreciation Award from the Mayor of Hsin-Chu, Taiwan, was born into the family of Mindrolling, the divine Nyok lineage, in 1970. His Eminence Minling Khenchen Rinpoche’s mother, Jetsun Dechen Wangmo, was the aunt of His Holiness the 11th Mindrolling Trichen Rinpoche.
At birth, Rinpoche was given the name of Jigmey Namgyal by H.E. Minling Chung Rinpoche 1908-1980). He was recognized as the reincarnation of the 8th Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, Ngawang Khentse Norbu, by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and Lhatog Rinpoche. Being born into the Mindrolling lineage, His Eminence Jigmey Namgyal, now known as Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, is the lineage holder of the Khenrab branch of the Mindrolling tradition. Lochen Dharmashri, Gyalsay Tenpai Nyima, and the previous Minling Khenchen, are a few of the exceptional masters who have been holders of this lineage in the past.
Education and Studies
Rinpoche began his studies in recitation, calligraphy, and Tibetan medicine with Trlu Khenpo Tsenam Rinpoche, the founder of the first Tibetan Medical Institute in Lhasa, Tibet. He continued studies in Tibetan grammar, poetry, philosophy, and, in particular, the rituals and liturgies of the Mindrolling tradition with the Venerable Dhagpo Rinpoche. For further studies, Rinpoche entered the Ngagyur Nyingma Institute of Namdrolling in Mysore, India, where he undertook the studies of Vinaya, Sutra, Abhidharma, Madhyamaka, and logic, under the blessing and special guidance of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche. During this time, Rinpoche also received the Kama and his first Terdzo Wang from His Holiness Penor Rinpoche.
Transmissions
Rinpoche received transmission of the Terma teachings of Pema Lingpa, the Tri Yeshey Lama instructions, and numerous other transmissions and empowerments from His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, His Holiness Mindrolling Trichen Rinpoche, His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, His Eminence Trulshig Rinpoche, His Eminence Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche, and His Eminence Tulku Ugyen Rinpoche.
Seated in front: H.H. Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Kneeling: Tulku Kunga Rinpoche. Standing left to right: Tulku Rigzin Pema, Jhokhang Rinpoche, Yuda Rinpoche, Tsona Tulku, Sechen Rabjam Rinpoche, Yangthang Rinpoche, Dhakpo Rinpoche, Druk Rinpoche , Dungsay Rinpoche(son of H.H. Mindrolling Trichen Rinpoche), Dzikar Kongtrul Rinpoche, Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, Khyenste Jigme Rinpoche, Tulku Sangnag, and Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche.
While visiting Dharamsala at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Rinpoche and The 12th Mindrolling Trichen Dungsay Dhala Gyaltsen, along with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, all received instructions on the Guhayagarbhatantra from His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.
During this time, Rinpoche also received a special empowerment of the Great 5th Dalai Lama from His Holiness the present Dalai Lama.Under the instruction of His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Rinpoche received monastic ordination from His Eminence Trulshig Rinpoche.
Rinpoche has been teaching extensively in Asia, Europe, and the USA for more than twelve years. Rinpoche’s teachings are known for their clarity, depth, and humor, and attuned to the present day and age which has made him a greatly respected teacher amongst the younger Rinpoches of today.
Head Abbot In-Charge of Ngagyur Nyingma College
Rinpoche presides over the monastic university at Mindrolling and has been giving teachings and guidance to the monks consistently since he undertook the in-charge position in 1990.
Vice President of the Great Nyingma Monlam
At the request of the various Nyingma monasteries, Rinpoche accepted the on-going position of Vice President of the Great Nyingma Monlam (World Peace Prayers), held annually in Bodhgaya, India. Additionally, Rinpoche will be sponsoring the events of the Monlam for the years 2008, 2010, and 2012. Sponsorship responsibilities for this gathering include providing the means for food and lodging for all participants, numbering in the many thousands, as well as providing for other ceremonial expenses during the ten days of the Great World Peace Prayers.
Founder of the Eastern Sun Group
Rinpoche is the Founder of the Eastern Sun Group in Taiwan. This organization oversees all of Rinpoche’s projects – in India as well as other countries. In addition to the main projects mentioned on his website, Rinpoche is also leading the printing of sacred texts of the Nyingma lineage, especially of the Mindrolling, in order to preserve them for future generations.
For the first time in Mindrolling history, a manual of all ceremonial rituals, as well as other rituals of Nyingmapa and Torma (ritual ceremony offerings) will be printed in 2011. For posterity, this will provide the assurance that the continuity of the authentic ways of doing the sacred ancient rituals will be preserved.
The Eastern Sun Group has now merged with the Lay Buddhists’ Association in Taipei, Taiwan, an organization which was established in 1968, and currently has over 5000 members. This organization has been doing charity work in numerous countries around the world. Rinpoche is the Spiritual Advisor to this well respected and renowned charitable organization, now known as The Eastern Sun Group Lay Buddhists’ Association, Republic of China.
Nurturing the Dharma and Preserving the Lineage
Rinpoche continues to engage with the studies and practices which he has received over the course of a lifetime from his many esteemed Teachers. Each year Rinpoche presides over the various drubchens (ceremonies) held at Mindrolling Monastery, as well as devoting time to closed retreats. Rinpoche, with unceasing compassion and tireless activity, engages in nurturing the Dharma, and strives selflessly to preserve the lineage of Mindrolling.
Recognition and Prestigious Awards
Throughout his life, H.E. Khenchen Rinpoche has been honored with several achievement awards. His recent awards include the following (click on the awards to read more):
- Bharat Jyoti Award large view
- Bharat Gaurav Award large view
- Certificate of Excellence Award large view
- Best Citizens of India Award large view
- Hsin-Chu City Appreciation Award large view
The ceremonies, celebrating meritorious services, extrordinary performance, and outstanding contributions were attended by government officials, international dignitaries, and dedicated community members.
Khenpo Drugda Passed Away
It is with a heavy heart that we wish to announce that one of our senior most Khenpos, Khenpo Drugda aged 44, passed away suddenly on 12th December; 2019. He was part of the entourage of Minling Khenchen Rinpoche who was on pilgrimage in Bhutan. On the 15th day of the Lunar Calendar while on his way to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), he suffered a cardiac arrest due to the high altitude and passed away.
We are very grateful and indebted to His Royal Highness King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk of Bhutan for sending immediate assistance in the form of a rescue team including medical personnel,the Mayor of Paro and high ranking police officials.
The last rites and cremation of late Khenpo Drugda took place at the Pema Woseling Monastery (Retreat Centre), a branch of Mindroling situated at Jimminah. Khenpo Pema presided over the ceremony accompanied by the monks of the monastery.
Khenpo Drugda was born in the year of the Dragon. He was exemplary in the sense that not only was he learned, but compassionate and always helped all those in need. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of the College.He will be greatly missed.
We once again thank His Royal Highness the King and the people of Bhutan for the kind assistance extended to us during this sad and difficult time.
CELEBRATION OF THE 12TH MINLING TRICHEN DHALA GYALTSEN’S BIRTHDAY IN INDIA
Ngagyur Nyingma College of Mindroling (India) celebrated The 12th HH MInling Trichen Dhala Gyaltsen’s birthday on the 5th November.
During the ceremony H. E. Minling Khenchen Rinpoche mentioned that celebrating H.H.’s birthday is not merely like a celebration of some royal personage or some famous politician’s birthday but a profound religious event steeped in devotion. During each supplications, we always read the lineage prayer, mention how the lineage evolved and recollect each master’s contribution to the lineage and how it has been passed down to us. This is the reason why we are celebrating The 12th His Holiness Minling Trichen Dhala Gyaltsen, the present holder of the unbroken lineage of Mindrolling.
Some people are of the opinion that it is a Western thing to do, it is not. We have the tradition of celebrating the birth of holy and enlightened beings from time immemorial. For example, devotees have been celebrating Buddha Jayanti which is Buddha’s birthday, annually for centuries.
May His Holiness have a long and healthy life. May his dharma activities ever flourish and benefit all sentient beings!
Celebration of The 12th Minling Trichen Dhala Gyaltsen’s birthday in Tibet
The oral transmission of Lochen Dharmashri aka Ngawang Chöpal Gyatso
The oral transmission of Lochen Dharmashri aka Ngawang Chöpal Gyatso (1654-1717) ’s teachings has begun on the 13th October 2019. This transmission consists of Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajryana teachings. His Eminence Tulku Pema Rigzin has been invited to bestow this transmission. In the year 2018 Minling Khenchen Rinpoche requested Rinpoche and he had accepted to bestow it in the year 2019. This would be Rinpoche’s second time giving the transmission in Mindrolling.
This oral transmission has been sponsored by Minling Khenchen Rinpoche. Rinpoche’s sole purpose of this transmission was for the younger generations of Rinpoches, Tulkus, Khenpos, Monks, nuns and younger practionser who have not received it. The transmission had been bestowed only once in 1987 in Mindrolling monastery (India) by H.E. Rinpoche (Tulku Pema Rigzin). Total of 35 people received it, including H.E. Khochen Rinpoche, Minling Khenchen Rinpoche and Rinpoches during that time. This transmission is considered to be root of the Buddha’s teachings so the continuity of this lineage is very important.
The transmission is being held in the new shrine hall of Ngagyur Nyingma College. Rinpoches, Tulkus, Khenpos, monks and nuns from differed monasteries are attending, main participants are from the 6 major schools of the Nyingma lineages.
Lochen Dharma Shiri was the second Mindrolling Khenchen.
NNC host a historical event this year
His Holiness the 9th Minlling Khenchen Rinpoches chairs the 2nd Non-Sectarian Symposium on Sutra and Tantric Philosophy from 8th sept 2019.
The participants are from 6 major tradition of tibetan Buddhism and the event will happen for 2 days.
Mindrolling monastery as one of the main seats of Nyingmapa Tradition and particularly NGAGYUR NYINGMA College looks forward in hosting such programs in future too.
9th Milling Khenchen Rinpoche on Spiritual Tour in Taiwan
On invitation by the organizer, His Holiness 9th Minlling Khenchen Rinpoche blessed the Grand Annual Taiwan International Sangha Offering ceremony 2019. Rinpoche also led the prayer of natural freedom from five poison in accord of Red Avalokiteshvara (Thukje Chenpo Duknga Rangdrol)
Rinpoche will prolong his stay in Taiwan for coming days in various spiritual programs.
Important message from His Eminence 9th Minlling Khenchen Rinpoche
It’s an auspicious and happiest news in the history of Mindroling lineage that we all have been waiting for.
“I am very glad, devoted and delighted to share that on 30th of Saga Dawa Month, at 10.11am, a son with all signs of auspiciousness has been born to His Holiness Minlling Trichen Gyurmey Kunzang Jigmey Rinpoche and Consort Khandro Tsewang Chodron. I would like to request all devotees and followers of Mindroling lineage around the globe to pray for healthy, long life and successful Dharma Activities of the New Born Mindroling Dungsey.”
Begining of Formal study and training for HH Thrulzhik Yangsi Tenzin Choekyi Lodroe Rinpoche
We the Mindrolling Sangha and Monastery are proud and Honored to have HH Thrulzhik Yangsi Tenzin Chokye Lodroe Rinpoche to take up his Buddhist studies and training.
Today, 15th of 4th month in lunar calendar, (month of auspicious Saga Dawa) marks the formal beginning of Yangsi Rinpoche’s journey of training and learning in lineage that he is belonged to.
We wish and pray for Yangsi Rinpoche’s good health, successful training and wonderful blessing for all.
The Academic session for 2019 Begins
The academic year 2019 for Ngagyur Nyingma College, Mindrolling monastery began with the declaration of results and appointment of new administrators. The result was declared in presence of HE Minlling Khenchen, HE Khochen Rinpoche, HE Penam Rinpoche, Khenpos and senior Teachers.
The Words of appreciation from Rinpoches were extended to 11 of students who graduated this year.
The most Venerable Khenpo Sangye Gyatsho is the new president of the college, followed by Khenpo Denchen Dorjee, assistant president. Trulku Tashi Gyalpo and lopon Yeshi Gyatso are new Disciplinarians and and Lopon Lhuedrup Gyatso is new Secretary. Khenpo Pema Sherab and Lopon Yeshi Dargye are new accountants which makes complete administration of the year.
we hope for the successful academic year 2019.
His Eminence Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche at Mindrolling
A dream come true for Mindrolling Sangha this year that the (Non secterian master of all the time) His Eminence Kyabjey Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche visited Mindroling Monastery. Mindroling Monastery didn’t celebrated the Lunar New year or Losar (Earth Pig) as a solace and respect for the sudden loss of His Holiness Kathok Getse Rinpoche.
It was the personal wish of his Eminence Minlling Khenchen Rinpoche and the Mindrolling Sangha to have Rinpoche’s blessings at the same time, it so happened that His Eminence DJKR also wished to attend the Thukjecchenpo Great accomplishment to commamorate the Maha Peri-Nirvana of Minlling Thri Rinpoche Gyurmey Kunzang Wangyal. Thus, the fulfilment of wishes from both side auspiously occurred.
His Eminence DJKR bestowed Long Life Empowerment for Mindrolling Sangha and General Public on 10th Feb as a New year blessings and Manjushri Enpowerment for the Teachers and Student of Ngagyur Nyingma College.
Rinpoche will make his presence throughout the Tbukjechenpo great accomplishment which will take place for one week.
Shinjey Drubchen. (Yamantaka Sadhana) 28th Jan – 3rd Feb, 2019
The rich and supreme traditions of Mindrolling include Drubchens (Sadhana/accomplishment) held annually as per the precious instruction of Terdak Lingpa, Mindrolling Sangha has again assembled in the right place and time to initiate the Drubchen of Shinjey for many significant purposes that it has stood for eversince its first kind. This year the drubchen will be held from 28th of Jan and will end on 3rd of Feb. Shinjey/Yamantaka is the lord of death and often considered to be the wrathful expression of Manjusri by the Buddhists.
Yamantaka is a Sanskrit name that can be broken down into two primary elements: Yama, the name of the god of death; and antaka, making an end. Thus, Yamantaka means “Destroyer of Death” or “Conqueror of Death”.
Within Buddhism, “terminating death” is a quality of all buddhas as they have stopped the cycle of rebirth, samsara. Yamantaka, then, represents the goal of the Mahayana practitioner’s journey to enlightenment, or the journey itself: in awakening, one adopts the practice of Yamantaka, the practice of terminating death.
