Kazi Dawa Samdup: a Pioneering Translator of Tibetan Buddhist Texts

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Kazi Dawa Samdup (1868 – 1922)

Kazi Dawa Samdup (1868 – 1922)

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

Kazi Dawa Samdup (1868 – 1922) was one of the earliest translators of Tibetan Buddhist texts into the English language, and a pioneer who introduced Tibetan Buddhism to the west. During his lifetime, he had served as the interpreter to kings, lamas, politicians, and explorers such as His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama Thubten Gyatso (1876 – 1933), Alexandra David-Neel (1868 – 1969), the Maharaja of Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal (1860 – 1914), and Sir Charles Alfred Bell (1870-1945).

His encounters with these well-known personalities played an important role in giving him credibility, and attracting those who would offer their assistance to edit and publish his translations, such as Dr. Walter Yeeling Evans-Wentz (1878 – 1965) and Sir John Woodroffe (1865 – 1936).

The Tibetan Buddhist texts that he helped to translate, such as The Tibetan Book of the Dead, Tibet’s Great Yogi Milarepa, Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines, The Tibetan Book of the Great Liberation, and Shrichakrasambhara Tantra: A Buddhist Tantra (Dem-chog Tantra) have been reprinted multiple times and translated into many languages since their first publication. This shows that his works have helped plant the seeds of interest in Tibetan Buddhism in the minds of many westerners. Although he passed away at a relatively young age of 54 years old, his legacy continues to live on in his work.

 

Early Life and Education

Kazi Dawa Samdup was born in Sikkim on June 17, 1868.

Kazi Dawa Samdup was born in Sikkim on June 17, 1868.

Sarat Chandra Das (1849 – 1917), the first director of Bhutia Boarding School in Darjeeling.

Sarat Chandra Das (1849 – 1917), the first director of Bhutia Boarding School in Darjeeling.

On June 17, 1868, Kazi Dawa Samdup was born to the family of Shalngo Nyima Paljor, who was a member of the Clan of Guru Tashi, an ancestor of the Sikkim royal family. Kazi Dawa Samdup was an intelligent boy. When he was four years old, his grandfather taught him the Tibetan alphabet. At six years old, Kazi Dawa Samdup was enrolled into the Bhutia Boarding School, where he impressed the director, Sarat Chandra Das, with his intelligence. While in this school, he also took lessons from the Professor of Tibetan languages, Ugyen Gyatso, who was a Tibeto-Sikkimese monk from the Pemayangtse Monastery. After graduating, Kazi Dawa Samdup was enrolled in the Darjeeling Government High School.

Since Shalngo Nyima Paljor was related to the Sikkim royal family, he was associated with the Ging Monastery in Darjeeling, a branch of the Pemayangtse Monastery in Sikkim. Through his education, Kazi Dawa Samdup became proficient in three languages: English, Tibetan, and Sanskrit. It is said that at one point during his academic career, Kazi Dawa Samdup received a silver medal for his English language proficiency.

Sarki Tshering, Kazi Dawa Samdup’s brother who became a celebrated Buddhist monk, author, and poet who composed Sri Lanka’s freedom songs.

Sarki Tshering, a celebrated Theravadan Buddhist monk, author, and poet who composed Sri Lanka’s freedom songs

Upon the death of Kazi Dawa Samdup’s mother, Shalngo Nyima Paljor remarried and had three sons and a daughter with his second wife. The sons from his second wife had colourful lives. The first son, Phurba Dhondup, went to Sri Lanka to study Theravada Buddhism. The second son, Sarki Tshering, also went to Sri Lanka and later in his life become a celebrated Theravadan Buddhist monk, author, and poet who composed Sri Lanka’s freedom songs. The youngest son, Bhyapo, joined the British Army and died in action during World War I.

After completing his education, Kazi Dawa Samdup became a Chief Interpreter in the Raj Shahi Division of the British-India government. He was transferred to Buxaduar, which was a territory of Bhutan from December 1887 – October 1893.

Ging Monastery in Darjeeling, a branch of Pemayangtse Monastery in Sikkim

Ging Monastery in Darjeeling, a branch of Pemayangtse Monastery in Sikkim

Pemayangtse Monastery, the second oldest monastery in Sikkim

Pemayangtse Monastery, the second oldest monastery in Sikkim

 

Meeting his Root Teacher

Kazi Dawa Samdup met his root teacher, Tshampa Norbu (1838 – 1916) in a hermitage near Buxaduar.

Kazi Dawa Samdup met his root teacher, Tshampa Norbu (1838 – 1916) in a hermitage near Buxaduar.

When Kazi Dawa Samdup was working in Bhutan, he met his root teacher, Lopen Tshampa Norbu (1838 – 1916), in a hermitage near Buxaduar. Tshampa Norbu, also known as Hermit Guru Norbu, was a Bhutanese lama of the Kagyu tradition. Kazi Dawa Samdup received teachings and initiations from this lama.

Tshampa Norbu came from a respected Buddhist family in Bhutan. His family had encouraged him to take on a monastic life and he subsequently entered the State Monastery in Bhutan, where his maternal uncle served as the abbot. Upon the passing of his uncle, Tshampa Norbu became the rightful heir to the abbotship of the monastery and his uncle’s worldly possessions. However, several influential people in Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, contested these rights. In order not to prolong the conflict that would impact the monastery, Tshampa Norbu chose to renounce his rights to the abbotship and his uncle’s worldly possessions. After that, he went to live in a hermitage near Buxaduar, where Kazi Dawa Samdup found him and became his disciple.

According to Kazi Dawa Samdup, his root teacher was a fully ordained monk who was kind, strong, fervent in his faith, and whose eyes had seen beyond the limits of ordinary human vision. Tshampa Norbu made such a great impact in Kazi Dawa Samdup’s life that, at one point, the latter wanted to become an ordained monk like his teacher. However, his father disagreed and encouraged him to lead a layman’s lifestyle instead. Following his father’s advice, Kazi Dawa Samdup married and subsequently had children.

Perhaps Kazi Dawa Samdup did not regret not becoming an ordained monk because many years later, he confessed to Alexandra David-Neel that although he admired the holy lamas, such a lifestyle was not for him. Kazi Dawa Samdup liked to drink fermented beverages and had difficulties in letting go of this habit, as the alcoholic content in his drink made him more temperamental. In her book Magic and Mystery in Tibet, Alexandra David-Neel mentioned that she tried to persuade Kazi Dawa Samdup to totally abstain from fermented beverages, like all Buddhists are entreated to. But such an act needed more energy than he possessed, and it was impossible for him to resist his surroundings. Sometime later, Kazi Dawa Samdup’s father passed away, and he had to look after his stepmother, sister, and younger brothers.

Kazi Dawa Samdup received the initiation and commentary of The Epitome of the Great Symbol from his root teacher. During his lifetime, Tshampa Norbu had three copies of The Epitome of the Great Symbol. In 1893, when Kazi Dawa Samdup was about to leave Bhutan, Tshampa Norbu gave one copy of the text to him. However, this copy was lost when Kazi Dawa Samdup was about to move to Gangtok to assume the post of a Headmaster at the Bhutia Boarding School.

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In February 1916, Kazi Dawa Samdup visited his teacher to request permission and assistance in translating the Demchog Tantra with Sir John Woodroffe. During this visit, Kazi Dawa Samdup also obtained permission to translate The Epitome of the Great Symbol and other similar yogic treatises. Upon this, Tshampa Norbu told Kazi Dawa Samdup that very few of their own people would care to strive earnestly for spiritual development, and there would be more appeal to truth-seekers in Europe and in America.

The fact that a hermit lama, Tshampa Norbu, who had little contact with the outside world, was interested in spreading the sacred teaching of The Epitome of the Great Symbol to the west was extraordinary, and served as an indication of his attainment and clairvoyance. Knowing that Kazi Dawa Samdup had lost his copy of The Epitome of the Great Symbol, Tshampa Norbu gave him another copy before their parting. Unfortunately, this copy was also lost. Therefore, Kazi Dawa Samdup borrowed the copy from Tshampa Norbu’s other student in Buxaduar to translate the text. The translation was later published as a book titled Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines.

Several months after their last meeting took place, Tshampa Norbu passed away in October 1916. He was 78 years old.

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup: The Headmaster

A recent picture of Gangtok, Sikkim – Kazi Dawa Samdup was the headmaster of Bhutia Boarding school in Gangtok, Sikkim

A recent picture of Gangtok, Sikkim – Kazi Dawa Samdup was the headmaster of Bhutia Boarding school in Gangtok, Sikkim

In 1906, the Chogyal (Maharaja) of Sikkim, Sir Thutob Namgyal was searching for a suitable candidate to be the headmaster of Bhutia Boarding School for boys. One of the prerequisites to be the headmaster was the ability to teach both English and Tibetan languages. The Maharaja, at the recommendation of the Crown Prince of Sikkim Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal (1879 – 1914), appointed Kazi Dawa Samdup to the position of headmaster. In addition to working as the headmaster of the Bhutia Boarding School, Kazi Dawa Samdup was responsible for compiling and translating the Sikkim Gazette for the Maharaja of Sikkim in 1911.

The Crown Prince of Sikkim Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal (1879 – 1914)

The Crown Prince of Sikkim Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal (1879 – 1914)

According to Alexandra David-Neel, who had visited the Bhutia Boarding School, Kazi Dawa Samdup had a unique way of running the boarding school. He was often absent for a whole month to attend his other affairs, and left the students in the care of another teacher. When he was absent, the boys often wandered around to play in the woods and neglected their study. However, discipline would be fully restored whenever Kazi Dawa Samdup returned.

Kazi Dawa Samdup would line the boys up and question them to test their learning. His students would tremble with fear because they knew what to expect should they give an incorrect response. Kazi Dawa Samdup would start by questioning the boy at the end of the line. If his response was incorrect, the next boy in the line would have to answer. If the next boy gave the correct answer, he would have to slap the previous boy who had given the wrong answer and take his place. The unlucky boy who had been slapped then was given another question. If he was still ignorant of the answer, the third boy in the line would have to answer the question, if the answer given by the third boy was correct, then the third boy would have to slap the ignorant in the face, and the process continued until all the boys had their turn to answer the questions. If an unlucky boy was not able to respond to any of the questions correctly, he would reach the end of the line after receiving a dozen blows to the face.

Kazi Dawa Samdup in front of Bhutia Boarding School in Gangtok (Source: Magic and Mystery in Tibet by Alexandra David-Neel)

Kazi Dawa Samdup in front of Bhutia Boarding School in Gangtok (Source: Magic and Mystery in Tibet by Alexandra David-Neel)

If several boys in the line were not able to answer the questions correctly, then the smartest student in the group would be responsible for slapping his unlucky comrades. If the boy who was responsible for slapping his comrades hesitated in giving his friends a real blow and only pretended to hit them, Kazi Dawa Samdup would show him how to slap the unlucky boy with his large hand. Then the boy who hesitated had to demonstrate that he was able to give a real slap to his friend’s face. If all of the children were not able to answer the questions, Kazi Dawa Samdup would have reprimanded all of them.

There were also times when punishments were given for transgression of rules that had never been established or communicated previously. In these cases, Kazi Dawa Samdup would use a long and heavy stick and order the unlucky boy to stretch his arm out with his palm facing up. Then, the boy had to endure strokes from his master. According to Alexandra David-Neel who witnessed one of these events, Dawa Samdup would do a kind of war dance, leaping and shouting ‘ban!’ with each stroke, which would then be accompanied by his victim, whose pain would also cause him to stamp and yell.

As he maneuvered his weapon, Dawasandup executed a kind of savage war dance, marking each stroke with a leap and a wild exclamation of “ban!” So, with the active though unwilling co-operation of the victim, whose pain caused him to stamp, writhe and yell, the punishment looked like a devilish ballet.

David-Neel, Alexandra. Magic and Mystery in Tibet. Dover Publications, 1971. Print.

After several days of running the boarding school and disciplining students, Kazi Dawa Samdup would abandon his students again.

The boys at Bhutia Boarding school in Gangtok (Source: Magic and Mystery in Tibet by Alexandra David-Neel)

The boys at Bhutia Boarding school in Gangtok (Source: Magic and Mystery in Tibet by Alexandra David-Neel)

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup: The Interpreter

A picture depicting Imperial Durbar in New Delhi to mark the succession of King George V as the Emperor of India in 1911.

A picture depicting the Imperial Durbar in New Delhi to mark the succession of King George V as the Emperor of India in 1911.

Imperial Durbar in New Delhi in 1911

The Imperial Durbar in New Delhi in 1911

Kazi Dawa Samdup’s proficiency in language had led him to meet important personalities and he became involved in momentous and historic events:

Year

Description

1905

Kazi Dawa Samdup was part of the Maharaja of Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal’s entourage when he visited Calcutta to meet the British heir apparent, the Prince and Princess of Wales.

1910

When His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama visited India, Kazi Dawa Samdup acted as an interpreter during the meeting between His Holiness and Sir Charles Bell. At the time, Sir Charles Bell was the British Political Officer for Bhutan, Sikkim, and Tibet.

1911

Kazi Dawa Samdup accompanied the Maharaja of Sikkim when he visited the Imperial Durbar in New Delhi to mark the succession of King George V as the Emperor of India.

1912

The Crown Prince of Sikkim, Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal, requested Kazi Dawa Samdup to accompany his spiritual sister and confidante, Alexandra David-Neel, to meet the 13th Dalai Lama in Kalimpong. In this case, Kazi Dawa Samdup acted in the capacity of an interpreter, a guide, and Alexandra David-Neel’s teacher of the Tibetan language.

On April 15, 1912, while they were waiting for the 13th Dalai Lama, both Alexandra David-Neel and Kazi Dawa Samdup met with Japanese explorer Ekai Kawaguchi.

1914

During the historic Simla Convention to discuss the Indo-Tibetan border, Kazi Dawa Samdup acted as the interpreter to Sir Charles Bell. The resulting treaty was signed by representatives from India, Tibet, and China.

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup was part of the Maharaja of Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal’s entourage when he visited Calcutta to meet the British heirs apparent, the Prince and Princess of Wales. The persons inside the white circle are the Maharaja and Maharani of Sikkim.

Kazi Dawa Samdup was part of the Maharaja of Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal’s entourage when he visited Calcutta to meet the British heirs apparent, the Prince and Princess of Wales. The persons inside the white circle are the Maharaja and Maharani of Sikkim.

In addition to the above, several notable westerners studied and corresponded with Kazi Dawa Samdup such as:

  • Sir John Woodroffe – A British orientalist who introduced westerners to yogic practice and Hindu philosophy
  • Evans-Wentz – An American anthropologist and writer
  • Alexandra David-Neel – The French-Belgian woman explorer and writer
  • Sir Charles Bell – A Tibetologist and British Political Officer for Bhutan, Sikkim, and Tibet, who was so impressed with Kazi Dawa Samdup’s knowledge that he referred to him as ‘that tower of learning’
Tibetan Delegation at Hastings House, Calcutta, 16 March 1910. The third person standing from the left on the back is presumable Kazi Dawa Samdup. Sir Charles Bell (third from the left) is seated next to the Dalai Lama (fourth from the left)

Tibetan Delegation at Hastings House, Calcutta, 16 March 1910. The third person standing from the left on the back is presumably Kazi Dawa Samdup. Sir Charles Bell (third from the left) is seated next to the Dalai Lama (fourth from the left).

Left: Sir Charles Bell and the 13th Dalai Lama with Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal in Calcutta - When His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama visited India, Kazi Dawa Samdup acted as an interpreter during the meeting between His Holiness and Sir Charles Bell.  Right: Alexandra David-Neel and her adopted son, Lama Aphur Yongden, with Ekai Kawaguchi - On April 15, 1912, when they were waiting for the 13th Dalai Lama, both Alexandra David-Neel and Kazi Dawa Samdup met with the Japanese explorer, Ekai Kawaguchi.

Left: Sir Charles Bell and the 13th Dalai Lama with Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal in Calcutta – When His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama visited India, Kazi Dawa Samdup acted as an interpreter during the meeting between His Holiness and Sir Charles Bell.
Right: Alexandra David-Neel and her adopted son, Lama Aphur Yongden, with Ekai Kawaguchi – On April 15, 1912, when they were waiting for the 13th Dalai Lama, both Alexandra David-Neel and Kazi Dawa Samdup met with the Japanese explorer, Ekai Kawaguchi.

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup According to Alexandra David-Neel

Alexandra David-Neel (1868 – 1969)

Alexandra David-Neel (1868 – 1969)

While most of the personalities who were acquainted with Kazi Dawa Samdup praised his language skills or his knowledge of Buddhism, Alexandra David-Neel, who had the opportunity to spend time with Kazi Dawa Samdup when he was serving as her guide in 1912, provided the most intimate portrait of his character in her book Magic and Mystery in Tibet.

According to Alexandra David-Neel, Kazi Dawa Samdup was strongly devoted to his teacher, Tshampa Norbu, and was attracted to mysticism and supernatural power. However, this passion was often interrupted by the need to earn his living.

Dawasandup was an occultist and even, in a certain way, a mystic. He sought for secret intercourse with the Dâkinîs and the dreadful gods hoping to gain supernormal powers. Everything that concerned the mysterious world of beings generally invisible strongly attracted him, but the necessity of earning his living made it impossible for him to devote much time to his favourite study.

David-Neel, Alexandra. Magic and Mystery in Tibet. Dover Publications, 1971. Print.

He was also an avid reader who carried books wherever he went. When he was reading his books, he would forget where he was, lost in his own thought. His passion for mysticism, reading, translation, and long conversations with Tibetan Buddhist lamas often distracted him from his secular job as the headmaster of Bhutia Boarding School in Gangtok.

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup: The Translator and the Writer

Throughout his life, Kazi Dawa Samdup was passionate about propagating Buddhist teachings outside of Tibet. He used his language skills to translate important Buddhist texts, but his work was not without challenges. While Kazi Dawa Samdup had the ability to translate complicated Buddhist texts, the translated version required editing, and the expenses related to the publication of these texts were high. However, he was able to overcome these challenges by working together with western writers who also had a deep interest in Buddhism, such as Evans-Wentz and Sir John Woodroffe.

 

Collaboration with Evans-Wentz

Another picture of Kazi Dawa Samdup with Evans-Wentz

A picture of Kazi Dawa Samdup with Evans-Wentz taken in 1919

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Kazi Dawa Samdup’s wish to bring Buddhism out of Tibet was fulfilled when he met with Evans-Wentz. Evans-Wentz was a graduate of Stanford University and Oxford University, where he studied religion, history, philosophy, and Celtic mythology. Evans-Wentz’s interest in Tibetan Buddhism brought him to Darjeeling, India in 1919, where upon his arrival he met with British Officer Major W.L. Campbell, who gave him a copy of Bardo Thodol (Liberation through Hearing during the Intermediate State), a sacred text discovered by Karma Lingpa, a 14th century Vajrayana Buddhist practitioner. According to the legend, Karma Lingpa discovered several sacred texts, including Bardo Thodol, on the peak of Mount Gampodar.

At the time Evans-Wentz had heard of Kazi Dawa Samdup, who worked in his capacity as interpreter to several well-known personalities such as His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama and Alexandra David-Neel, and decided to meet him at Gangtok. The two of them struck up a friendship driven by their mutual interest in Tibetan Buddhism and Karma Lingpa’s sacred text.

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Kazi Dawa Samdup had developed an interest in the subject of death since at least 1912, as revealed in Alexandra David-Neel’s Magic and Mystery in Tibet. Evans-Wentz offered to edit and bear the cost of publication and translation while they were collaborating.

For the next two months after meeting, Kazi Dawa Samdup and Evans-Wentz spent every morning working on the translation of what would be known as The Tibetan Book of the Dead. Unfortunately, after the two months passed, both Evans-Wentz and Kazi Dawa Samdup were occupied by their own affairs, and Evans-Wentz went to Swami Satyananda’s ashram to practice yoga. Evans-Wentz visited Kazi Dawa Samdup one more time in 1920 before the latter took the position of lecturer at the University of Calcutta.

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In 1927, five years after Kazi Dawa Samdup’s passing, Oxford University Press published The Tibetan Book of the Dead, and it was a success. The book was considered the first reliable translation of Tibetan Buddhist scripture, and by 1950, the book had been translated into many other European languages, and gained further acceptance in the scientific community. Famous Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, who wrote a foreword to the second edition, acknowledged that The Tibetan Book of the Dead gave him inspiration in his work.

Evans-Wentz would continue to publish another three books translated by Kazi Dawa Samdup: Tibet’s Great Yogi Milarepa in 1928, the Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines in 1935, and The Tibetan Book of the Great Liberation in 1954. In the preface of the book Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines, Evans-Wentz referred to Kazi Dawa Samdup as his teacher, stating that their aims had been to record a series of carefully-made translations of texts and orally transmitted traditions and teachings, which at the time had been almost unknown in occidental countries.

 

Collaboration with Sir John Woodroffe

Sir John Woodroffe (1865 – 1936)

Sir John Woodroffe (1865 – 1936)

Sir John Woodroffe (1865 – 1936) was a British orientalist who first met with Kazi Dawa Samdup when he was working as the interpreter for His Excellency Lochen Satra, the Tibetan dignitary to the Government of India.

Upon obtaining permission from his teacher, Tshampa Norbu, to translate the Demchog Tantra in 1916, Kazi Dawa Samdup collaborated with Sir John Woodroffe on this book. In 1919, the resulting book, titled Shrichakrasambhara Tantra: A Buddhist Tantra (Dem-chog Tantra), was published by Luzac & Co., London & Thacker, and Spink & Co., Calcutta. The book does not contain the Cakrasamvara Tantra, but is the translation of Chakrasamvara sadhana.

Sir John Woodroffe acknowledged the qualifications of Kazi Dawa Samdup in the foreword for The Tibetan Book of the Dead, referring to his various appointments, Evans-Wentz’s references, and Kazi Dawa Samdup’s high proficiency in both English and Tibetan.

 

Other Works

Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee (1864 – 1924)

Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee (1864 – 1924)

In addition to translating sacred Buddhist texts, Kazi Dawa Samdup wrote short articles for the Asiatic Society of Bengal. In 1919, Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee (1864 – 1924), the then Vice Chancellor of the University of Calcutta, appointed Kazi Dawa Samdup as the Professor of Tibetan Language at the university. During his tenure there, Kazi Dawa Samdup compiled and published An English-Tibetan Dictionary: Containing a Vocabulary of Approximately Twenty Thousand Words with their Tibetan Equivalents. This dictionary also contains some words in the Sikkimese and Dzongkha languages. In 1919, The Baptist Mission Press published the dictionary.

It is said that among his many accomplishments, Kazi Dawa Samdup was also a talented painter of portrait and religious paintings.

 

Unpublished Works (completed)

Kazi Dawa Samdup also left behind unpublished works:

Maharani of Sikkim Yeshay Dolma who wrote the History of Sikkim together with her husband, Sir Thutob Namgyal - click to enlarge

Maharani of Sikkim Yeshay Dolma who wrote the History of Sikkim together with her husband, Sir Thutob Namgyal – click to enlarge

History of Bhutan – This book is the translation of a Bhutanese text titled Rje Mkhan chen X Bstan ’dzin chos rgyal (18th century), Lho’i Chos ’byung Bstan pa Rin po che’i ’Phro mthud ’Jam mgon Smon mtha’i ’Phreng ba. A copy of History of Bhutan is currently kept in the British Library. Another version of this work, titled A History of Bhutan from the 7th Century A.D. to the 18th Century A.D., has been seen in the Widener Library of Harvard University. This book is created from a copy formerly owned by Sir Charles Bell, with photocopy documents made by the Tibetologist E. Gene Smith in 1962.

History of Sikkim – This book was originally written by the Maharaja of Sikkim Sir Thutob Namgyal and his consort, Maharani Yeshay Dolma, in 1908 and later translated by Kazi Dawa Samdup. The current copy is preserved in the British Library in London.

 

Later Life and Death

Calcutta c.a., 1920s – The hot and humid weather of Calcutta caused Kazi Dawa Samdup’s health to deteriorate, and he passed away on March 22, 1922 at Calcutta General Hospital.

Calcutta c.a., 1920s – The hot and humid weather of Calcutta caused Kazi Dawa Samdup’s health to deteriorate. On March 22, 1922, Kazi Dawa Samdup passed away at the Calcutta General Hospital.

The hot and humid weather of Calcutta caused Kazi Dawa Samdup’s health to deteriorate. On March 22, 1922, Kazi Dawa Samdup passed away at the Calcutta General Hospital. He was 54 years old. One of Kazi Dawa Samdup’s friends, Profulla Shankar Sen mentioned in his obituary that he was an early riser, a hard worker who worked himself to an early death, simple in his bearing, and enjoyed long discourses with learned people. Kazi Dawa Samdup was survived by his wife, son, T.T. Samdup, and daughter, Dorji Budar.

 

List of Books & Writings by Kazi Dawa Samdup

 

Selected Books translated by Kazi Dawa Samdup and edited by Evans-Wentz for Download

 

Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines (click on the image to download in PDF form)

Tibet’s Great Yogi Milarepa (click on the image to download in PDF form)

The texts above were sourced from legitimate book-hosting services offering these texts for free download. They are made available here for purely educational, non-commercial purposes.

 

List of Books Translated or Written by Kazi Dawa Samdup

Book cover

Book title

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Shrîchakrasambhâra Tantra: A Buddhist Tantra (Dem-chog Tantra), (Luzac & CO., London and Thacker, Spink & Co., Calcutta, 1918-1919)

Kazi27

An English-Tibetan Dictionary: Containing a Vocabulary of Approximately Twenty Thousand Words with their Tibetan Equivalents, (Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, 1919)

Kazi22

The Tibetan Book of the Dead, (Oxford University Press, 1927)

Kazi23

Tibet’s Great Yogi Milarepa, (Oxford University Press, 1928)

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Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines, (Oxford University Press, 1935)

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The Tibetan Book of the Great Liberation, (Oxford University Press, 1954)

 

Kazi Dawa Samdup as Contributor to Other Periodicals

No. Article Title Periodicals Period
1. Prayer of Choje Tsang-pa Gyare, called the Religions Wishes (Gejor-dumpa) Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, vol. 8. P. 149 – 160 1912
2. Alexander Scott collection. G.B. Gordon, The Alexander Scott Collection of Art Objects from Tibet and Nepal
Note: The article includes information from Tibetan informant of Darjeeling “Dousand Up” (i.e., Kazi Dawa Samdup)
The Museum Journal [Philadelphia], vol. 5, no. 2. P. 55-57 June 1914
3. A Tibetan Funeral Prayer Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, n.s. vol. 12. P. 147 – 159 1916

 


 

Addendum 1: An Account of Kazi Dawa Samdup’s Relationship with His Teacher

Extracted from: Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines as translated by Kazi Dawa Samdup and edited by Evans-Wentz

Page 105

Page 105 – click to enlarge

Page 106

Page 106 – click to enlarge

Page 107 - click to enlarge

Page 107 – click to enlarge

The text above is easily available on the internet for free download. They are not being used for any commercial purposes. They are being used for educational purposes only.

 

Addendum 2: Alexandra David-Neel’s Account of Kazi Dawa Samdup

Extracted from: Magic and Mystery in Tibet by Alexandra David-Neel

Page 13 - click to enlarge

Page 13 – click to enlarge

Page 14 - click to enlarge

Page 14 – click to enlarge

Page 15 - click to enlarge

Page 15 – click to enlarge

The text above was sourced from legitimate book-hosting services offering the text for free download. It is made available here for purely educational, non-commercial purposes.

 
Sources:

  • David-Neel, Alexandra. Magic and Mystery in Tibet. Dover Publications, 1971. Print.
  • Samdup, Kazi Dawa and Evans-Wentz, W.Y. Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines. Oxford University Press, 1967. Print.
  • Dorjee, Pema Wangchuk. S. (2008) S. Mahinda Thero: The Sikkimese Who Gave Lankans Their Freedom Song. Bulletin of Tibetology. Pp. 139 – 154
  • Taylor, Kathleen. Sir John Woodroffe, Tantra and Bengal: ‘An Indian Soul in a European Body?’ RoutledgeCurzon, 2001. Print.
  • Samdup, Dasho P.W. A Brief Biography of Kazi Dawa Samdup (1868 – 1922). Bulleting of Tibetology. Pp. 155 – 158
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kazi_Dawa_Samdup
  • http://rywiki.tsadra.org/index.php/Lama_Kazi_Dawa_Samdup
  • https://www.tibetsun.com/features/2016/11/14/kazi-dawa-samdup-and-tibet-in-the-twilight-zone
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma_Lingpa
  • http://www.rigpawiki.org/index.php?title=Karma_Lingpa
  • http://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Walter_Evans-Wentz
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Tashi

 
For more interesting information:

 

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7 Responses to Kazi Dawa Samdup: a Pioneering Translator of Tibetan Buddhist Texts

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  1. Samfoonheei on Feb 28, 2020 at 3:51 pm

    Inspiring ……. Sikkimese Lama who played an important part in Tibetan Buddhism. Kazi Dawa Samdup a former school headmaster was best known as one of the first translators of important works of Tibetan Buddhism . Translating Tibetan texts into the English language and was a pioneer central to the transmission of Buddhism in the West. During his lifetime, he had acted as the interpreter to well-known people due to his proficiency in the English and Tibetan languages. He did served kings, lamas, politicians, and explorers as well. His translation of Tibetan Buddhist texts have been reprinted a number of times and even translated into many languages. Although he passed away many years ago yet his legacy continues to live on.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this inspiring sharing of a GREAT Lama.

  2. KARMA CHODA BHUTIA on Feb 28, 2020 at 12:43 pm

    hello, sir. i am student of under graduate doing a research on biography of Qazi dawa samdup and i found this page and i am lucky enough that i got a lot of information for my studies, but i find the wrong image of pemayangtse monastery, the imge which you have mentioning pemayangtse monastery is actually a another monastery nearby pemayangtse but in actual its not. i hope you will correct it as soon as you get this message. If possible i personally wants to met you. THANKYOU YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB…

    • Valentina Suhendra on Mar 30, 2020 at 4:45 pm

      Dear Karma Choda Bhutia

      Thank you for your comment and feedback. The picture of the Pemayangtse Monastery has been replaced.

      Best wishes on your research

      Sincerely
      Valentina

      • Karma choda bhutia on Mar 30, 2020 at 4:58 pm

        Am so glad too see the real picture of pemayangtse. Thanks for your response.

  3. Samfoonheei on Nov 11, 2018 at 1:22 pm

    Inspiring Lama Kazi Dawa Samdup best known as one of the first translators of important works of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in Sikkim , an ancestor of the Sikkim royal family and was a student of the great learned lama, Lopen Tshampa Norbu. He did received many mystic initiations from Lopen Tsampa Norbu. Through his education, he was well versed in three different languages such as English, Tibetan, and Sanskrit. Due to his proficiency in languages, he was a pioneer inducing of Buddhism to the West and did involved in momentous and historic events. He did played a significant role in relations between British India and Tibet. He did helped to translate a number of Tibetan Buddhist texts which were reprinted multiple times and translated into many languages since their first publication. Interesting read of a great translator , writer, interpreter and headmaster to name afew.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting sharing.

  4. Wai Meng Wan on Dec 25, 2017 at 7:43 pm

    Reading about all such stories of translators, it seems the Dharma has a life of its own as it worked its way to the West and the rest of the modern and developed world. I salute all these translators who made the teachings available to the rest of humanity of having translated it to the dominant language of today, and from that to other languages as well.

  5. Dorji Penjore on Sep 24, 2017 at 8:32 am

    This is an informative and interesting article.

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  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:31 PM
    Venerable Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. Well respected and loved as a man of great wisdom, he was also instrumental in establishing Theravada Buddhism in the West. Interesting life story, how he chose to leave the settled monastic life and became a wandering ascetic. Walking across Thailand, lived in forests, caves and cremation grounds while learning from the meditation monks of the Forest of various monasteries. He wandered through the countryside in quest of quiet and secluded places for developing meditation. He even lived in tiger and cobra infested jungles, using reflections on death to penetrate to the true meaning of life. After years of wandering, Venerable Ajahn Chah established a monastery where he taught simple, practice-based form of meditation, and attracted a numerous of students including western foreigners. He was one of the greatest Dhamma teachers of the modern era. His wise teachings have continued to guide thousands of people along the path of Dharma. Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings of the Thai Forest Tradition gradually spread across all over the world. Several of Ajahn Chah’s Western students have since established monasteries throughout the world. Just in Thailand itself, there are more than 300 branch monasteries in Ajahn Chah’s tradition. Ven erable Ajahn Chah used his ill health as a teaching point, emphasizing that it was a living example of the impermanence of all things and reminded people to endeavour to find a true refuge within themselves. The legacy of Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings and legacy continues into the modern age.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/venerable-ajahn-chah-the-forest-monk.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:30 PM
    Wonderful blog written on the practice of Kalarupa for us to understand better. As an emanation of Manjushri, Kalarupa’s practice helps us to destroy ignorance and to develop wisdom overcoming our anger and suffering . Awesome Kalarupa manifested in multiple forms to help sentient beings who personifies enlightenment by the conquest of anger. Kalarupa also regard as one of the three main Dharma protectors of the Gelugpa is extremely fierce and ugly, and tames all kinds of spiritual ugliness. The fierceness of his iconography teaches us to remind ourselves that all the causes and effects of anger arising from ignorance are dreadful and distorted.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Antionette for this detailed sharing,

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/kalarupa.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:27 PM
    Nepal is a very spiritual country, having a huge Dorje Shugden mural in Kathmandu, is indeed a big achievement for Kechara. Located on Charkhal Road in Dilli Bazaar, the mural can be found midway between our two Dorje Shugden chapels which are in Putalisadak and Chabahil. It is also very close to one of Kathmandu’s largest shopping malls. Many locals , tourist will be able to connect them to a powerful deity that is so closely associated with their culture. Well the mural not only beautiful but also full of symbolism and everyone merely by seeing it is blessed. Thanks to those talented artists and generous sponsors making it a success.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/travel/spectacular-dorje-shugden-mural-in-kathmandu-nepal.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:24 PM
    All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. Letting go helps us to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. A reminder for us all to go of attachment and meditating on impermanence and emptiness. We are to relinquish the domination of our ego and its habits to transform ourselves. A great reminder not to waste our previous life.
    Quoted Ceasing to do evil, Cultivating the good, Purifying the heart .
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing such a meaningful teachings with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/pointing-the-staff-at-the-old-man.html
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:43 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail. com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:42 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail.com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • lee
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 07:06 PM
    We are members of the Buddhist Temple in Taman Desa Jaya, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur and we have been issued membership by the president (DATUK YIP KUM FOOK), we are very sad because we are the foundation of this Temple

    Now we can know who is always messing with people, and he always cheats money and women, he even uses Buddhism to find money.

    Also, need to be careful with his brother-in-law (Simon Low Kok Meng) because he is a spy (CID) for DATUK YIP KUM FOOK and we will write some letters to AGONG SULTAN IBRAHIM IBN ALMARHUM SULTAN ISKANDAR as soon as possible.

    From Jesmond Yap, Kepong Baru…Kuala Lumpur
  • Phoenix the Shaman Elder
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 01:40 AM
    The matriarchal cultures of the grandmothers have specific symbolism of animism shamanism, such as the horse, especially the blue horse, and the deer. These are two main symbols of a shaman woman and you can find them in many cultural folk lore, especially the Russian, Slavic, Siberian, Nordic, Finland, and Norway. It’s nice to see the Matriarchal Shaman Animism diety represented in Chinese.
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:59 PM
    An inspiring act of a selfless Lama feeding strays whether its night or day. Truly an example for us all to feed those lonely strays . Yes I do agree compassion starts with feeding strays. Reading this blog again to refresh myself to do more. Strays animals generally lead a life of poor welfare on the street. Feeding strays is a compassionate act.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Anila for this sharing.


    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/rinpoche-through-my-eyes-compassion-starts-with-feeding-strays
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:56 PM
    nteresting revisit this blog again as truly inspiring reading over and over again . There’s so many inspiring nuns and female practitioner coming from different back ground, leading a more spiritual life. They are practitioners dedicated their life to religious observance and their path is illuminated by the light of compassion. Going against all odds to become one. Their devotion radiates like a thousand stars in the night sky. Here at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Pahang we too have inspiring practitioners .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/inspiring-nuns-and-female-practitioners.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    H E Tsem Rinpoche’s Sungbum project aim to preserve the teachings and practices that have been passed from teacher to disciple in an unbroken line beginning with Lama Tsongkhapa himself . History has taught us the importance of preserving Buddha’s stainless teachings. Its important to preserve and safeguard the Buddhist tradition for future generations.
    Tsem Rinpoche is a clear and effective teacher where his stories and teachings are endlessly entertaining and inspiring. The preservation is very much needed. We are so fortunate given a chance to be involved in such a meritorious project .
    Thank you.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/the-tsem-rinpoche-sungbum-project.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    Demons are disembodied spirits, supernatural being or spirit and unseen beings. We know they do exist and I believe they do. They have no physical form to them whatsoever. Demons do definitely exist. They are intelligent beings who are evil malicious spirits and are all dangerous entities. Valak is not to be summoned capriciously by anyone as they are dangerous beings when we invoke them having to face a heavy consequence. There are spiritual practices that we can ask for help a ritual of the wrathful Manjushri in the form of Trakze. Having a doing the practice daily without fail, consistently, as this Trakze practice has been proven to be efficacious to break the hold the Valak and other spirits. All thanks to our Guru bringing this practice to Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Malaysia.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing for us to understand better.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/valak-the-conjuring-2-demon.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:53 PM
    Wow ,reading all these powerful quotes had me realised much better of giving even I have little. May H E Tsem Rinpoche’s sincere advice to reach the far shore of liberation to everyone reading this blog. The most truly generous people are those who give silently without asking any in return. There is no exercise better than reaching and lifting people up. A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal. Well creating and lighting for others we naturally light our own way. Helping others especially those unfortunate ones, make us feel more positive about our own circumstances.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing all these powerful quotes.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/the-power-of-giving-18-quotes-from-tsem-rinpoche.html
  • Aarati Bhatt
    Wednesday, Feb 28. 2024 12:47 AM
    I have tried mine and my friend’s horoscope and it results same in both of our case, and not just that I have tried this on various friends and this horoscope is showing same for maximum date of birth, I think this is a bug.
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Jan 4. 2024 04:11 PM
    Lama Tsongkhapa was an influential Tibetan Buddhist monk, philosopher and tantric yogi, whose activities led to the formation of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism . Lama Tsongkhapa was hailed as the second Buddha by contemporary Buddhist masters of his time. Famous for reviving Buddhism in Tibet and revered for elevating the Dharma to all its present glory. Hence having a 12 ft Lama Tsongkhapa Statue at new Kechara Gompa (Prayer Hall) is indeed a blessing. Its truly beautiful. Merely by looking at it is a blessing .
    Thank you Rinpoche and team effort making it possible.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/10-ft-tsongkapa-here.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
4 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
4 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
4 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
4 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
4 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
4 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
4 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
4 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
4 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
4 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
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5 years ago
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At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
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At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
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See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
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Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
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Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
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Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
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Sacred Vajra Yogini
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Sacred Vajra Yogini
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Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
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Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
5 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
5 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
5 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
5 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
5 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
5 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
5 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
5 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
5 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
5 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
5 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
5 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
5 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
5 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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CHAT PICTURES

And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
2 days ago
And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 days ago
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
6 days ago
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
7 days ago
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 days ago
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 days ago
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
7 days ago
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
2 months ago
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
3 months ago
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
3 months ago
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/\_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
3 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
5 months ago
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
5 months ago
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
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