Back when the Dorje Shugden ban was first enforced in 1996, few thought that they would live to see the day when the ban was lifted. There have however, been many signs in recent years that the ban may soon be coming to an end.

These began as far back as 2016, when His Holiness the Dalai Lama said Dorje Shugden does no harm. It has continued into 2020, with His Holiness saying that it would be permissible to rely on Dorje Shugden as a land deity. As recently as June 2021, His Holiness has said that he was wrong to have banned Dorje Shugden.

For those familiar with the ban, the shift in His Holiness’s stance is undeniably clear.

In the early years of the ban, the persecution of Dorje Shugden practitioners was horrific. Families were split, marriages were broken up, children were bullied in school, people were denied medical treatment and monks were expelled from monasteries, but to name a few examples of discrimination against Shugden worshippers.

And in those early days of the ban, as the persecution of Shugden practitioners began to pick up steam, a few brave people grouped to form the first resistance against the ban. They called themselves the Dorjee Shugden Devotees’ Charitable and Religious Society, otherwise known as the Delhi Society.

Not only did the Delhi Society preserve important works and rituals on Dorje Shugden, but they also launched legal appeals against the ban, and worked hard to raise awareness of its illegality. In doing so, they risked their safety, their personal opportunities and their own welfare to protect the lineage. Their courageous actions proved to people that it was possible to resist and stand up against the public relations behemoth that is the Tibetan leadership, because there is strength and power in standing up for the truth.

And the truth is that Dorje Shugden is an enlightened being, that everyone deserves religious freedom and no one should be persecuted on the basis of their faith.

The 25^th anniversary of the Delhi Society

2021 marks the 25^th anniversary of the Delhi Society. In light of this, various pujas have been advised by the highest lamas of our tradition to celebrate this auspicious occasion, and to dedicate the vast amount of merits that have been accumulated over the years in the struggle to speak up for the truth.

His Holiness the 101^st Gaden Tripa Jetsun Lungrik Namgyal Rinpoche, His Holiness Kyabje Pabongka Chocktrul Rinpoche and His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche have each recommended pujas to be done. The four main aims of these pujas are:

1. To dedicate everyone’s efforts in bringing our lineage this far, where a light can finally be seen at the end of a 25-year struggle
2. To generate and dedicate merits towards the swift return of the lamas and practitioners who we have lost in recent years
3. To dedicate merits towards the long lives of our lamas who remain with us, and to create the causes for their works to grow
4. To generate and dedicate merits for all practitioners’ wishes to be fulfilled, for their obstacles to be pacified, and for them to find happiness

Pujas from H.H. the 101^st Gaden Tripa

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• To follow the advice of H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Chocktrul Rinpoche and H.H. Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche
• To carry out a Great Prayer Festival (Monlam Chenmo) for a minimum of one day, in the tradition established by the great master Je Tsongkapa

Pujas from H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Chocktrul Rinpoche

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• Sixteen Arhats puja, 1,000 times
• Reciting the Manjushri-nama-samgiti, 10,000 times
• Reciting the sungbum (collected works) of Je Tsongkhapa and his two spiritual sons
• Guru Puja with 1,000 Ganachakra Tsog offerings
• General Dharmapala Puja
• Dharmapala Dorje Shugden puja with 1,000 Ganachakra Tsog offerings
• Smoke offerings
• Hang prayer flags, as many as possible

Pujas from H.H. Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche

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• Reciting the sungbum (collected works) of Je Tsongkhapa and his two spiritual sons
• Reciting the 8000-verse Prajnaparamita Sutra, 20 times
• Reciting the Suvarnaprabhasottama Sutra
• Peaceful fire puja of Solitary Hero Yamantaka, 10 times
• Sixteen Arhats puja
• Guru Puja with Ganachakra Tsog offerings
• Gyabshi ritual
• Dharmapala Dorje Shugden puja

Grand Prayer Festival on International Dorje Shugden Day

This grand prayer festival will begin on August 24, 2021 which is the International Dorje Shugden Day that is celebrated annually all over the world. It is expected that it will take a few days for the pujas to be completed, and they will be conducted by our precious sangha who have dedicated their lives to upholding the Dorje Shugden lineage, in spite of the obstacles they have been met with.

These important rituals will be held at major Dorje Shugden monasteries around the world, including:

• Shar Gaden Monastery (India)
• Serpom Monastery (India)
• Phelgyeling Monastery (Nepal)
• Segyu Monastery (Nepal)
• Samten Choeling Monastery (India)
• Kundeling Monastery (India)

Over 40 Dorje Shugden organisations around the world have come together in service of the lineage to contribute towards the fulfilment of our high lamas’ instructions. This means that no matter where you are in the world, you can still contribute and take part in this momentous celebration.

It has been a quarter of a century since the Dorje Shugden ban was first enforced, marking the start of two decades of suffering for Shugden worshippers everywhere. It has been 25 years of fighting, hoping, praying and begging for things to change. Now, as the tide seems to turn, it is finally time for us to rejoice and celebrate.

Official Announcement

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Official Announcements in Other Languages

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Advice from Lineage Lamas

བོད་ཡིག (Tibetan)

中文 (Chinese)

монгол хэл (Mongolian)

H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama

The Dalai Lama is easily one of the most recognized personalities in the world today. This is in part due to the plight of the Tibetan people after the Tibetan exodus of 1959, and in part due to the popular albeit incorrect view that the Dalai Lama is the most ‘attained’ and qualified Buddhist in the world. The Dalai Lama has been riding on the crest of his stardom as the most visible victim and refugee for decades. And this, coupled with his usefulness as India and the Western powers’ most effective thorn in the side of a rising China who threatens the global balance of power, has meant that the Dalai Lama has been left unfettered for over half a century.

Emboldened by the passivity of the nations of the world intoxicated by his charm, and empowered by his cult status, the Dalai Lama has progressively decimated the nation of the Tibetan people via a series of moves calculated to divide and subdue the only people who can puncture the Dalai Lama myth, the Tibetan people themselves led by the spiritual leaders of the various Tibetan Buddhist sects. We see how the Dalai Lama successfully split the Tibetan people via introducing confusion and schism into the community – the two Karmapas, the Dorje Shugden ban, the definition and direction of the ‘Tibetan Cause’ – rangzen or umaylam, and last but not least, by engaging in political gamesmanship with China, using the recognition of the 11^th Panchen Lama as a gambit. Next to the Dalai Lama, the Panchen Lama is regarded as the highest Tibetan lama in terms of status although they rank equally in terms of spiritual importance.

The Panchen Lama

The 10^th Panchen Lama had been a very important figure in Sino-Tibetan history and when the Dalai Lama escaped to India in 1959, it was the 10^th Panchen Lama who chose to remain in China to represent the Tibetan people, protect the Tibetan culture and act as an intermediary between the Tibetan people and their new overlords, the government of Mao Zedong. Initially seen as a traitor, he eventually won the hearts and trust of the Tibetan people by his defiance of Chinese government policies that he deemed to be unfair towards the Tibetans. And when the 10^th Panchen Lama openly voiced his opposition to the harsh treatment of the Tibetan people by Mao’s army, he was incarcerated.

The 10^th Panchen Lama (left) and the 14^th Dalai Lama (right)

When the 10^th Panchen Lama passed away, both China and the Dalai Lama hastened to claim the right to find his reincarnation. For China, finding and enthroning the next Panchen Lama would mean getting a handle on the control that steers the Tibetan psyche. For the Dalai Lama, it would mean denying China any legitimate opportunity to shape Tibetan thoughts and actions. Critics say that both intended to use religion as a political tool. When the Dalai Lama’s chosen candidate disappeared mysteriously, China recognized and enthroned a six-year-old boy, Gyaincain Norbu, who became Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu, the 11^th Panchen Lama.

If anyone could rival the 14^th Dalai Lama’s deistic hegemony, it would be the 11^th Panchen Lama as both have long been regarded as equals in terms of religious authority and this, and not political weight, is what moves the Tibetan people and adherents of Tibetan Buddhism. And so from Dharamsala, word quickly spread that the ‘Chinese Panchen Lama’ was a fake reincarnation and no more than a puppet of the Chinese government.

However, many who understand the divine nature of a Buddha’s mind or ‘life force’ (the Panchen Lama is long regarded as an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha) argue that no worldly maneuvers can outwit the passage of an enlightened being returning to resume his sacred work to lead all sentient beings out of suffering. In addition a high lama of the 10^th Panchen Lama’s caliber can manifest concurrent Body, Speech, Mind, Activity and Quality emanations.

Nevertheless, for over 20 years, the new Panchen Lama remained relatively low-key as the Dalai Lama continued to lord over the Tibetan Buddhist domain with his every word taken as secular law and celestial mandate. And in that time, the world turned a blind eye to the Dalai Lama’s tyranny that included the forced division of the Karma Kagyu sect, inciting violence to undermine events of religious leaders the Dalai Lama does not approve of, and unilaterally declaring the deity of a group of Buddhists the Dalai Lama opposes, to be a demon and its worshippers, outcasts who are to be denied even the most basic human rights.

However, a recent event in Tibet indicates that change is underway and that perhaps the reign of the 14^th Dalai Lama is coming to an end.

The Rise of the 11^th Panchen Lama

The Kalacakra Tantra, meaning the ‘Wheel of Time’ belongs to the highest yoga tantra and like all Tantras, is an esoteric practice given to only the most qualified practitioners. However, a unique feature of the Kalacakra Tantra is the geo-location of its mystical pure realm known as Shambala, which is believed to be on the planet Earth. By that virtue, the Kalacakra is believed to be a particularly efficacious practice that allows denizens of our planet to enter the mystical pure land of Shambala, and hence its popularity, usually drawing tens to hundreds of thousands of initiates.

The 11^th Panchen Lama arrives to commence the four-day Kalacakra event, the first in 60 years in China

News media reported that hundreds of thousands of Tibetans received the Kalacakra initiation from the 11^th Panchen Lama

Kalacakra initiations and teachings also happen to be the Buddhist event the 14^th Dalai Lama is especially known for. And whether by design or not, the masses drawn to the Dalai Lama’s Kalacakra initiations become bound by oath to obey the Dalai Lama and by default support his views and agendas.

And so, when it was announced that the 11^th Panchen Lama would be conducting a Kalacakra initiation in his summer palace, Dechen Kelsang Phodrang, in Shigatse within the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), it became clear that the Dalai Lama and his supporters saw what was in fact a victory for the Dharma, to be a matter of concern instead.

After weeks of preparation, the event commenced on 21 July 2016, a historic day since the last Kalacakra initiation conducted in China was 60 years ago, ironically by the 14^th Dalai Lama before his escape to India. The success of the Panchen Lama’s Kalacakra event cannot be understated and various media reported that the four-day occasion drew crowds of over 100,000 each day. Many braved long journeys to Shigatse to be present. In addition, many high lamas such as Nyetru Rinpoche, the young incarnation of the illustrious Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, and prominent lamas such as Lama Jampa Ngodup were in attendance.

A Problem for the Dalai Lama and CTA

If ever there was a need for evidence to show that the Dalai Lama’s government is more interested in personal gain than the welfare of the Tibetan people, then such evidence can be clearly seen in the way Dharamasala responded to this joyful affair.

Phayul.com, the CTA’s mouthpiece reported a few days before the event that:

The Chinese appointed Panchen Lama Gyaltsen Norbu regarded as the ‘fake Panchen’ by most Tibetans is set to give the foremost Buddhist teaching, the Kalachakra initiation or the ‘wheel of time’ teachings next week in Tashi Lhunpo monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lamas in Shigatse, Tibet.

And on the first day of the Panchen Lama’s Kalacakra initiation, Phayul.com reported:

The Tibetan Women Association, Students for a Free Tibet, Gu Chu Sum Movement and the National Democratic Party of Tibet (NDPT) today organized a ‘scarf offering ceremony’ near Tsuglakahang Temple, to a portrait of the Panchen Lama Gendun Choekyi Nyima recognized by the Dalai Lama.

Supporters of the CTA offering khatas to the empty throne of the Dalai Lama’s candidate for the seat of the Panchen Lama

Instead of rejoicing that hundreds of thousands of Tibetans would be blessed by this rare and highly propitious ritual, the CTA chose to turn it into an opportunity to slander the Panchen Lama. The CTA would rather Tibetans who have been refugees for over half a century and no closer to having legitimate citizenship anywhere, make offerings to an empty throne, than to rejoice in the good fortune of hundreds of thousands of their countrymen attending this Panchen Lama’s event.

Dharamsala regards the Panchen Lama as a ‘fake’ but completely disregards the fact that the person who is the 11^th Panchen Lama is also a monk, trained and qualified to give the very beneficial Kalacakra initiation. Clearly the CTA labels a lama good or bad depending on whether or not the lama toes the CTA’s political line, not by the lama’s individual qualities and spiritual attainments. This is patently wrong. Just because a lama does not vigorously agree with the CTA and the Dalai Lama’s politics does not disqualify him as a competent, practiced and attained monk and neither does it negate the blessings and power of Kalacakra. Neither the Dalai Lama nor the CTA can claim ownership of the Kalacakra initiation or indeed any part of the Dharma and neither can they insist on monopolizing any Buddhist rituals.

The fact that Dharamsala even attempted to, presumably under the instructions of the Dalai Lama, if not with his consent (seeing that nothing happens without the Dalai Lama’s approval) is a clear indication of their priorities and lack of sincere Buddhist values.

Moreover, it is a well-known belief that a fake or falsely recognized incarnation of a high lama will not posses the merits to occupy the high seat for long. He will simply not have the force and karmic puissance to hold that high position. And yet, we see the 11^th Panchen Lama growing in relevance and activity and displaying the demeanor of an enlightened being.

Neither can it be said that only Kalacakra initiations given by the Dalai Lama are potent. The line of Dalai Lamas as well as Panchen Lamas have historically been intimately involved in this tantra. Both have written important commentaries on Kalacakra and both are associated with various kings of Shambala, the pure realm of Kalacakra. Therefore, initiations given by the Panchen Lama are every bit as potent as those of the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama and CTA have also implied that the event is a manufactured gambit by the Chinese government to assert authority in Tibetan Buddhist matters, and that the sponsors of the Panchen Lama’s Kalacakra initiation do not have pure intentions.

However, the very same accusations can be levied at the Dalai Lama prolifically giving Kalacakra initiations (33 up until 2014, which is a lot more initiations than any other lamas have given in the past). A key aspect of the ritual is the initiate visualizing his or her rebirth as the child of the lama performing the initiation, or belonging to a sacred community with the lama as the central focus. Therefore it can also be said that in conducting as many Kalacakra rituals as the Dalai Lama has, he maintains his symbolic dominance over the people, very much in the same way the feudal lords of old Tibet did. In addition, how do we know what motivations all the Dalai Lama’s sponsors had?

The way the CTA attacks the Panchen Lama’s Kalacakra initiation is strange and incongruous when we try to see it from an assumption that it is the government of Avalokiteshvara. However, if we were to shift our assumption and view the CTA as nothing more than a corrupt and incompetent administration that hides behind the veil of the Dalai Lama’s supposed divinity, it all makes sense.

The Undoing of the Dalai Lama’s Government

The rise of the 11^th Panchen Lama is a bane to the Dalai Lama’s coterie for a number of reasons:

1. It is evidence that contrary to the CTA’s well-oiled propaganda machinery, China is not opposed to Buddhism and in fact carefully promotes it. China has always been firm that it does not oppose Tibetan Buddhism but it is the Dalai Lama’s splittist objectives and activities that often hijack Buddhist apparatus for its political purposes.At no point during the four-day Kalacakra initiation did the Panchen Lama or any Chinese official indulge in anti-Dalai Lama rhetoric or political agenda. On the other hand, it is common for the Dalai Lama to use teachings and sacred events to attack those whom he has decided to be enemies with, such as Dorje Shugden practitioners.
    
2. Neither do we see the supposedly ‘bigoted’ Chinese government impose conditions on anyone attending the Panchen Lama’s event. This is in stark contrast to the way the Dalai Lama’s camp forbids practitioners of Dorje Shugden to attend the Dalai Lama’s teachings and other spiritual events intended to liberate all beings;
    
3. It is also clear that since his official installation in 1995, the 11^th Panchen Lama has progressively gained the trust and devotion of the Tibetan people. The number of Tibetans who travelled great distances and withstood days of rain and cold to see and receive blessings from him means that the Panchen Lama has gained acceptance as the Dalai Lama’s significance to Tibetans in the Autonomous Region begins to wane. Over time, the young Panchen Lama’s popularity will only increase, as the aging and ailing Dalai Lama becomes a fading memory;
    
4. As the Panchen Lama’s activities grow, so does the number of his disciples and this is precisely what the Dalai Lama does not wish to see. Those who regard the Panchen Lama as their guru will surely oppose the Dalai Lama’s attacks on the Panchen Lama, on China and on worshippers of the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden, seeing that the line of Panchen Lamas have always believed in Dorje Shugden. It was after all the 4^th Panchen Lama Losang Chokyi Gyaltsen who recognized Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen (from whom Dorje Shugden arose), as Manjushri. To the Dalai Lama, this represents a drastic weakening of his use of religion as a political tool;
    
5. The Panchen Lama’s ascendancy is also seen as a problem for the CTA and the Dalai Lama. They have openly declared this Panchen Lama to be an impostor. And yet as this Panchen Lama gains popularity and the acceptance of the Tibetan people, the Dalai Lama may have to recant his accusations or lose the support of the Tibetan people, which he cannot afford to do. It would not be the first time the present Dalai Lama would go back on his decision, based on his supposed omniscience, as the Dalai Lama’s camp would have you believe.

A similar situation occurred with the 10^th Panchen Lama. The 14^th Dalai Lama had initially rejected the boy known as Gompo Tseten as the rightful incarnation of the 9^th Panchen Lama. Instead the 14^th Dalai Lama recognized another candidate as the 10^th Panchen Lama. However, Gompo Tseten had the support first of the Kuomintang and later the Chinese Communist Party. The 14^th Dalai Lama, concerned that the newly legitimized 10^th Panchen Lama might, with the support of China claim secular and religious control over Tibet, decided to quickly recognize the Chinese-endorsed 10^th Panchen Lama. The Dalai Lama’s first choice of the 10^th Panchen Lama was unceremoniously relegated to the position of ‘Panchen Otrul’ or merely an emanation of the Panchen Lama.

So, we see that the Dalai Lama has been proven to be quick to change his mind on whom he deems to be the ‘right’ incarnation of a high lama, depending on which way the political winds blow. As it turned out, the 10^th Panchen Lama whom the Dalai Lama initially denied performed tremendous deeds for the Tibetan people as well as the religion that left no doubts in anyone’s mind that he was an enlightened being;

The Dalai Lama’s persecutions of Shugden worshippers spread worldwide as monks and nuns, left with no other choice, took to the streets to protest the Dalai Lama’s religious ban

Tibetan lamas asking the Dalai Lama not to deny them their right to practice their beliefs. The world turns a blind eye.

The Dalai Lama and CTA’s days of unchecked abuse of power, corruption and manipulation of the Tibetan Buddhist religion is coming to an end. As it turns out, so is their persecution of Dorje Shugden practitioners. For over 20 years, the CTA has made every effort to destroy an ancient and holy Dharma Protector practice and in the process, they have distorted the Dharma, divided Tibetan Buddhists worldwide and forced countless Buddhist believers into confusion and broken samaya.

In the same time span, Dorje Shugden masters who, according to the Dalai Lama, should be burning in Avici Hell became learned and knowledgeable, matured, began manifesting the high attainments they had achieved in their previous lives and emerged as the powerful lamas they are.

His Holiness Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche, another rising Dorje Shugden lama

We see this in the rise of the 11^th Panchen Lama, H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche, H.E. Rabten Rinpoche, H.E. Zawa Tulku Rinpoche, H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche, Lama Michel Rinpoche, H.E. Achok Rinpoche and the return of great masters such as H.E. Domo Chocktrul Rinpoche and H.E. Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, all great masters who did not abandon their faith in Dorje Shugden. None of this was supposed to happen if the Dalai Lama is right about Dorje Shugden being a demon.

Concurrently we see the tremendous rise of China as a world super power. China had no interest or stake in the Dorje Shugden conflict until Dharamsala made it their business to get involved, by accusing Shugden believers worldwide to be covert agents of China trained to undermine the Dalai Lama. Combined, they represent the unraveling of the Dalai Lama’s CTA, not because Shugden lamas harbor any anti-CTA or anti-Tibetan agenda but because their mere presence exposes the CTA’s malicious agenda that it has carried out for decades.

H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama giving Kalacakra Initiation

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More Pictures from the Kalachakra Initiation

Both ordained Sangha and lay people traveled from great distances to attend the Kalacakra initiation given by H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama

Hundreds of thousands of people flocked to Tashi Lhunpo Monastery for the blessed event. For many, to receive the Kalacakra initiation from the Panchen Lama is a dream come true

A humble and yet grand canopy set up for H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama

H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama giving the Kalacakra initiation

H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama in Tantric dress

Thousands of Sangha were in attendance

H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama walking amongst the crowd

H.E. Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, who was recognized by H.H. the 11^th Panchen Lama, was also present

Many Sangha members took photos with their cellphones, to share this blessed event with as many people as they can

Panchen Lama Qoigyijabu Part 1

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Panchen Lama Qoigyijabu Part 2

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Panchen Lama Qoigyijabu Part 3

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Panchen Lama Qoigyijabu’s 20th Enthronement Anniversary

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[Editor's note: If you would like your Dharma centre's activities to be featured on DorjeShugden.com, please write in to our editors at ds@dorjeshugden.com]

USA & CANADA

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada, Toronto

Experiencing Limitless Possibilities: Retreat On Emptiness

Requirement: Open to Public
Date: 12 – 14 June 2015

By understanding the true nature of phenomena, we begin to realize the limitless possibilities this wisdom reveals. The rare teachings and meditations presented in this retreat will make this wisdom practical and accessible to all. This will allow us to transcend our actual state of limitation and actualize our own limitless potential.

For more information, visit http://kadampa.ca/coursesevents/retreats/

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada, Toronto

Guru Yoga Mandala Offerings Retreat

Requirement: Open to Public
Date: 18 – 22 June 2015

Engaging in the practice of Guru Yoga together with making mandala offerings creates a vast collection of merit through which we can receive the powerful blessings of our Spiritual Guide and fulfil our spiritual wishes.

For more information, visit http://kadampa.ca/coursesevents/retreats/

EUROPE

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Short Commentary of Guhyasamaja Tantra

Requirement: For HYT Practitioners only
Date: 30th May – 2nd June 2015

Short commentary of Guhyasamaja Tantra: Crystal Massage Method to Create the Pure Energy Form of Light and Nectar

The Guhyasamaja Tantra is one of the most important highest yoga tantras. Originally taught by Buddha Vajradhara to Mahasiddha Indrabhuti (the elder brother of Mahasiddha Laksminkara, a previous incarnation of Lama Gangchen) this lineage was the heart practice of Lama Tsongkhapa and many of his close disciples. Lama Tsongkhapa attained the gyulu – the deathless body of light at the time of his death as a result of this practice, and it is also the basis of the body mandala of the guru in the Lama Choepa guru yoga and the mandala of the World Peace Protector. Although the explanation of this tantra is very profound and extensive, we will try to summarise the most important practical points for those who wish to engage in the retreat in August, or who just wish to practice it.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/short-commentary-of-guhyasamaja-tantra-crystal-massage-method-to-create-the-pure-energy-form-of-light-and-nectar/?lang=en

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Black Manjushri Residential Retreat

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 5th – 7th June 2015

Black Manjushri is the wrathful healing form of Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom. This practice helps us to heal our deep inner negative emotions and the mental sufferings that arise due to problems or sickness; it is also a powerful antidote against the harm and disturbances caused by negative astrological influences.

There are numerous benefits to this meditative practice because above all, it supports us both mentally and physically, those suffering from so-called “incurable” diseases such as aids and cancer. It helps us to confront and deal with the negative emotions such as anger, depression, fear and denial that arise when we are challenged by serious health problems or when we are confronted with problems in our daily life.

The practice of Black Manjushri can also be used to purify the negative consequences that can be created, for example, when we perform a marriage ceremony, hold a cremation or cut down trees on astrologically inauspicious days. This practice gives us the opportunity to stop our energy flowing into the wrong path due to astrological influences.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/black-manjushri-residential-retreat/?lang=en

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

White Heruka of Long Life Initiation and Practice

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 13th – 14th June 2015

This is a very special long life practice which combines the blessings of Heruka with NgalSo Self Healing and a special method to gather around us the essence energy of the five elements. Receiving the Empowerment from Lama Ganchen, we will do a short retreat to develop familiarity with the practice.

Fundamentally this practice consists of:

1. Repossessing lost life energy
2. Regenerating degenerated life energy using pranayana to absorb the essence of the five elements, increasing our positive karma and renewing our vows.
3. Increasing our longevity by means of special long life pills.
4. Other very secret methods for a long life which will be revealed at the time.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/white-heruka-of-long-life-initation-and-pratice/?lang=en

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Tara NgalSo Chulen: A Powerful Cleansing Practice for Body and Mind

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 26th – 28th June 2015

During these days we shall purify body and mind by abstaining from gross food and nourishing ourselves with “the essence” pills made with flower petals and Himalayan minerals with a strong protein value and the capacity to regenerate body cells, as well as seasonal fruit juices. With this ancient method of Tibetan yogic and medical tradition, we purify ourselves of toxins accumulated through incorrect diet, chemically treated, refined or genetically modified food, excessive alcohol, tobacco etc. thus regaining the natural equilibrium of body and mind.

Through this physical purification, our mind becomes free of impure energy. As a result, uncontrolled negative emotions like excessive desire, anger, anxiety, stress and frustrations calm down and we feel a state of well-being and joy.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/tara-ngalso-chulen/?lang=en

ASIA

Kadampa Meditation Centre Hong Kong

Blessing Empowerment of Green Tara & Commentary

Requirement: Open to Public
Date: 19 – 21 June 2015

Blessing Empowerment of Green Tara & Commentary to the Practice of The Transference of Consciousness (Powa) Practice of Arya Tara with Gen Kelsang Tonglam

Tara is our Spiritual mother. When we are young we turn to our worldly mother for help. She protects us, cares for us and teaches us worldly skills. In the same way, during our spiritual growth, we need to turn to Holy Mother Tara. Renowned as the swiftest of the Buddhas, Tara will protect us from all outer and inner fears during our spiritual journey. In particular, during this course, Gen Tonglam will share with us the instructions of Powa Practice of Arya Tara.

Through this simple but extremely profound practice, Mother Tara will guide us away from the sufferings or ordinary appearance of this life to a Buddha’s Pureland without having to abandon this present body. This is a practical method that we can apply in our daily life and at the time of death in order to attain the Pureland of Dharmakaya.

For more information, visit http://www.meditation.hk/en/courses/East-Asian-Dharma-Celebration-2015

[Editor's note: If you would like your Dharma centre's activities to be featured on DorjeShugden.com, please write in to our editors at ds@dorjeshugden.com]

USA & CANADA

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada, Toronto

The Supreme Practice of Loving Kindness – Empowerment of Buddha Maitreya

Requirement: Contact Centre
Date: 1 – 5 May 2015

The annual Canadian Festival is an opportunity for new practitioners and old, from across the country, to gather together to receive practical spiritual advice in our National Kadampa temple. This year, Gen-la Kelsang Khyenrab, retired General Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition, will grant the empowerment of the Buddha of Loving Kindness, Buddha Maitreya and help us to deepen this peaceful state of mind in our hearts. He will also teach us more about how to lead a life of a Modern Bodhisattva – someone who is inspired and finds joy in helping others.

For more information, visit http://kadampafestivals.ca/program/program

EUROPE

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

The Alchemy of Enlightenment, The Meditation of the 5 Supreme Healers and 5 Great Mothers

Requirement: Contact Centre
Date: 1 – 3 May 2015

The 5 Father Buddhas and 5 Mother Buddhas are a symbol of the complete purification of our body and mind. If we had nothing similar with a buddha, we could not hope to become one, but fortunately we have a buddhanature – the potential for change if we apply the right causes and conditions and the raw materials, our present body and mind. Through the alchemical process of Ngalso Tantric Self Healing and other highest yoga tantras, we can transform our five elements and our fear, materialism, anger desire and ignorance into ten pure crystal non-dual energies and achieve inner peace, happiness and wellbeing for ourselves and others as well as healing the wounded environment.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/initation-and-commentary-of-the-five-supreme-healer-and-the-five-great-mother-of-the-five-elements/?lang=en

Rabten Choeling

Transmission of Lamrim and Teachings on Guru-Puja

Requirement: The Guru-Puja teaching. Please note that these teachings can only be attended by disciples who have received the Yamantaka initiation by Venerable Trijang Choktul Rinpoche.
Date: 19 May 2015 – 16 June 2015

We will have the extraordinary opportunity to receive teachings and transmissions in the month of Saga Dawa. During the first two weeks, Venerable Geshe Buga will give the word-transmissions of the eight great Lamrim commentaries. During the following weeks, Venerable Gonsar Rinpoche will teach on the Guru-Puja.

For more information, visit http://www.rabten.eu/eventsSwiss_en.htm

Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK

Medicine Buddha Empowerment and Teachings on Healing the Mind

Requirement: Open to all
Date: 22 – 27 May 2015

For centuries, people have found in Kadampa Buddhism simple methods to solve their daily problems, experience a deep and lasting happiness and help others to do the same. These powerful methods are available to us today in the form of modern Kadampa Buddhism, which is a special presentation designed by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche.

Through these practices we can discover a deep inner peace, overcome problems and difficulties with a happy mind and realize the full potential of our human life.

For more information, visit http://kadampafestivals.org/spring

Discover the ideal place to get away from it all: relax and be inspired by the many interesting and exciting programmes of Je Tsongkapa’s tradition offered in many Shugden centres around the world this March.

[Editor's note: If you would like your Dharma centre's activities to be featured on DorjeShugden.com, please write in to our editors at ds@dorjeshugden.com]

USA & CANADA

Florida Dharma Celebration

Prajnaparamita Empowerment

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 6 – 8 March 2015

During this special event, we will receive the blessing empowerment of Buddha Prajnaparamita, the Female Buddha of Wisdom, from Gen Kelsang Jampa, the Eastern US National Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition. An empowerment is a beautiful blessing and guided meditation that enables us to create a special connection with an enlightened being.

Join the Florida Kadampa Buddhist community for a weekend of guided meditations and instruction on the practice of Buddha Prajnaparamita, which is a method that strengthens our own wisdom.

For more information, visit http://floridadharmacelebration.org/program/

SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa Meditation Centre

Empower Your Inner Potential

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 13 – 15 March 2015

Over the course of this inspiring weekend, Gen-la Dekyong will be granting the Blessing Empowerment of Buddha Shakyamuni and special teachings on training the mind. Through this, we can open our hearts and cultivate the limitless potential that exists within our own minds.

Gen-la will teach special methods that enable us to grow love, acceptance, joy and freedom, so we see our daily life as a natural expression of these beautiful qualities.

For more information, visit http://meditateinsa.org/empower-your-inner-potential/

EUROPE

Kalpa Bhadra Buddhist Centre

The Empowerment of Buddha Manjushri

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 13 – 15 March 2015

In our busy daily lives, we experience many unpleasant feelings such as anger and stress, and we long to be free from them. To accomplish this, we need to understand how all our experiences arise from our mind, and how we can control our mind by relying on Buddha’s wisdom. We can then cultivate positive states of mind that protect us from suffering and create happiness for ourselves, both now and in the future.

This blessing Empowerment is an opportunity to make a special connection with Buddha Manjushri, who is the synthesis of the wisdom of all the Buddhas. Kadam Bridget Heyes will explain how, by applying this wisdom to our everyday life, we can solve our problems and attain a happy, meaningful life.

For more information, visit http://www.meditatenorthwales.com/welsh-dharma-celebration.html

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Naro Cho Druk, Commentary on the Six Yogas of Niguma, Part I

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 14 – 15 March 2015

This teaching is based on the commentary on the six yogas by the yogini Niguma, which are similar to those of Naropa. This first part will deal with the Lineage and Trulkor yoga, the Yoga of Sleep and Tummo.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/naro-cho-druk-commentary-on-the-six-yogas-of-niguma-part-i/?lang=en

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre

Life Is But A Dream

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 20 – 22 March 2015

Milarepa said:
Last night’s dream is my Teacher. Is it the same for you?
During this special weekend course, Gen-la Dekyong will give a commentary to this beautiful and profound quote revealing Buddha’s teachings on emptiness.

Sunday morning will be a guided retreat on the teachings with Gen Kelsang Thekchen.

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/special-events/

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Initation and Practice of Singamukha: the Lion-Faced Wisdom Dakini

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 21 – 22 March 2015

Lama Gangchen elaborated this practice on the base of the ancient text “Guru Yoga of the Dakini with the Face of a Lion” of Gyalwa Ensapa. Singamukha subdues the distressing forces of the subconsciousness that try to invade the waking consciousness and represents the primordial aspect of female energy.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/initation-and-practice-of-singamukha-the-lion-faced-wisdom-dakini/?lang=en

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre

Mindfulness & Concentration Weekend Course

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 27 – 29 March 2015

This course will look at how to develop and increase our mindfulness and concentration during meditation and in daily life, so that we can strengthen our meditation practice, experience a calm and peaceful mind, improve our relationships and have a happier, meaningful life.

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/beginners-weekend-retreats/

Rabten Chödarling

The 37 Practices of Bodhisattvas

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 28 – 29 March 2015

For more information, visit http://www.rabten.eu/eventsLiberec_en.htm

A great start to kick off the new year: Our fellow Shugdenpas in the East were fortunate to receive initiations and teachings from one of the greatest Lamas of our time, His Eminence Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, who spent the best part of January 2015 in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Yongyal Rinpoche’s dharma mastery and attainments are well documented in his biography, proof of his pure dedication towards the Dharma since he was enthroned at the age of 6. A student of many illustrious masters including H.H. Kyabje Trijang Dorje Chang, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche is the Abbot of Serpom Monastery in India and the founder of the Lamrim International Dharma Centre in Los Angeles.

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche willingly took on the responsibilities and challenges of guiding the monks of Sera Mey’s Pomra Khamtsen when they had no choice but to leave Sera Mey Monastery and form Serpom Monastery, in order to keep their commitments and practice of Dorje Shugden. It is a reflection of Yongyal Rinpoche’s sincerity, devotion and limitless compassion that he tirelessly shouldered the burden of ensuring all 600 monks of Serpom Monastery were adequately provided for, both in terms of their basic needs as well as their spiritual education, in addition to guiding his own Dharma centre in Los Angeles.

This precious erudite son of the Gelug lineage has traveled widely, like his predecessors, to spread the Buddhadharma and Lama Tsongkapa’s tradition far and wide. In January 2015 alone, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche gave the initiations and commentaries of Yamantaka, Guhyasamaja and Vajrayogini to lay and ordained practitioners at Thoesam Norling Buddhist Centre in Taipei, Taiwan, followed by a Medicine Buddha initiation in Taipei’s Tsongkapa Centre.

A few weeks later while in Hong Kong, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche then gave teachings on the ten preliminaries and the initiation and commentary of Cittamani Tara.

Like all illustrious reincarnations, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche is spearheading the growth of the Buddhadharma and bringing it to greater heights. With his tireless dedication to preserve the lineage and benefit all sentient beings, it is no wonder that Yongyal Rinpoche is highly revered in the Buddhist world, and to receive initiations or teachings from such a compassionate lama is truly a precious encounter.

Below are some wonderful pictures of Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche’s enlightened activities. We extend our gratitude to all our contributors for sending in pictures and news – may we bring the activities of great Lamas such as Yongyal Rinpoche to many others throughout the world.

Admin

TAIWAN: Three Days of Initiations in Thoesam Norling Buddhist Centre, Taipei

On 4 January 2015, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche gave the initiations and commentaries of Yamantaka, Guhyasamaja and Vajrayogini to ordained and lay practitioners in Thoesam Norling Buddhist Centre in Taipei, Taiwan. It was a joyous three day event and an auspicious way to start the new year.

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche and his students liberating animals before starting the pujas and initiations

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche (centre), Achok Rinpoche (left) and Sharpei Rinpoche (right)

A group photo with Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche’s Taiwanese students

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche and his loyal and dedicated assistant, Achok Rinpoche

Abundant offerings set up for the initiations

Offering body, speech and mind to Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche

Many Taiwanese students flocked to the centre to receive initiations from Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche

From left to right: Ven Achok Rinpoche, Ven. Serkong Tritul Rinpoche, Ven. Dromtug Rinpoche

TAIWAN: Medicine Buddha Initiation in Tsongkapa Centre

On 10 January 2015, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche also gave a Medicine Buddha initiation in Taipei’s Tsongkapa Centre, a much needed practice in today’s world which is divided by war, suffering and abuse.

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche arrives in Taipei’s Tsongkhapa Centre

Warmly welcomed by the members of the centre

Wearing a traditional lama’s coat

The Ven. Panglung Kuten makes offerings of body, speech and mind to Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche remained in Taiwan for many days giving teachings and initiations to the sangha and laity present

Dorje Shugden lamas continue to teach and uphold the pure lineage of Je Tsongkapa, regardless of the obstacles presented by the ban

HONG KONG: The Ten Preliminaries and Cittamani Tara Initiation

On 25 January 2015, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche gave teachings on the ten preliminaries and the initiation and commentary of Cittamani Tara. Yongyal Rinpoche also gave regular teachings while staying in Ven. Geshe Tenzin Palchok’s dharma centre in Hong Kong.

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche gave teachings on the ten preliminaries and Cittamani Tara initiation

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche (left) and Ven. Geshe Tenzin Palchok (far right)

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche also gave private teachings to a small group of students at Ven. Geshe Tenzin Palchok’s dharma center

Ven. Achok Rinpoche (right) arrived in Hong Kong from India, after giving a set of initiations and teachings to the monks and lay people in Serpom Monastery.

22 January 2015 was a landmark day for all Dorje Shugden practitioners around the world. For the first time in history, learned monks from Shar Ganden Monastery and Serpom Monastery were presented with their Geshe Lharampa certificates from the Gelugpa Buddhist University.

This Geshe Lharampa ceremony, which took place in Serpom Monastery, is significant because it’s the first of its kind for Dorje Shugden practitioners ever since the monasteries of Shar Ganden and Serpom separated from Ganden Shartse and Sera Mey respectively, due to the ban on Dorje Shugden’s practice.

Ever since the Dorje Shugden ban was enforced in 2008, Shugden monks were unable to receive the Geshe Lharampa degree (the equivalent of a PhD. in Buddhist philosophy) regardless of how qualified they might be, just because the existing Gelugpa University refused to issue such a degree to Shugden monks solely due to their religious beliefs.

Fortunately, through the compassion, effort and diligence of dedicated high lamas and monks from the Dorje Shugden tradition, this void has since been filled with the founding of the Gelugpa Buddhist University in Mysore, India. And it is the Gelugpa Buddhist University who, understanding the importance of producing esteemed teachers for the growth and continuation of the pure lineage of Lama Tsongkapa’s tradition, issued certificates for all qualified Geshe Lharampas of Serpom and Shar Ganden Monasteries.

The certificate-presentation ceremony was presided over by none other than H.E. Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Phende, the Abbot Emeritus of Shar Ganden Monastery, and H.E. Achok Rinpoche, close student and trusted assistant of Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, the Abbot of Serpom Monastery.

As the proceedings unfolded, the relief and joy of the monks was almost palpable as many Geshes have waited more than 5 years for this special day. All stalwart Dorje Shugden practitioners should rejoice at this wonderful news and extend deep appreciation to all who made this event possible.

May many more great geshes and scholars continue arising from the Dorje Shugden strongholds of Shar Ganden and Serpom, a testament to their great faith and dedication in preserving the precious lineage of Je Rinpoche. And may a tantric university for Dorje Shugden practitioners arise very soon, so that those denied entry into Gyuto and Gyumed Tantric Universities may have a place to further their studies of Buddhist tantra.

The new Geshe Lharampa certificate for Dorje Shugden practitioners received after 4 years of intensive studies

Certificate for Dorje Shugden practitioners after 2 years of studies

H.E. Gyara Rinpoche receives his Geshe Lharampa certificate from Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Phende

Shar Ganden chantmaster, Geshe Lobsang Jinpa, receives his certificate

On 17 January 2015, Serpom Monastery was scheduled to host a series of initiations for both monks and lay devotees. The initiations were originally planned to be conducted by Serpom Monastery’s Abbot, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, who would be travelling to India from USA via Taiwan for the teachings.

Unfortunately, following the recent turn of events on 15 January 2015, when Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche was denied entry into India despite being in possession of a valid 10-year visa, the administrators of Serpom Monastery, who had been preparing months ahead for the event were left in a tight spot, and the hundreds of devotees that had flown to India specifically to receive the teachings were deeply disappointed.

However, Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche’s unsurpassed compassion and wisdom in disseminating the Dharma for many years ensured that the initiations continued as planned, through his close student and trusted assistant, H.E. Achok Rinpoche. Achok Rinpoche, despite his youth, is an extremely qualified Lama who has received a multitude of teachings, initiations and empowerments from many eminent masters.

With the blessings of the lineage masters, Achok Rinpoche sat confidently but humbly on the throne in Serpom Monastery, and conferred the Yamantaka empowerment and commentary from 17-18 January 2015, which he had received from Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche and Geshe Yeshe Wangchuk. This was followed by White Manjushri and Medicine Buddha initiations on 19 January 2015. Achok Rinpoche also took the opportunity to visit Serpom School and Serpom Library, two important departments of the monastery.

We at DorjeShugden.com pray that all obstacles to the growth of our lineage will be pacified, and for unjust circumstances, such as the denial of entry and deportation of Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche from India, to cease. We appeal to all Shugden practitioners to lend your strength to lift the ban on Dorje Shugden’s practice.

A nice group photo of H.E. Achok Rinpoche and the new initiates

Photos: Achok Rinpoche arrives in Serpom Monastery

A grand welcome greeted the arrival of H.E. Achok Rinpoche in Serpom Monastery.

H.E. Achok Rinpoche arrives in Serpom Monastery

Many monks and lay people waited in anticipation to greet H.E. Achok Rinpoche

Photos: The Initiations

H.E. Achok Rinpoche gave three days of initiations and empowerments in Serpom Monastery’s prayer hall.

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Photos: Visiting Serpom school and Library

On 20 January 2015, H.E. Achok Rinpoche and Geshe Tenzin Palchok visited Serpom school and library, two important departments within Serpom Monastery.

H.E. Achok Rinpoche is greeted by monks and lay devotees

Dagor Rinpoche’s Monastery in Markham, Tibet

On 16 December 2014, a new Dorje Shugden monastery opened its doors to the public in Markham, Tibet. Home to some 200 Buddhist monks who were expelled from a larger monastery in Markham due to the ban on Dorje Shugden’s practice, this new monastery, Ganden Dhamcholing, was built and offered to H.E. Dagor Rinpoche through the kindness of loyal Shugden supporters and sponsors.

More than 10,000 Shugden practitioners from Markham and various parts of Tibet attended the grand opening of Ganden Dhamcholing Monastery, complete with auspicious pujas and public performances to celebrate the great fortune of the people of Markham. Below are some pictures of this joyous occasion submitted by our friends in Tibet, which are a source of inspiration for all Shugden practitioners across the world during these difficult times.

We at DorjeShugden.com rejoice and pray that the monks of Markham Gaden Dhamcholing Monastery will continue to uphold the pure lineage of Je Tsongkapa and for H.E. Dagor Rinpoche to fulfil the prayers of his previous lives and arise as an erudite master once again.

H.E. Dagor Rinpoche

More than 10,000 people gathered at Dagor Rinpoche’s Monastery to celebrate the grand opening ceremony

The lay people dressed in their best clothes to celebrate such a joyous occasion

[Editor's note: If you would like your Dharma centre's activities to be featured on DorjeShugden.com, please write in to our editors at ds@dorjeshugden.com]

USA & CANADA

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada

The New Year Retreat

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 27 December 2014 – 2 January 2015

The Stages of the Path to Happiness
Start off the year by immersing yourself in this New Year’s meditation retreat on Kadam Lamrim, ‘The Stages of the Path to Happiness’. Meditating on Lamrim overcomes all obstacles to our peace of mind, solves our daily problems, and leads us to realize pure lasting happiness for ourself and others. Gen Chögyan will be using the new presentation of the 14 meditations as described by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso in ‘How to Understand the Mind‘. Suitable for everyone.

Four guided meditations each day. Join for one session, one day or for the full retreat.

For more information, visit http://kadampa.ca/coursesevents/retreats/

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada

Attaining the Inner Dakini Land

Requirement: For practitioners who have received Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerments
Date: 3 – 10 January

Generation and Completion Stage Meditations
Immerse yourself in a week long retreat to become closer to Buddha Vajrayogini.

Gen Chögyan will guide us in a blissful journey along the two tantric stages, with an emphasis on completion stage meditations on the channel, drops and winds.

Four guided sessions each day. Join for a few session, full days or the entire retreat.

Morning silence (until lunch) will be observed Jan 4, 5, 9 & 10. Full silence will be observed from Jan 6-8.

For more information, visit http://kadampa.ca/coursesevents/retreats/

Kadampa Meditation Center New York

Lamrim and The Wheel of Life

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 9 – 15 January

Discover the Lamrim Pure Land through contemplating the 14 meditations presented in the book How to Understand the Mind with the Wheel of Life.

For more information, visit http://kadampanewyork.org/retreats/ buddhist-retreats/winter-retreats
 
 
 

Kadampa Meditation Centre Vancouver, Canada

Buddha Green Tara Empowerment with Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 16 – 18 January

Fearless Wisdom
Everyone is welcome to the annual Western Canada Dharma Celebration (WCDC) where people from Western Canada gather for a weekend of empowerment, teachings, meditations, and the good company of spiritual friends.

This annual event was established by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the founder of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU). All profits from the event go to the International Temples Project (ITP), a fund dedicated to building Temples, retreat centres, schools and more throughout the world.

This year’s WCDC will be taught be the General Spiritual Director of the NKT-IKBU, and acting National Spiritual Director of Canada; Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong, she will grant the Empowerment of Buddha Green Tara.

During this special event we will receive the special blessings of Tara, a female Buddha embodying enlightened compassion and wisdom. If we rely upon her with strong faith we will quickly receive her protection and blessings.

For more information, visit http://kadampacelebrations.ca/western-celebration/

Kadampa Meditation Center New York

Vajrayogini Generation Stage

Requirement: Participants must have already received Heruka and Vajrayogini Empowerments.
Date: 16 – 22 January

Enter the magical world of meditation in the blissful mandala of Vajrayogini.

For more information, visit http://kadampanewyork.org/retreats/ buddhist-retreats/winter-retreats

Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada

Buddha Shakyamuni Empowerment & Commentary to Liberating Prayer

Requirement: Open to the public
Date: 23 – 25 January

Following The Liberating Path
The annual Ontario Dharma Celebration (ODC) is a wonderful opportunity for people all across Ontario to come together to receive practical spiritual advice. It is held in the National Kadampa Temple in Toronto, which arose from the compassionate intention of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the founder of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU). All profits from the event go to the International Temples Project (ITP) fund, dedicated to public benefit.

Early in 2015, we will establish a deep connection with Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism in this world. By learning how to rely on him as our supreme unchanging friend, we can awaken our own compassion and wisdom. Gen-la Dekyong will give a commentary to the Liberating Prayer. This prayer, composed by Venerable Geshe-la for this modern time, is particularly accessible to everyone and engaged in daily by the people in Kadampa Buddhist centres around the world.

For more information, visit http://kadampacelebrations.ca/ontario-celebration/

Kadampa Meditation Center New York

Channels, Winds, & Drops Retreat

Requirement: Participants must have already received Heruka and Vajrayogini Empowerments.
Date: 23 – 29 January

Realize the nature of your own mind – the secret dakini – through this retreat on tantric completion stage meditation. Do not seek Buddhahood elsewhere!

For more information, visit http://kadampanewyork.org/retreats/buddhist-retreats/winter-retreats
 

EUROPE

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC), UK

New Year Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 31 December 2014 – 3 January 2015

For more information, visit http://www.tarakmc.org/category/retreats-events/weekend-events/

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK

Migtsema Retreat

Requirement: Open to public (2nd and 3rd January); Highest Yoga Tantra Practitioners Only (Whole Retreat)
Date: 2 – 30 January

This is a very special opportunity to engage in guided retreat on the beautiful practice of Migtsema mantra recitation. The practice of Migtsema is very important for fulfilling one’s own and others wishes and contains the meaning of all Buddha’s eighty-four thousand teachings.

The sessions will be using the self-generation sadhana, King of the Dharma, and will allow time to focus on the various, beautiful meditation objects within this practice as well as for recitation of the Migtsema prayer.

The retreat can be done as a counting retreat or simply to gain familiarity with and enjoyment of these practices. You can attend the whole month or part of it.

Everyone is welcome to attend the introductory teachings on Friday and Saturday. The retreat sessions are only open to those who have received either a Je Tsongkhapa or Highest Yoga Tantra empowerment.

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/january-retreats/

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK

Lamrim Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 3 – 8 January

Lamrim, or stages of the path to enlightenment, is a special step-by-step presentation of Buddha’s teachings taught by Venerable Atisha around a thousand years ago. This presentation makes the teachings very accessible and practical as we know how to enter, how to progress and how to complete the Buddhist path to enlightenment.

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/january-retreats/
 

Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre (MKMC), UK

Training the Mind Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 4 – 18 January

Vajrayogini is a female Wisdom Buddha of Highest Yoga Tantra. By following the skilful guidance of an experienced retreat leader we can take the blessings of this powerful practice into our heart. Short, simple and immensely powerful, these meditations open the door to the pure world of Buddha Vajrayogini.

For more information, visit http://nkt-kmc-manjushri.org/the-new-year-retreats-january#tab-id-5

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC), UK

Lamrim Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 9 – 11 January

For more information, visit http://www.tarakmc.org/category/retreats-events/weekend-events/

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Naro Cho Druk, commentary on the Six Yogas of Niguma, Part 1

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 10 – 11 January

This teaching is based on the commentary on the Six Yogas by the yogini Niguma which are similar to those of Naropa. This first part will deal with the Lineage and Trulkor, the Yoga of Sleep and Tummo.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/naro-cho-druk-commentary-on-the-six-yogas-of-niguma-part-i/?lang=en

Thekchen Kadampa Buddhist Centre, UK

Vajrayogini Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra Practitioners only
Date: 10 – 15 January

Vajrayogini Retreat: January 10 – 13

Focusing on the practice of ‘Quick Path to Great Bliss’, this retreat will help to bring new life and inspiration to our practice of Secret Mantra.

‘Quick Path to Great Bliss’ contains all the essential practices of Highest Yoga Tantra, and as Geshe Kelsang Gyatso explains, it is the quick path to enlightenment.

 
The Uncommon Yoga of Inconceivability Retreat: January 14 – 15

Gain experience of this essential practice of transference of consciousness in the ideal conditions of retreat.

The uncommon yoga of inconceivability is a special method, unique to the practice of Vajrayogini, whereby we can attain the Pure Land of Keajra or Dakini Land, the Pure Land of Buddha Heruka and Buddha Vajrayogini, within this life without abandoning our present body.

For more information, visit http://www.thekchencentre.org/vajrayogini-uncommon-yoga-inconceivability-retreats-2015

Compassion Kadampa Buddhist Centre, UK

Guided Concentration Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 10 – 17 January

This is an essential opportunity for us to train together in concentration. On this retreat we will emphasis improving our mindfulness and our ability to focus, creating an inner brightness and clarity that makes our meditation session effective and deeply enjoyable.

With the inner peace that good concentration brings, we will find a natural sense of contentment and freedom from craving.

For more information, visit http://www.meditation-newcastle.org/guided-concentration-retreat-10th-to-17th-january-2015/

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC), UK

Mind Like a Clear, Blue Sky: Realising our own Mind

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 16 – 18 January

For more information, visit http://www.tarakmc.org/category/retreats-events/weekend-events/

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK

Loving Kindness

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 16 – 22 January

Developing a good heart, a mind of unconditional love, is the foundation of all spiritual attainments. This retreat will focus on meditations that help us to improve our love so that it becomes unlimited and unconditional and more like the love of a Buddha. Love really is all you need!

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/january-retreats/

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

Teachings of Buddhist philosophy – Practice of purification: the four opponent powers

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 17 – 18 January

There are two factors which support spiritual development: the purification of negativities and the accumulation of positive energy (virtuous actions).

The purification of negative actions is important but often not well understood; it is not through suffering that we purify but through specific attitudes and practices.

In these two days Lama Michel will clarify the meaning of purification, why and how to do it. He will give the transmission and meditative experience of the purification practices according to sutra and tantra, specifically through the practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas and the practice of Vajrasattva, the Diamond Mind.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/teachings-of-buddhist-philosophy/?lang=en

Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre (MKMC), UK

Vajrayogini Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra practitioners only
Date: 18 – 31 January

The teachings on Lojong, or Training the Mind, focus in particular on developing minds of universal love, compassion and the supreme good heart of bodhichitta through the special practices of equalizing and exchanging ourself with others. They also show how we can transform all life’s difficulties into valuable spiritual methods. Through meditating deeply on these teachings and integrating them into our daily life we can experience greater meaning and lasting happiness in our busy modern lives.

For more information, visit http://nkt-kmc-manjushri.org/the-new-year-retreats-january#tab-id-5

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC), UK

Vajrayogini Self Generation Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra practitioners only
Date: 23 – 25 January

For more information, visit http://www.tarakmc.org/category/retreats-events/weekend-events/

Madhyamaka Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK

Vajrayogini Self-Generation Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantric Practitioners only
Date: 23 – 30 January

Highest Yoga Tantra is the quick path to enlightenment in which we can attain Buddhahood in one short life. This retreat will focus in the self-generation meditations based upon the practice of Quick Path to Great Bliss; a perfect way to energize your formal tantric practice and draw closer to Vajrayogini.

For more information, visit http://www.madhyamaka.org/january-retreats/

Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre

White Manjushri Initation and Practice

Requirement: Call for more information
Date: 24 – 25 January

White Manjushri, Sita (Tibetan: jam kar little pal.) is the bodhisattva of wisdom in its peaceful form, and is part of Tantra Siddhaikavira.

For more information, visit http://ahmc.ngalso.net/events/white-manjushri-initation-and-practice/?lang=en

Thekchen Kadampa Buddhist Centre, UK

Transform Your Life Retreat

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 24 – 28 January

Everyone is looking for happiness. But are we looking in the right place? By focusing outside of ourselves all the time for solutions to our problems and a cure for our unhappiness, we are making a big mistake because happiness comes from within.

In this retreat we will learn how to transform ourselves into the person we wish to be. Through teachings and guided meditations, Gen Lekma will reveal how to develop positive attitudes to ourselves, our life-situations and our relationships.

Everyone is welcome. Suitable for beginners, as well as those with more experience. These meditations are taken from an ancient, timeless sequence of Buddhist meditations called Lamrim (Stages of the Path).

The retreat is based on ‘Transform Your Life’ by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.

For more information, visit http://www.thekchencentre.org/transform-life-retreat-24-jan-28-jan-2015

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC), UK

Uncommon Yoga of Inconceivability Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra practitioners only
Date: 30 January – 1 February

For more information, visit http://www.tarakmc.org/category/retreats-events/weekend-events/

ASIA

Kadampa Meditation Centre Australia

Vajrasattva Empowerment & Teachings on Purifying Obstacles and Negative Karma

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerments of Heruka Body Mandala and Vajrayogini
Date: 31 December 2014 – 4 January 2015

At this year’s Australasian Festival, Gen-la Dekyong will grant the blessing empowerment of Vajrasattva – the Buddha of purification. After making this special connection with Guru Vajrasattva, Gen-la will explain how we can remove the causes of all our daily problems and unhappiness by relying upon him.

By putting Gen-la’s teachings into practice, we can not only find freedom from life’s difficulties but also eliminate discouragement, and clear our path of obstacles, filling our lives with joy and confidence.

In the New Meditation Handbook, Geshe-la explains that by purifying our mind and engaging in pure actions or karma, we come to abide in a pure world. He says ‘This is how to find true happiness from within our mind.’

Join us for this special spiritual event and start the new year by embarking on journey to a completely pure world.

For more information, visit http://www.australasianfestival.org/the-festival/

Kalpa Bhadra Kadampa Buddhist Centre, New Zealand

A Silent Retreat in New Zealand’s Southern Alps

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 6 – 13 January

Gen Kelsang Dornying will guide a special silent retreat of Buddha Vajrasattva. By deepening our reliance on Buddha Vajrasattva, the buddha of purification, we will cleanse our mind of delusions, negativities, and obstacles. On this silent retreat Gen Dornying will give teachings on the practice of Buddha Vajrasattva and there will be sessions of meditation and recitation. This gives us the great opportunity to purify our mind quickly, so that we can make swift progress on the spiritual path.

For more information, visit http://meditateinchristchurch.org/wp/mountains-retreats/post-australasian-festival-retreat

Kadampa Meditation Centre, Hong Kong

Close Retreat of Vajrayogini

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerments of Heruka Body Mandala and Vajrayogini
Date: 8 January – 12 February

From 8 January to 12 February 2015, the Centre will organize the Close Retreat of Vajrayogini. Those who have received the Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerments of Heruka Body Mandala and Vajrayogini are welcome to join either the Counting Retreat or the meditation retreat to deepen the generation and completion stages practices.

For more information, visit http://www.meditation.hk/en/courses/Close-Retreat-of-Vajrayogini

Kadampa Meditation Centre Singapore

The Blissful Path – Vajrayogini Retreat

Requirement: Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerments of Heruka Body Mandala and Vajrayogini
Date: 15 – 19 January

This retreat is for those wishing to train in the Highest Yoga Tantra self generation practice of Buddha Vajrayogini, called ‘The Blissful Path.’

For more information, visit http://nkt-kmc-singapore.org/retreats

Serpom Monastery, Karnataka South India

Public Teaching and Empowerments by His Eminence Yongyal Rinpoche

Requirement: Open to public
Date: 16 – 23 January