Month: December 2024

Kathmandu, Nepal—In the heart of Kathmandu, set against the tranquil backdrop of the Himalayan foothills, a significant event took place at the Druk Amitabha Mountain Nunnery, locally known as Seto Gumba or White monastery. 

The 10th Annual Drukpa Council (ADC) was inaugurated on December 28, bringing together a diverse assembly of dignitaries, spiritual leaders, and international guests, all united in their commitment to peace, tolerance, and environmental stewardship.

As attendees entered the Naro Hall of the nunnery, they were warmly welcomed by the Kung Fu Nuns, who have become a symbol of the Drukpa tradition. Their dedication to spiritual practice is complemented by their active involvement in social initiatives that have profoundly impacted the community.

In his keynote address at the inaugural event, Narayan Prasad Dahal, Chairperson of the National Assembly of Nepal, extended a warm welcome to the international guests and dignitaries, emphasizing the significance of being in the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. He pointed out that the Drukpa Lineage has been instrumental in promoting messages of peace, tolerance, and compassion around the globe. “The Drukpa tradition not only provides spiritual teachings but also champion environmental conservation and human welfare,” he stated.

Dahal expressed his belief that the gathering would guide future initiatives for the Drukpa community and its followers. “This assembly encourages not just spiritual practices but offers practical solutions to the challenges faced by contemporary society,” he said.

At a time when climate change poses significant threats, Dahal praised the Drukpa tradition’s contributions to sustainable natural resource management. “Such initiatives are particularly vital for a Himalayan nation like Nepal,” he said, commending the tradition for fostering lives dedicated to religious tolerance, inner peace, and human kindness.

Reflecting on Nepal’s significance, he said, “This serene land has emerged as a symbol of hope, compassion, and transformation.” Dahal expressed his happiness at witnessing the nuns not only engaged in spiritual practices but also taking active roles in initiatives benefiting society.

The Chairperson also lauded the Kung Fu Nuns’ efforts in promoting gender equality, raising awareness about eco-friendly lifestyles, organizing cleanliness campaigns, and providing relief during Nepal’s devastating earthquake. “Their initiatives are not only commendable but also deeply impactful,” he affirmed.

Dahal referred to the 10th ADC as a celebration of the rich heritage of the Drukpa tradition and its worldwide influence. “Under the wise guidance of His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa, this council serves as a platform to connect diverse individuals and inspire unity. It is a time to celebrate our shared values of love, compassion, and wisdom,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dahal described this year’s council as a revival of collective spirit, compassion, and a commitment to fostering interconnectedness.

Gyalwa Dokhampa, advisor to the 10th ADC, shared that the event aims to unite Drukpa lineage masters, practitioners, scholars, and followers from around the world to cultivate harmony and collaboratively preserve the lineage while serving Dharma and humanity.

He said that regional political leaders have increasingly recognized the historical significance of the Drukpa lineage, consistently supporting and representing their interests at ADCs. “The first ADC took place in Nepal in 2009, and the Government of Nepal has been gracious hosts. This year, having the Chairperson of the National Assembly as our Guest of Honor underscores our gratitude,” Dokhampa added.

Describing the historical importance of Nepal, Rinpoche highlighted its status as the birthplace of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni. “The Bouddhanath Stupa, for instance, was constructed long before the Buddha’s birth, illustrating that Buddhism has roots in this land for centuries,” he explained.

Dokhampa emphasized that the Drukpa Lineage has been present in Nepal since the 12th century, with numerous monasteries established throughout the country, laying the foundation for a strong Buddhist presence. He said, “Through the ADC, we have reconnected with over 65 Drukpa monasteries across the region, highlighting Nepal’s significance for all Buddhist followers, especially those of the Drukpa lineage.”

The ADC has drawn hundreds of monks, nuns, rinpoches, trulkus, and devotees from Bhutan, Ladakh, Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Nepal, participating in the five-day program that will conclude on January 1. The council promises a rich blend of spiritual teachings, cultural performances, and humanitarian discussions, further strengthening the bonds within the Drukpa community.

Kathmandu, Nepal – His Holiness the Je Khenpo praised the spiritual unity and legacy of the Drukpa lineage at the opening of the 10th Annual Drukpa Council (ADC) at the Druk Amitabha monastery in Kathmandu on December 28. 

In a message delivered by Je Khenpo’s representative, Khenchen Tandin Sithub, His Holiness reflected on the essence of the Drukpa tradition, stating, “Half the population is Drukpa, half the Drukpa are begging mendicants, and half the begging mendicants are Siddhas.” 

Khenchen Tandin conveyed the Je Khenpo’s heartfelt congratulations and prayers for the continued proliferation of the “Essential Teachings”, urging devotees to embrace their transformative potential.

Gyalwa Dokhampa Rinpoche, an advisor to the ADC, noted that representatives from the Je Khenpo have attended every ADC since its inception in 2009, thanking the Central Monastic Body for their ongoing support. He emphasized Bhutan’s deep spiritual connection to the Drukpa lineage, where Mahayana Buddhism is central to its culture and identity.

According to Gyalwa Dokhampa, the ADC embodies the enlightened vision of the Gyalwang Drukpa, aiming to unite Drukpa masters, practitioners, scholars, and followers globally to foster harmony, preserve the lineage, and serve the Dharma. He highlighted on the significance of this year’s event, as it was graced by the parents of Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Yab Dhondup Gyaltshen and Yum Sonam Chuki.

The ADC also enjoys strong political support, with Bhutan’s Minister for Home Affairs, Lyonpo Tshering, attending to represent the government. He highlighted the importance of the Drukpa Kagyued tradition in Bhutan’s national identity, stating, “Its teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and interdependence resonate deeply within the hearts of Bhutanese people,” and connect to the country’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH).

Lyonpo Tshering also emphasised the shared heritage between Bhutan and Nepal, reinforcing a collective responsibility to preserve the teachings of the Drukpa lineage for all sentient beings. He praised the ADC’s ten-year anniversary as a beacon of enlightenment and a platform for interfaith dialogue, essential for addressing contemporary challenges through Buddhist values.

The 1,000-year-old Drukpa lineage is one of the cornerstones of Vajrayana Buddhism, with over 1,000 monasteries across the Himalayan region. Gyalwa Dokhampa pointed out that each monastery acts like a pillar of a stable house, emphasising the ADC’s role in preserving ancient wisdom while promoting spiritual practices in a rapidly modernising world.

Gyalwang Drukpa stresses that ADC activities must be pure and apolitical, striving for the benefit of all, regardless of gender or race. Gyalwa Dokhampa noted that the Council’s significant focus on humanitarian initiatives, such as environmental preservation efforts like tree plantations and community service projects, including the globally recognised Kungfu nuns, who exemplify women’s empowerment.

Historically, the ADC is held in Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The rich Buddhist heritage of Nepal is evident in the ancient Bouddhanath Stupa, which predated the birth of Buddha Shakyamuni. Since the 12th century, the Drukpa lineage has established roots in Nepal, fostering a resurgence of Drukpa monasteries and deepening ties between regions.

The ADC also facilitates renewed connections with over 65 Drukpa monasteries across Nepal, enhancing awareness of ancestral lineage and strengthening bonds between followers throughout the Himalayan region.During the event yesterday, hundreds of monks, nuns, rinpoches, and devotees attended a talk by Khenchen Tandin Sithub on “Four Reliances” and the Four Teachings of Kadampa. The five-day program, concluding on January 1, is rich with spiritual teachings, cultural performances, and humanitarian discussions.

Yab Dhondup Gyaltshen and Yum Sonam Chuki are gracing as the special guests for this year’s ADC programme

Kathmandu, Nepal (December 28, 2024)– Serving as a hub for community events and humanitarian efforts, the Kung Fu Nuns from the Drukpa Lineage of Buddhism are set to host the 10th Annual Drukpa Council (ADC), a conference featuring profound teachings, inspiring talks, and humanitarian discussions by leaders of the Drukpa Lineage. 

 The event takes place in Kathmandu today, December 28, 2024, and will continue till January 1, 2025. The Chairperson of Nepal’s National Assembly, Narayan Prasad Dahal, will inaugurate the spiritual conference at Druk Amitabha Monastery—locally known as Seto Gumba or the White Monastery—on December 28. The council is expected to bring together spiritual leaders, environmentalists, and peace advocates from Bhutan, India, Nepal, and other Himalayan regions, along with participants from around the world. Bhutan will be represented by its Home Minister and a senior spiritual master, Khenchen Tandin Sithub, who is attending on behalf of His Holiness the Je Khenpo, the chief abbot of Bhutan’s Monastic Body. 

Yab Dhondup Gyaltshen and Yum Sonam Chuki arrived in Kathmandu yesterday as the special guests for this year’s ADC programme.

Founded in 2009 by Gyalwang Drukpa, the revered head of the Drukpa Lineage, the ADC seeks to foster global compassion, harmony, and spiritual growth. Resuming after a six-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s event is themed “Rejoice: Connect and Aspire Beyond Boundaries” and also marks the reopening of the nunnery to the public. 

A Spiritual Renaissance 

The five-day gathering promises an enriching experience, blending spiritual teachings, cultural performances, and humanitarian discussions. Organizers emphasize the transformative nature of the event, which aims to inspire attendees toward spiritual growth and compassion.  “The ADC serves as a platform to reconnect Himalayan communities with their spiritual heritage while inspiring global unity,” said an event coordinator.  The council’s conclusion on New Year’s Day symbolizes a fresh chapter of unity, growth, and spiritual transformation. With over 3,000 participants expected, the ADC reinforces Nepal’s position as a global spiritual destination while contributing significantly to the local economy.  

Champions of Change: The Kung Fu Nuns  

A major highlight of the ADC is the participation of the celebrated Kung Fu Nuns. These nuns, who combine spiritual discipline with martial arts, will perform Kung Fu demonstrations, sacred drum rituals, and other ceremonial activities. “Kung Fu is part of our daily routine,” said 24-year-old Jigme Yangchen Gamo, a Kung Fu Nun. “It’s not about violence but about maintaining physical and mental strength, allowing us to focus and concentrate on our responsibilities.”  

With the return of the ADC, the Kung Fu Nuns are reopening the monastery’s gates to the public for the first time since the pandemic. Home to 300 nuns, the nunnery serves as a center for practice, worship, and humanitarian coordination. While the work of the Kung Fu Nuns has inspired many, the nunnery itself stands as a model of sustainability and service, according to ADC officials. 

Hailing from the Drukpa Lineage of Buddhism—which boasts a thousand-year history tracing back to the Indian saint Naropa—the Kung Fu Nuns continue their legacy under the spiritual leadership of the Gyalwang Drukpa. With his encouragement and support, the nuns began practicing Kung Fu to build strength and confidence.  The organizers have announced that the Kung Fu Nuns will take center stage in various prominent roles during the council, serving as hosts, speakers, and performers. Their demonstrations of Kung Fu skills and sacred drum rituals are anticipated to be among the event’s highlights. 

Legacy of the Drukpa LineageThe Drukpa Lineage, with roots tracing back to the 12th-century charismatic Buddhist figure in Tibet, Drogon Tsangpa Gyare (1161-1211), spans across the Himalayas, including Bhutan, Ladakh, and Nepal, and even Vietnam. It upholds the Mahayana Buddhist philosophy of compassion and service, which continues to inspire its followers globally.  The ADC stands as a testament to this enduring legacy, fostering unity among Bhutan, Nepal, and other Himalayan communities. “As the council ushers in the new year, it reinforces its mission of spreading wisdom and harmony across boundaries,” said an organizer.  

Live to Love InitiativeAs part of the ADC, the Live to Love initiative, in collaboration with the Nepal Red Cross Society, will host a blood donation drive from December 28 to 31. Founded by Gyalwang Drukpa in 2004, Live to Love is a global grassroots nonprofit that empowers Himalayan communities through education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.  The ADC will also feature a special awards ceremony on December 30 to honor the contributions of Live to Love chapters worldwide. Gyalwang Drukpa’s unwavering dedication towards making the world a better place to live for everyone has earned him numerous international awards and recognition including the UN Millennium Development Goals Award, Aurora Modern Day Hero Award and Green Hero Award. 

A Unified VisionThe 10th Annual Drukpa Council serves not only as a spiritual platform but also as a unifying event that celebrates the shared heritage of the Himalayan communities.  Today, the Drukpa lineage extends beyond Bhutan, with a significant presence in Ladakh, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti in India, as well as parts of parts of Nepal, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, France, Germany and Canada. Its followers continue to uphold its teachings of compassion and service, spreading the values of the lineage worldwide.  With the participation of the Kung Fu Nuns and initiatives like Live to Love, the ADC encapsulates a vision of compassion, empowerment, and global harmony, creating a legacy for the future. 

The writer is the former Editor of Kuensel, Executive Director of the Journalists’ Association of Bhutan and Central Executive Member of SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF).