DHARAMSHALA: The Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration today expressed its deep condolences at the passing away of His Eminence Sakya Dagchen Rinpoche Ngawang Kunga Sonam of Phuntsok Phodrang. Rinpoche passed away around 8:15 pm on Friday, 29 April at Seattle in the United States. He was 88.

“On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration, the Kashag would like to offer its profound condolences to the family and devotees of Sakya Dagchen Rinpoche,” the Kashag said.

“We pray for his swift rebirth so that he can continue his noble teachings and dharma activities for the benefit of all sentient beings,” it added.

The Kashag also announced that it would hold a prayer service tomorrow at noon, following which the various offices and departments of the Central Tibetan Administration would remain closed as a mark of respect.