His Holiness the Dalai Lama walking through the courtyard of the main Tibetan Temple in Dharamshala, India, on his way to attend a Mani Dhondrup Prayer Session. Photo / Tenzin Choejor / OHHDL
Dharamshala: His Holiness the Dalai Lama attended the Mani Dhondrup (100 million Mani recitation) Prayer Session on the first day of Saka Dawa earlier this morning at Tsuglagkhang in Dharamshala.
“As we begin Mani Dhondrup, we must cultivate a compassionate mind along with the recitation of Avalokitesvara’s sacred mantra,” said His Holiness the Dalai Lama when addressing the followers and devotees amassed at the temple to participate in the Mani Dhondrup. His Holiness advised the assembled Tibetans and Tibetans everywhere to cultivate their innate warm-heartedness and benevolent nature from an early age in order to preserve Tibet’s unique inherency. Development of an altruistic mind and bodhicitta were also stressed in His speech.
His Holiness further stated that “the change in the current situation of Tibet is inevitable” as changes inside China are undergoing. “It seems more anticipated that I will be teaching and sharing my thoughts on Buddhism in Lhasa alongside a congregation of Tibetans from both inside and outside Tibet”, said His Holiness.
Saka Dawa, the fourth month according to the Tibetan calendar, is considered the most sacred month in which Buddha Shakyamuni displayed the deeds of birth, enlightenment and Parinirvana.
Tibetans and followers of Tibetan Buddhism observe Saka Dawa by paying particular attention to their dharma practice, visiting holy sites to offer prayers and engaging in spiritual activities. During Saka Dawa, the merits generated through prayers and practices are considered to multiply millions of times.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama taking part in the Mani Dhondrup Prayer Session at Tsuglagkhang. Photo / Tenzin Choejor / OHHDL
Monks in the audience inside Tsuglagkhang following the prayers during the Mani Dhondrup Prayer Session. Photo / Tenzin Choejor / OHHDL
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, along with the congregation chanting prayers before having tea during Mani Dhondrup Prayer Session. Photo / Tenzin Choejor / OHHDL
