Ravangla, West Sikkim: In a profound display of devotion and unity, the Kunphenling Tibetan Settlement Ghoton Committee organised a sacred prayer ceremony at the revered Tashiding Monastery on 22 April 2026 dedicated to the long life of His Holiness The Great 14th Dalai Lama and for universal peace and harmony.

Originally, the sacred offering was planned for 26 April to coincide with the auspicious occasion of Tsechu. However, as it coincided with the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile election, the Committee thoughtfully rescheduled the ceremony to 22 April, which also falls on a Wednesday, observed as Lhakar (White Wednesday), a day of special spiritual significance dedicated to His Holiness.

The day commenced in the early hours, as the Head Lama and monks of Thupten Dhargyeling Monastery, accompanied by Settlement Officer Kalsang Tseten, Speaker of the Local Tibetan Assembly Yangdup, General Secretary of the Kunphenling Multipurpose Cooperative Society Woeser Lhamo, heads of various governmental and non-governmental organisations, and camp leaders, departed from the settlement at 5:00 a.m. The delegation arrived at the sacred site of Tashiding Monastery at approximately 7:00 a.m.

Upon arrival, the gathering was ceremonially received, and under the guidance of the monastic community, elaborate arrangements for the sacred rituals were made. The portrait of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama was respectfully enthroned, symbolising his spiritual presence at the ceremony.

Prior to the commencement of the prayers, Khen Rinpoche offered a traditional Mendrel to the throne of His Holiness, invoking auspiciousness and blessings. Thereafter, a series of profound Buddhist rituals including Shabrim Sokdrup (long-life offering and accomplishment prayer), Monlam (aspiration prayers), and the ceremonial hoisting of Lungta (prayer flags) were conducted with deep reverence. The prayer flags were raised across the sacred landscape from multiple vantage points, symbolically carrying prayers for compassion, harmony, and well-being to all sentient beings.

The rituals further included the offering of Sangsol, invoking local deities and protectors, thereby sanctifying the environment and enhancing the spiritual potency of the occasion.

As a special offering, the Settlement Officer, General Secretary of Nyamdrel, and the Speaker of the Kunphenling Tibetan Local Assembly jointly offered 100 butter lamps, dedicating the merit for His Holiness’ long life, good health, and continued service towards humanity.

This sacred initiative forms part of the Kunphenling Ghoton Committee’s commitment in observance of the global “Year of Compassion,” marking the 90th Birth Anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The ceremony was carried out with profound faith, unity, and devotion by the monastic community, public leaders, and members of the settlement.

Addressing the gathering, Khen Rinpoche emphasised the shared cultural and spiritual heritage of the Himalayan people, stating that despite geographical distances, “we are one people, with the same culture, language, and identity.” He called for strengthening unity through more frequent spiritual and cultural engagements, noting that such initiatives help bridge gaps and prevent misunderstandings.

He further highlighted the immense spiritual significance of Tashiding Monastery as the holiest pilgrimage sites associated with Guru Padmasambhava in Sikkim, stating that performing prayers at such sacred sites greatly amplifies their merit and blessings. He warmly appreciated the Kunphenling Ghoton Committee for bringing this important prayer initiative to Tashiding and expressed hope for continued collaboration in the future.

Khen Rinpoche also donated Rupees 5000/- for Settlement Tsechu Prayer.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of unity, spiritual commitment, and collective aspiration for the long life of His Holiness and the flourishing of peace and compassion across the world.

– Report filed by Kunphenling Tibetan Settlement Office, Ravangla