Ravangla, South Sikkim: On the auspicious 10th day of the fourth Tibetan month, the Kunphenling Tibetan Settlement community observed the holy occasion of Saga Dawa at the sacred pilgrimage site of Lho Khandro Sangphug in South Sikkim.

The event was organized by the Kunphenling Ghoton Committee under the leadership of Tsechu Thupten Dhargyeling Monastery as part of the global celebration marking the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and the ongoing “Year of Compassion.”

Lho Khandro Sangphug, known as the “Hidden Dakini Cave of the South,” is regarded as one of the four important sacred caves associated with Guru Padmasambhava. The spiritually significant site provided a meaningful setting for prayers and religious activities dedicated to peace, compassion, and harmony.

The religious ceremonies were conducted under the guidance of the monastery administrators (Nyerpa) and attended by twelve monks, including the Dorjee Lopon (Vajra Master), Umzey (Chanting Master), and monks from Tsechu Thupten Dhargyeling Monastery and Khandro Sangphug Sangpo.

The main religious activities included:

– Thousand Tsog Offering for the accumulation of merit and blessings.
– Offering of one hundred butter lamps symbolising wisdom and the removal of ignorance.
– Riwo Sangchoe (smoke offering ritual) for purification and harmony.
– Hoisting of Lungta (prayer flags) for peace, prosperity, and well-being of all sentient beings.

Members of the Ravangla Kunphenling Tibetan Settlement actively participated in the observance. Although the Settlement Officer could not attend due to official engagements, office staff members, the Secretary, Speaker of the Local Tibetan Assembly, and members of the Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement participated in the program.

As part of the continued long-life prayers for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the monastery also unveiled sacred Guru Tsengye statues representing the Eight Manifestations of Guru Padmasambhava. The 15-inch statues, crafted from pure gold in Nepal, symbolize deep spiritual devotion and artistic excellence.

In addition, the community observed the compassionate Buddhist practice of Tsethar (Life Release) through the symbolic liberation of a cow, reflecting the importance of protecting and valuing all living beings.

The program concluded with prayers and dedication of merit for the long life and good health of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, world peace, and the flourishing of compassion and harmony among all people.

Through this sacred gathering, the community reaffirmed its commitment to the values of compassion, peace, and spiritual unity during the holy month of Saga Dawa.

– Report filed by Kunphenling Tibetan Settlement Office, Ravangla