Guru Vajradhara Chamgon Kenting Tai Situpa Arrives in Bodhgaya

Tergar Monastery, 8 January 2024 Devotees lined the streets with khatas in hand and devotion in their hearts as they eagerly anticipated the arrival of Guru Vajradhara Chamgon Kenting Tai Situ Rinpoche. His Holiness was escorted from the airport by His Eminence Yonten Mingyur Rinpoche, His Eminence Kyungpo Gyalton Rinpoche and their entourage. A Golden Procession welcomed Rinpoche to Tergar monastery, where the ground was carpeted with red rose petals and orange and yellow marigolds, including a lotus and dharmachakra made of blossoms, as well as the eight auspicious symbols. Incense perfumed the air as the gyalings, cymbals, hand drums and other instruments played, accompanied by auspicious banners. Sheltered by a large golden parasol, Rinpoche proceeded to the shrine room. At his side, an attendant carried the red crown; wrapped in silk brocade, it was carefully borne on his left shoulder, as befits a sacred object. In the shrine room, Situ Rinpoche offered prostrations before sitting on the throne. Mingyur Rinpoche, wearing the Gampopa hat, lead the mandala and body, speech and mind offerings, which were followed by dresi [sweet rice], Tibetan butter tea, and prayers. This event marked a momentous occasion, the first time that Situ Rinpoche has presided over the Kagyu Monlam. He attended the Monlam many years ago, when the previous Kalu Rinpoche was the organiser, but has been unable to attend in recent years.