Dharamshala: On November 4th, 2024, Kyabje Gaden Tri Rinpoche consecrated and inaugurated the Prayer Hall (Dukhang) at Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery. The inaugural ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Shri Pema Kandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh; Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration; H.E. Guru Tulku Rinpoche; Shri Tapir Gao, Co-Chair of APPFT and Member of Lok Sabha; Shri Jambey Wangdi, Chairman of the Department of Karmic and Aadhyamic Affairs, and Smt. Rinchen Lhamo, Member of the National Commission for Minorities, along with various MLAs and other notable guests.

Addressing the gathering, the Speaker conveyed warm greetings on behalf of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and expressed deep appreciation to Guru Tulku Rinpoche and all those involved for their unwavering dedication and efforts in the successful establishment of the prayer hall at Thunchog Gatsel Ling Monastery. He described the new prayer hall as a profound testament to the merit of all beings and a solid foundation for the benefit of both the Dharma and sentient beings.

The Speaker highlighted Guru Tulku Rinpoche’s distinguished lineage, noting that since the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama, successive reincarnations of the Tulku lineage have been dedicated to the service of the Dharma, particularly in the southern Mon region. He also acknowledged that the current Guru Tulku Rinpoche has been officially recognized by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Speaker further shared that Guru Tulku Rinpoche’s journey began at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Dharamshala, where he laid the foundation for his education. He continued his studies at various monastic centres in southern India, ultimately receiving the title of Geshe Lharampa. His leadership extended to serving as the Abbot of Mon Tawang Monastery.

“Throughout his early years, Guru Tulku Rinpoche devoted himself to rigorous study, and in his later years, he has been profoundly engaged in activities that benefit the Dharma and sentient beings,” the Speaker remarked. “As a prominent figure representing the deep bond between southern Mon and Tibetan society, we wish Guru Tulku Rinpoche a long life and the swift fulfilment of all his noble endeavours for the Dharma and all sentient beings.”

The Speaker also extended heartfelt gratitude to the benefactors whose support made the establishment of the prayer hall possible. He dedicated the merits of this achievement for the benefit of the Dharma and all sentient beings. He emphasized the crucial role of the ordained Sangha in residing there, teaching, and upholding the precious Buddha Dharma.

Reflecting on the significance of Buddhism in the modern world, the Speaker quoted His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who has described Tibetan Buddhist culture as “a precious treasure of the world.” He reminded the gathering that the Tibetan language preserves over 300 volumes of the Kangyur and Tengyur, which together contain the full collection of sutras and tantras, uniquely available in Tibetan. This, he emphasized, underscores the profound cultural and spiritual value of Tibetan Buddhism.

In the presence of the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, and several members of the state legislative assembly, the Speaker also underscored the deep and enduring relationship between India and Tibet, especially the unique bond between the people of Arunachal Pradesh and the Tibetan community. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his steadfast support of Tibetan religious and cultural matters. He also acknowledged Shri Tapir Gao, a Member of the Indian Parliament and the Chairperson of the All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet, as well as Shri R.K. Khrimey, for their active involvement in the India-Tibet Support Group.

The Speaker spoke warmly of his recent meeting with representatives of various Tibetan support groups in the state, who demonstrated a deep commitment and a strong desire to further support Tibet’s religion, culture, and political cause.

In conclusion, the Speaker prayed for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Gaden Tri Rinpoche, and for the successful fulfilment of all their enlightened aspirations. He also offered prayers for the flourishing of Guru Tulku Rinpoche’s great activities and for the continued progress of all religious endeavours at Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery, free from any obstacles.