RECENT ACTIVITIES

GYALWANG KARMAPA PAYS HOMAGE AT MAHABODHI STUPA AND VISITS NYInGMA MONLAM.

January 28, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

The Gyalwang Karmapa left Tergar Monastery at 9 am today with a small entourage to pay homage at the central shrine of Buddhism, the Mahabodhi Temple, home to the Bodhi tree and other sites linked with the time when Shakyamuni Buddha attained enlightenment.

The Gyalwang Karmapa was welcomed by Mr N.T. Dorje, Secretary of the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee, and the Head Monk-in-Charge the Venerable Pande Chalinda. His Holiness was escorted in procession through the Mahabodhi Stupa Ground and went directly to the main shrine room. Having prostrated three times, he presented traditional offerings of light, fruit, flowers, a donation and a new golden silk robe for the Buddha image, and then recited prayers.

Leaving the shrine room, Gyalwang Karmapa walked round to the area behind the temple, under the Bodhi tree, where he offered khatas at the alters of the ongoing Nyingma Monlam.

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Gyalwang Karmapa arrives in bodhgaya

January 27, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

His Holiness departed Delhi today for Bodhgaya, After a two-week stay at Gyuto Monastery where he worked on the editing of various texts and overseeing the completion of a giant Thangkha.  His arrival was eagerly anticipated at Tergar Monastery in Bodhgaya, the monastery of Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche.

In preparation for His Holiness' arrival in Bodhgaya, almost a thousand monks of Kagyu Gunchoe and Tergar Monastery decorated the road leading to the monastery. Long before His Holiness' flight had even landed at the airport in Gaya, the abbots and monks donned their ceremonial robes, and began rehearsing their instruments.  

As the car carrying the Gyalwang Karmapa reached the road leading to the monastery's gates, a golden procession of monastics wearing their best brocade played a musical welcome and solemnly escorted His Holiness forward. By the time the procession had reached the main assembly hall of the monastery, many hundreds of disciples had gathered. Among those jostling for a glimpse of their revered guru were hundreds from across the Himalayan region, as well as Tibetans and international disciples.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Concludes Bodhgaya Visit to Participate in Kalachakra Puja

January 11, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

The Gyalwang Karmapa today concluded a brief but fruitful visit to Bodhgaya to receive the Kalachakra for World Peace initiation conferred by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. After arriving on January 3, the Gyalwang Karmapa was also occupied granting daily public audiences to groups ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 people daily. On the final day of the Kalachakra puja, the Gyalwang Karmapa also attended a long-life empowerment and offering ceremony for His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

As many as 300,000 had pilgrims gathered in the village of Bodhgaya for the Kalachakra for World Peace ceremonies. Thousands of Buddhists from across the Himalayan region joined Tibetans coming directly from Tibet itself in what was the most important public religious ceremony in years for the vast community of followers of Tibetan Buddhism in India and around the world.

The first public audience granted by the Gyalwang Karmapa drew over 8,000 newly arrived Tibetans. The Gyalwang Karmapa delivered a rousing hour-long address to the crowd, urging Tibetans within Tibet to unite and to seek out skillful means to preserve Tibetan culture. On the following day, His Holiness the Karmapa received a group of over 10,000 devotees from across the Himalayas, and on subsequent days, received Tibetans living in India, and Indians from across the nation as well as international disciples.

Among the many disciples from overseas on hand to attend the Kalachakra initiation was Richard Gere, who had a private audience with the Gyalwang Karmapa on November 9.

Also attending the Kalachakra puja was Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki also attended a special event to felicitate His Holiness the Dalai Lama on January 10, in which the Gyalwang Karmapa also participated.

During his stay in Bodhgaya, His Holiness the Karmapa further participated in a non-sectarian (rime) prayer gathering, along with His Holiness Sakya Trizin, had of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Ganden Tripa, formal head of the Gelugpa school, and presided over by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The event in Bodhgaya marked the 32nd occasion since 1954 that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has conferred this important initiation. Prior to this, the most recent Kalachakra given by His Holiness the Dalai Lama took place in Washington, DC, USA. The Gyalwang Karmapa also traveled to the US to attend that event last July.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Gives Blessings to 10,000 Himalayan People,Joins His Holiness Dalai Lama, Other Leaders, for Non-Sectarian (Rime) Prayers

January 7, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

Following his earlier address to 8,000 newly-arrived Tibetans, the Gyalwang Karmapa yesterday received over 10,000 people from across the Himalayan region. Large delegations from Ladakh, Spiti, Manali, Kulu, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Sikkim and West Bengal, as well as from Nepal and Bhutan came seeking His Holiness the Karmapa´s blessings. After delivering a Dharma talk to the vast crowd, the Gyalwang Karmapa granted each of the 10,000 people an individual blessing.

The Gyalwang Karmapa yesterday also participated in a pan-Tibetan Buddhist prayer gathering, over which His Holiness the Dalai Lama is presiding in Bodhgaya. Along with the His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Gyalwang Karmapa, His Holiness the Sakya Trizin was also in attendance. HH Sakya Trizin and the Gyalwang Karmapa are the heads of the Sakya and Karma Kagyu orders of Tibetan Buddhism, respectively. The three are the seniormost Tibetan lamas in India, and their joint participation drew crowds so dense that movement around the Mahabodhi Stupa came to a virtual standstill as pilgrims strained for a glimpse of the heads of their faith. For the estimated 300,000 pilgrims on hand for the Kalachakra puja in Bodhgaya, the opportunity to attend prayer sessions with their most revered spiritual leaders was a moment not to be missed.

Called Non-Sectarian Prayer Gathering, or Rimé Monlam, the prayers for world peace are held at the Mahabodhi temple, at the site where Lord Buddha was enlightened two and a half millennia ago.

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Addressing 8,000 Newly-Arrived Tibetans in Bodhgaya, Gyalwang Karmapa Urges Tibetans to Unite, To Preserve Tibetan Culture and Religion

January 6, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

In Bodhgaya yesterday, His Holiness the Gyalwang Karmapa spoke to a large group of 8,000 Tibetans, urging them to unite and preserve Tibetan culture and religion within Tibet. Newly arrived from Tibet, the Tibetans are in Bodhgaya to attend the Kalachakra initiation puja, presided over by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Speaking warmly to the huge gathering, the Gyalwang Karmapa acknowledged the arduous journey the Tibetans had undertaken to reach India. "We received the Buddha dharma that is so precious to us directly from India," he said. "Now, many of us have settled here in exile. Therefore I do not need to tell you how close and profound this relationship between Tibet and India is. From the hardships you yourselves were willing to undertake to come here to this holy place of Bodhgaya, you can perceive this directly. This alone shows very clearly the deep sense of devotion and affection that we Tibetans feel for India."

With reverence, the Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, described His Holiness the Dalai Lama's pivotal role in uniting the Tibetan people. He warmly praised His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his activities and the vast scope of his vision in leading the Tibetan people.

"The main job of you Tibetans within Tibet is to guard and preserve Tibetan culture and religion," the Gyalwang Karmapa said. "It is the job of us Tibetans in India and other free countries to let the world know what is going on within Tibet."

He went on to stress, "I want you to know that we here in exile are well aware of the sufferings and problems you face in Tibet. Do not despair, please think long term and seek out skillful means to guard the Tibetan religion and culture."

Turning to history for lessons on how to do so, he described how Tibetans have safeguarded the Buddhadharma, since the time they received it from India in the 7th century. He observed, "We Tibetans have guarded and handed it down from generation to generation as our most valued inheritance from India. Today the Buddhadharma, with its teachings of non-violence and altruism, remains in the world as a common treasure for all the world to use and enjoy."

In contrast to the flourishing of Buddhism during the earlier period when Tibet was united, the gradual growth of internal squabbling and sectarianism led to decline and landed Tibetans in their current situation, the Gyalwang Karmapa said. However, today, Tibetans are able to overcome internal divisions and unite under the leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, their supreme guide, he added.

Going forward, the Gyalwang Karmapa said, "the main condition that will allow Tibetans to preserve our religion and culture will be to pull together and to stand united." As such, regional and sectarian prejudice and partisanship are grave obstacles. He called on Tibetans to set aside sectarian divisions.

"We all share a common identity as Tibetans," he said. "If that can be kept in mind, then together we can face whatever situations occur."

As his speech drew to a close, the Gyalwang Karmapa spoke of the longing that all Tibetans share to see His Holiness the Dalai Lama return to Tibet, saying he too shared that wish with then. "I always hold you Tibetans in my heart and am continually praying to be able to return and to be able to serve you in Tibet," the Gyalwang Karmapa said.

After speaking to the gathering for over an hour, the Gyalwang Karmapa stood for two hours, giving an individual blessing to each and every member of the 8,000-strong crowd. Many in the crowd were seen weeping, as they experienced what for most is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the most highly revered leaders of their faith. The newly arrived Tibetans had earlier been received by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in similar fashion.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Arrives in Bodhgaya To Receive Kalachakra from His Holiness the Dalai Lama

January 3, 2012 - Bodhgaya.

The Gyalwang Karmapa departed Sarnath this morning for Bodhgaya, where he will receive the Kalachakra Initiation from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. During his stay in Bodhgaya, the Gyalwang Karmapa will also offer audiences to the vast crowd of devotees who have gathered from Tibet and across the Himalayan region.

His Holiness left Vajra Vidya in Sarnath before 9am, and travelled back the same route that Lord Buddha first took after his enlightenment. Meanwhile, in Bodhgaya, by noon the road approaching Tergar Monastery was flanked by a long line of Himalayan people seeking to catch a first glimpse of the Gyalwang Karmapa. The white scarves they planned to offer as a symbol of their respect and devotion fluttering in the wind, those eager to receive the Gyalwang Karmapa waited patiently until around 2pm, when his traveling party finally came within their view.

A large yellow parasol hovered above him as the sound of horns announced the long awaited moment of his arrival, as His Holiness' stay in Buddhism's holiest site has officially begun.

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Chanting in a New Year: Gyalwang Karmapa Begins 2012 with Pujas, Dharma Talk

January 1, 2012- Sarnath, Varanasi.

As an auspicious and joyful start to the new year the Gyalwang Karmapa joined the monastic assembly of Vajra Vidya Institute for prayers and practice, including the Offerings to the 16 Elders practice.

Following the prayers, the Gyalwang Karmapa addressed the assembly, which included visiting international disciples as well as the resident lamas and monks of Vajra Vidya. His Holiness spoke first in Tibetan, and then in English.

Echoing his New Years Message, His Holiness noted that there has been a great deal of talk that the year 2012 will be a year of natural disasters and turmoil. We cannot predict what lies ahead and the potential for great change in our environment and in society is indeed present in any given year, he said. He added that our external environment is very important and also a source of great kindness to us.

Whatever upheaval may occur in the world around us, the root of our happiness and wellbeing remains the same. The cause of the health and happiness we desire for the new year lies within each of us, in our cultivation of inner peace and love towards others, the Gyalwang Karmapa said.

Whatever happens in 2012, our responsibility remains the same: to seek ways to make our brief lives on this planet of utmost benefit.

His Holiness concluded by wishing all—in Tibetan and in English—good health and a happy and meaningful life in 2012.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Visits Dhammekh Stupa, Pays Homage to Sites of Buddha's First Teaching

December 31, 2011- Sarnath, Varanasi.

December 31, 2011 – While the Gyalwang Karmapa's primary focus during this stay in Sarnath is to engage in intensive Mahakala practice in a retreat setting, he paid an auspicious visit on the last day of the year to the Dhammekh stupa in Sarnath. As the site of Lord Buddha's first teaching, the stupa marks one of the holiest sites for Buddhists of all traditions.

Approaching the site solemnly, His Holiness first passed among the remains of the many great monasteries and temples that once made Sarnath a vibrant center for Buddhist study and practice. He then circumambulated the Dhammekh stupa, and engaged in meditative prayer. In the company of a large retinue of monks and nuns, His Holiness the Karmapa recited prayers and praises to Lord Buddha, including the Praise to the Twelve Deeds.

In ancient times, the site was renowned for its herds of deer, co-existing peacefully with the sages and ascetics practicing in the park. As such, it became known as Deer Park. Tibetan monasteries to this day are traditionally marked by a wheel flanked by two deer, a reminder of the momentous event that took place on this site millennia ago, when Lord Buddha first began teaching the Dharma that had set him free and that countless others would then use to free themselves from suffering over the centuries.

In gentle homage to that history—and as an act of generosity—His Holiness detoured to a section of the park that is still home to deer, pausing to give food to them.

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Preserving a Unique Spiritual Art Form,Gyalwang Karmapa Instructs Torma Makers

December 30, 2011- Sarnath, Varanasi.

His Holiness the Karmapa today addressed a group of 80 butter sculptors, including monks and nuns from over 35 monasteries and nunneries. Tibetan butter sculptures, sometimes loosely referred to tormas, are ritual cakes typically made of butter and other substances and often beautifully decorated. Each year, His Holiness appoints teams to create a dazzling visual feast of such images of buddhas, bodhisattvas and other holy beings. These butter sculptures are displayed as an offering on the altar set up before the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, Buddhism´s most sacred place, during the annual Kagyu Monlam prayer gathering. The making of butter sculpture is practiced widely across all sects of Tibetan Buddhism, with detailed guidelines regulating what sort of butter sculpture should be offered on various ritual occasions.

In order to preserve this unique form of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual art, His Holiness had requested two senior masters from Bhutan to spend an intensive period transmitting their knowledge and skills to a younger generation of butter sculptors. Among those apprenticing under Lama Sonam Rinchen and Gen Tsering Paljor, the two master butter scupltors, are Tsurphu Labrang's own ritual master, Osel Nyingpo, and thangka painter, Karma Wangchuk. In the talk the Gyalwang Karmapa gave at Vajra Vidya Insitute in Varanasi, he offered the group encouragement and guidance on how to approach their art as a spiritual practice.

His Holiness commented that because of the great gathering of heart sons, lamas and monastics, who serve as a special field of merit, Kagyu Monlam offers particularly powerful conditions for accumulating merit or good karma. Given such an ideal opportunity, it was appropriate to make extra efforts to create vast and high-quality offerings, without taking any shortcuts. Yet he cautioned against allowing any feelings or pride or competitiveness, comparing their butter sculptures with those of other lineages.

His Holiness noted that long-life pujas would be offered this year to the heart sons His Eminences Tai Situ Rinpoche and Gyaltsab Rinpoche, and that he himself was also planning to pass the pre-losar period in Bodhgaya, performing the accompanying gutor rituals in an expanded manner. As such, an especially large number of people were likely to view this year's butter sculptures before and during Kagyu Monlam. For this reason, the team should undertake their task with a wish to cause joy to all those who saw the sculptures, and to inspire them to greater virtue. In this way, the act of making butter sculptures could become especially beneficial for them and for others.

Since each color and artistic element of the different kinds of butter sculptures had deep symbolic meanings, it was important for them to learn and hold those meanings in mind, His Holiness said. As he spoke, the Gyalwang Karmapa consistently spoke of their work in the same terms as used for images of deities in painting and metal sculptures, emphasizing that the butter sculptors are, in fact, creating sacred images.

Furthermore, the Gyalwang Karmapa pointed out that butter sculpting had begun to attract international attention as a unique Tibetan art form, and this should encourage them all to value and enhance their own knowledge and skills in this art. (Under the Gyalwang Karmapa's direction, a documentary film about butter sculptures is currently under way. Find out more about this project at: www.tormafilm.com)

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Thousands of Himalayan People Seek Gyalwang Karmapa's Blessings In Varanasi

December 29, 2011- Sarnath, Varanasi.

From the moment of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa's arrival in Varanasi, the monastery where he is residing has been thronged by thousands of people from across India's Himalayan belt and Tibet, all seeking the Gyalwang Karmapa's blessings.

During his past visits to Varanasi, Gyalwang Karmapa has typically offered public audiences on alternating days, inside the monastery building. However, due to the large numbers of people seeking the blessing of the Gyalwang Karmapa, His Holiness is now holding daily public audiences. Many Tibetans newly arrived from Tibet, as well as people from Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Kulu, Manali and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh all have converged in central India in advance of the Kalachakra initiation to be given next week in Bodhgaya by Tibetan Buddhism's supreme leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Pilgrims coming to attend the Kalachakra are taking what is for many of them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive the additional blessings of the Gyalwang Karmapa.   

To accommodate the overwhelming requests for blessings, His Holiness the Karmapa is holding daily public audience outdoors, on the grounds in front of the monastery's main hall in Varanasi.

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New Year's Message from the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje

December 28, 2011

Many people have expressed anxiety about disasters that might befall the world in the year 2012. In fact, we never know what any given year might hold. But if we are sincerely committed to following a path of compassion and wisdom, this uncertainty about the future need not cause us any concern. Whatever happens, we simply keep our focus directed steadily at what matters most—cultivating compassion and equanimity, and acting to benefit others. If we harbor this attitude in our hearts, we can make anything that occurs positive for ourselves and for others.

The year 2011 itself brought many unanticipated challenges—to our natural environment and to many human communities. My heartfelt prayers go to all those who suffered in the turmoil of this year.

I wish especially to offer my prayers to all those who connected with me in any way during this year, as well as to all who will connect in the future. May you find lasting happiness and true peace. May all of us who share this planet go forward together into the new year in harmony. May we live this year with mutual love and respect for one another and for the earth that is our common home.

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Golden Procession Welcomes Gyalwang Karmapa Upon Arrival in Varanasi

December 27, 2011

His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, departed Delhi today for Varanasi, after successfully concluding the three-day Karmapa 900 Delhi commemoration in the nation's capital. His arrival was eagerly anticipated at Vajra Vidya in Sarnath, the monastery of the Gyalwang Karmapa's principal tutor, Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche.  

In preparation for His Holiness' arrival in Sarnath, the monks of Vajra Vidya decorated the road leading to the monastery with white chalk, drawing auspicious signs of welcome. Long before His Holiness' flight had even landed at the airport in Varanasi, the abbots and monks donned their ceremonial robes, and began rehearsing their instruments.  

As the car carrying the Gyalwang Karmapa reached the road leading to the noanstery's gates, a golden procession of monastics wearing their best brocade played a musical welcome and solemnly escorted His Holiness forward. By the time the procession had reached the main assembly hall of the monastery, many hundreds of disciples had gathered. Among those jostling for a glimpse of their revered guru were hundreds from across the Himalayan region, as well as Tibetans and international disciples.

  Upon arrival, the Gyalwang Karmapa paid homage at the central image of Vajra Vidya's shrine hall: Shakyamuni Buddha, as befits this monastery, located at the site of Lord Buddha's first Dharma teaching.  

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Day Two: Karmapa 900 Delhi Gyalwang Karmapa Teaches On "Ancient Wisdom, Modern World"

December 24, 2011 - Delhi.

Day Two of Karmapa 900 Delhi offered a vivid demonstration of Ancient Wisdom applied to the Modern World. The day's program was entirely devoted to Dharma teachings by His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.

Through the practice of recognizable reincarnation that the First Karmapa founded, for 900 years, the Karmapas have kept alive and fresh all the wisdom of the Dharma lineages they hold from India. The achievement of Dusum Khyenpa was visible in all its glory today, as the audience witnessed the wisdom carried by the Karmapa lineage displayed in a new form ideally suited to our historical moment. The Karmapa of the 21st century—the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa—is entrusted with delivering Buddhist teachings in a way that keeps them fully relevant to our modern times.

During the morning session, His Holiness spoke of the history of the Karmapa lineage, sharing seldom-recounted incidents from the life of the First Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa. He also spoke candidly of his own experience bearing the noble name of Karmapa. (See excerpt below.) He exhorted the audience to embrace fully the opportunity to transform their minds in everyday life. "The practice of dharma is about making a fresh change with our mind," the Gyalwang Karmapa said. "We have to give our mind something new to do, and not just allow it to follow its old habitual patterns." The afternoon session comprised practical instructions in how to do so.

Meanwhile, in the global spirit of the day, the teachings were webcast with translation into 10 different languages—English, Hindi, Chinese, Spanish, German, French, Polish, Russian, Korean and Vietnamese. Over 1,000 viewers watched the webcast from computers all around the world.

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Karmapa 900 Delhi: Day One - A Tribute to the Indian Roots Of the Karmapa Lineage

December 23, 2011 - Delhi.

Before a crowd composed of disciples and delegates from nearly every state in India and from 44 countries around the world, Karmapa 900 Delhi began a three-day gala event to commemorate the 900th birth anniversary of the First Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa. Today's event was focused on paying tribute to the Indian roots of the Karma Kagyu lineage.

To open the day's activities, His Holiness the 17th Karmapa travelled to the National Museum of India to pay solemn homage to the relics of Lord Buddha enshrined there. With the aim of creating harmony among all faiths, a gathering of leaders from virtually all the major world religions gathered at Rajghat, the monument to Mahatma Gandhi, joining their voices in interfaith prayer.

Hindu priests opened the event at Gandhi's memorial with Vedic chants, and were followed by prayers from the Jain, Jewish, Parsi, Christian, Sikh, Muslim and Baha'i spiritual traditions. Several hundred followers attended the interfaith gathering, which marked the first public activity of Karmapa 900 Delhi.

Following the formal event, the leaders joined Gyalwang Karmapa for tea and a lovely exchange of views in an informal setting.

Meanwhile, back at the main venue for Karmapa 900 Delhi, before the afternoon session even began, the crowd already filled the ballroom of the Grand Hotel and began spilling out into the adjacent outdoor patio. Advance registration had been closed within a week when the number of attendees hit 850, yet visitors who had travelled from overseas to attend pleaded their case to be allowed admission without having registered. In the end, nearly a thousand people were on hand when His Holiness arrived to commence the session.

A traditional Tibetan procession escorted a rare and exceptional statue of the First Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa renowned for having uttered human speech. For centuries the statue attracted pilgrims from all over eastern Tibet to Ripa Barma monastery in Kham, where it was housed until the communist Chinese invasion of Tibet. The statue was brought to safety in India shortly before Ripa Barma was destroyed, and currently serves as the most precious holy object at the rebuilt Ripa Barma Monastery in the state of Karnataka.

After His Holiness and the chief guest had offered a lamp, a brief account of the historical ties between the Karmapa lineage and India was offered by the master of ceremonies, Choechung Wangchuk, member of the parliament of the Tibetan administration in exile. To begin with, the First Karmapa trained intensively in the cultivation of bodhicitta and meditation techniques taught by the great Indian mahasiddhas Saraha, Tilopa and Naropa. His lineage then transmitted those teachings for the next 900 years in Tibet.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Confers Blessings To Nearly a Thousand Himalayan People 

December 14, 2011 - Gyuto, Dharamsala

Nearly a thousand people from across the Himalayan region, including many Tibetans newly-arrived from Tibet, sought darshan and blessings from His Holiness the Karmapa yesterday afternoon. His Holiness gave an oral transmission of the Compassion Buddha practice to the large gathering, followed by an individual blessings to every person present.  

 The blessings were conferred at Gyuto Monastery as part of the Gyalwang Karmapa's normally scheduled public audiences, held every Wednesday and Saturday when His Holiness is in residence in Dharamsala.

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Official Statement from Karmapa Office of Administration

(9 December, 2011) In the light of the recent media reports, Karmapa's Office of Administration wishes to reassure His Holiness the Karmapa's disciples in India and around the world and the concerned public that as of today we have received no court orders. The matter remains under judicial consideration and we cannot therefore comment further at this stage.

Since the outset of the investigations, His Holiness' office of administration has been co-operating fully with the investigating agencies. We had provided them with full documents and details regarding the case. During this entire process, His Holiness the Karmapa was never at any point called or examined by the investigating agency. His Holiness has no involvement, direct or indirect, in the financial administration or managing the day-to-day affairs of the office or trust.

The cash seized earlier this year came from donations offered by disciples from around the world who come to see His Holiness and pay their respects to him, often leaving behind cash donations. This cash is managed by the Karmapa Office of Administration. That office has been actively seeking permission under the Foreign Currency Regulation Act (FCRA), and their application is still pending before the Government of India.

The Karmapa reincarnation lineage has a 900-year history of engaging in a vast range of spiritual activities, from teaching Dharma to rigorous meditation to composing philosophical texts. The Tsurphu Labrang, known now as the Karmapa Office of Administration, has existed for hundreds of years to allow the Karmapas to devote their time and energy to their role as spiritual leaders. It manages all the worldly affairs of the Karmapa, including handling the donations and administering the finances. In this way, the Karmapa has been left free to fulfill his solemn duties as spiritual guide to millions of followers and leader of a worldwide Buddhist order.

Contact details: Press Spokesperson Karma Chungyalpa (91) 9736696066

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Gyalwang Karmapa Delivers Inaugural Address to Environmental Section at Global Buddhist Congregation

November 28, 2011- Park Hotel, Delhi

His Holiness the Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, today delivered the inaugural address at the Global Buddhist Congregation's section on "Environment and the Natural World." Opening the daylong session, the Gyalwang Karmapa addressed a packed hall of hundreds of delegates gathered from 32 countries around the world. The Gyalwang Karmapa will also attend the closing ceremony, which will be presided over by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and joined by a suite of world figures.

During his inaugural address, the Gyalwang Karmapa spoke on the underlying causes that have brought us to what he describes as a 'critical juncture' in the degradation of our natural environment. Among those causes, His Holiness focused on a virtual "religion of consumerism" and a persistent egocentrism that has led to an unhealthy relationship between human beings and their environment. Applying Buddhist principles of interdependence, compassion, and no-self, the Gyalwang Karmapa outlined a Buddhist response to the environmental challenge facing the world today.

His Holiness spoke strongly against the consumer culture that has overtaken our global society. He acknowledged that world religions are in agreement that material prosperity does not translate into real happiness and wellbeing. Yet he went on to say that religious leaders have a responsibility to do more to open their followers' eyes to the failure of consumerism to bring lasting happiness.

We appear to be in a dangerous state of denial about the consequences of our actions on the environment, the Gyalwang Karmapa stated. "The essential problem," he said, "lies in the way we conceive of ourselves in relation to others, including the environment. We feel we are separate individuals, but in fact nothing exists independently."

"Former generations may conceivably be excused for the harmful consequences of their actions," His Holiness the Karmapa said. "But our generation cannot, as we have access to an abundance of information on the environmental impact of our current lifestyle." He continued, "Our task now is to turn information into an awareness that we feel in our hearts, and that can inspire us to live according to environmentally wise and compassionate principles."

His Holiness called on the audience to interact with the natural world in such a way that they cultivate and extend a mandala of love and compassion, based on the model of the relationship between mother and child.

Speaking earlier on his participation at the Global Buddhist Congregation, the Gyalwang Karmapa said: "Addressing the changes in our environment is one of the most pressing issues of our day. As His Holiness the Dalai Lama has long pointed out, the harm done to our environment is rooted in human minds and behavior.  Because this problem arises from our attitudes towards the world we live in, I believe world religious leaders can contribute greatly to a change in our relationship to the earth and to our patterns of consumption of her resources.  I am very pleased that the Global Buddhist Congregation is making the environment a focus during its meeting in Delhi, and am honored to be given this opportunity to be part of global Buddhist conversations on this important issue."

Over the course of the past five years, the Gyalwang Karmapa has taken an increasingly active role in championing an issue dear to his heart—the protection of the natural environment. Taking up a call that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has long urged, the Gyalwang Karmapa is emerging as one of the most vocal Buddhist environment leaders, speaking and acting on Buddhist principles of caring for the environment that supports the lives of all of us who share this planet. He has organized conferences, founded a region-wide an activist organization — Khoryug (the Tibetan term for Environment) — and contributed to various academic and scientific publications on the issue.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Writes for Scientific Journal, Outlining Vision of "Environmental Buddhism"

November 18, 2011

Conservation Biology, the most influential scientific journal in its field, has invited His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa to contribute an article outlining his vision of "Environmental Buddhism." Entitled "Walking the Path of Environmental Buddhism through Compassion and Emptiness," the article explores His Holiness' personal reasons for becoming an environmentalist, offers a masterful explanation of the overlap between Buddhist philosophy and environmental ideology, and ends with a call to action to protect the environment.

"As I grew up and began studying Buddhist philosophy and teachings," His Holiness explained, "I discovered great harmony between Buddhism and the environmental movement. The emphasis on biological diversity, including ecosystems—in particular, the understanding that animate and inanimate beings are parts of a whole—resonates closely with Buddhism's emphasis on interdependence."

The article goes on to present Buddhist concepts of compassion and emptiness as they relate to environmental activism. It suggests ways they could serve to support the journal's mainly scientific readers in their own work to conserve the biological diversity of our planet.

In this article, which will appear in the journal's December 2011 issue, the Gyalwang Karmapa displays his characteristic merging of action for the benefit of society with the cultivation of inner qualities that can render that action sustainable. "For society to successfully address the environmental challenges of the 21st century," he wrote, "we have to connect these challenges to the individual choices people face on a daily basis. We cannot simply address the political and scientific aspects of problems such as climate change, intensive extraction of natural resources, deforestation, and wildlife trade. We must also address the social and cultural aspects of these problems by awakening human values and creating a movement for compassion, so that our very motivation in becoming environmentalists is to benefit other living beings."

The article can be read in full online. It can also be downloaded here as a PDF from www.khoryug.com, the website devoted to His Holiness' environmental protection programmes.

The Gyalwang Karmapa was invited to contribute this article for inclusion in this distinguished journal's 25th-anniversary edition. A highly respected and widely cited journal, Conservation Biology publishes groundbreaking papers and is instrumental in defining the key issues contributing to the science and practice of conserving Earth's biological diversity. The invitation to contribute to the journal's 25th edition was extended to His Holiness the Karmapa in recognition of his role as young religious leader with a global reach who can not only influence and inspire others, but who has also demonstrated his own commitment to take action on environmental issues.

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statement by gyalwang Karmapa- november 9, 2011

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Gyalwang Karmapa Offers Prayers for those Affected by Recent Disasters

November 1,2011- Vajra Vidhya Varanasi.

His Holiness Karmapa went to the Dhamekh Stupa in Sarnath to pay his respects to the place where the Buddha first taught, and to offer prayers there for the removal of the obstacles of natural disasters: the floods, earthquakes. He also prayed for the health of Tenga Rinpoche and Bayo Rinpoche, and for the Tibetan cause, in particular regarding the monks and a nun who have died recently through self immolation.

He also visited other shrines in the area, including the Sri Lankan temple, the Mulugund Koti Vihara, and fed to the many young deer in the Deer Park.

Then he led the sangha, many from Vajra Vidhya Institute, in the Samantabdhra Puja and the Sixteen Arhats Puja which lasted for few hours. Flowers adorned His Holiness's throne on the east lawn of the Damekh stupa. Under the golden umbrella, and preceded by the sounds of the gyaling and incense bearers, His Holiness left quickly when the prayers had concluded.

His Holiness also sent his sister, Ngodup Palzom, with a small group, to offer a life release of several thousand fish into the Ganges river. The merit from this was also dedicated to Tenga Rinpoche and Bayoe Rinpoche.

Gyalwang Karmapa Receives Morari Bapu

The day ended on a lighter note when Morari Bapu, a Hindu master, came to meet with His Holiness. He was welcomed by the monks of Vajra Vidya Institute.

They were accompanied by members of Tsurphu Labrang, Kagyu Monlam staff and international devotees. Also present were a band of newspaper reporters and cameramen, with numerous Indian and Sri Lankan followers.

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Gyalwang Karmapa Teaches on Compassion

October 27,2011- Tergar Monastery Bodhgaya.

This morning His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa gave a teaching on Compassion in the main shrine hall of Tergar Monastery at the request of Tsoknyi Rinpoche and Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, here on pilgrimages with some 150 students from all over the world.

Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche's translator acted as translator.

The veranda around Tergar gompa was filled with happy dharma practitioners, representative of many western countries, in anticipation of the teaching on this sunny morning. They slowly filed into the beautiful gompa and settled themselves into the peaceful silence.

His Holiness opened the teaching by playfully complaining that although this was meant to be a "secret holiday" in Bodh Gaya, he was now being given "lots of jobs to do".

He then went on to explain that the root of bodhicitta is compassion. He stated that we cannot solve the problems of suffering in this modern age through technologies nor techniques. Suffering comes from within, from ego clinging. We focus on "me and mine", constructing a boundary which separates what we consider to be ourselves, our families and friends, and our things on the inside, and on the outside, all that we see to be opposed to "me and mine". From the inside, we feel safe and well. However, there is no "me".

Compassion is about breaking down this boundary and sense of separation. We actually live in a vast network of relationships in which all are interdependent with one another. This is in accordance with the natural state of being. Today, because of the internet and global on-line communities, one person can have an impact, however.

He explained that we need to have a balance in our view of compassion between ourselves and others. Until that time when we are established as bodhisattvas, we cannot just think of others without taking care of ourselves.

We should be mindful of when we are experiencing happiness and suffering and how that feels, and then remember that all sentient beings wish to experience happiness and not to experience suffering.

As human beings, unlike other sentient beings, we all have the capacity to plan the future. We must be mindful of the impact of our decisions on other sentient beings - bringing them either happiness or suffering. For example, meat may seem like just a food for our enjoyment, but we should remember that this flesh we are eating was once the body of a sentient being.

Compassion is not just about kind acts; actually it is about being aware of the suffering of other sentient beings from the view of the actual nature of things.

His Holiness concluded the teaching session by giving mantra transmissions: the mantra of Shakyamuni Buddha, Tara, Guru Rinpoche and Chenrezig, before blessing each person individually. As the audience calmly left the shrine room, khatas around their necks, their faces shone with joy.

Kagyu Office wishes to thank Stefanie Selden, Sherry Wiggins and Karma Rinchen Dolma for making this available.

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GYALWANG KARMAPA PAYS HOMAGE AT MAHABODHI STUPA.

October 25,2011- Bodhgaya.

The Gyalwang Karmapa left in the morning with a small entourage to pay homage at the central shrine of Buddhism, the Mahabodhi Temple, home to the Bodhi tree and other sites linked with the time when Shakyamuni Buddha attained enlightenment.

The Gyalwang Karmapa was welcomed by the Head Monk-in-Charge of the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee. His Holiness was escorted in procession through the Mahabodhi Stupa Ground and went directly to the main shrine room. Having prostrated three times, he presented traditional offerings of light, fruit, flowers, a donation and a new golden silk robe for the Buddha image, and recited prayers.

Leaving the shrine room, Gyalwang Karmapa walked around to the area behind the temple, under the Bodhi tree, he prostrated three times and returned back to Tergar Monastery.

His Holiness arrived in Bodhgaya on October 23 and will be staying until October 30, he will visit Varanasi and return back to Gyuto on November 5.

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Karmapa Current Activities:
archived news about His Holiness Karmapa

For past news about His Holiness Karmapa's activities click here.

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His Holiness Karmapa's Regular Activities

Visiting the Karmapa

• His Holiness typically gives public audiences on Saturdays and Wednesdays when in residence.
  
  
• Information on how to visit His Holiness in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, India
  

His Holiness Gyalwang Karmapa, from a recent photograph. His Holiness is now 26 years of age (according to the reckoning of the Western calendar system).

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kagyu office Administrative Structure & Contact Information

The preliminary restructuring of the Office of Administration of the Gyalwang Karmapa has been reviewed. The structure w.e.f 23rd September, 2010 is as follows:

Tsurphu Labrang Dharamshala (Karmapa's office of Administration)

Mailing Address:

Camp: Gyuto Tantric University
P. O. Sidhbari-176 057
Dharamshala, District Kangra (H.P.) INDIA

Tel: +91 1892-235307
Fax: +91 1982-235744

1. Ven Drupon Rinpoche, General Secretary
   Cell phone: +91 9418390690
   Email: gs2karmapa@gmail.com or gs2karmapa@yahoo.com
   
   
2. Mr. Karma Chugyalpa, Deputy General Secretary
   Cell phone: +91 7602530705
   kargyal@gmail.com
   
   
3. Thupten Sherab, Accounts cum Appointment Secretary (Tibetan)
   Phone: +91 9418294401
   tl.accn@gmail.com
   
   
4. Lama Phuntsok, Publicity & Publishing Manager
   tl.info.co@gmail.com
   
   
5. Karma Tenkyong Wangpo, Human Resource Manager
   Phone: +91 9882329664
   tl.hrmanager@gmail.com
   
   
6. Gompo Tsering, Public Relation Officer
   Phone: +91 9816045556
   tl.proffice@gmail.com
   
   
7. Karma Thinley Yongdu, Supplies & Procurement Manager
   Tsering Phuntsok
   Phone: +91 9816628697
   
   
8. Chemed Choegyal, Appointment Secretary (English)
   Phone: +91 9816315336
   tl.sy.eng@gmail.com
   
   
9. Mr. Sonam Tsewang, Delhi Branch Office Manager
   Phone: +91 9818943684
   tl.delhioffice@gmail.com
   
   
10. Khenpo Ghawang, Coordinator (Recognizing and Reincarnation and Matters)
    Phone: +91 9434300350
    tl.crrm@gmail.com
    
    
11. Karma Tsultrim Tharchin, Asst. Coordinator (Recognizing and Reincarnation Matters)
    Phone: +91 9418080378
    tl.acrrm@gmail.com
    
    
12. Woser Rabten, Coordinator (Monastery & Dharma Center Matters)
    Phone: +91-9882009544
    tl.cmdc2010@gmail.com

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kagyu office websites in Chinese and French

Chinese language Website

The Kagyu Office maintains an official Chines-language website for His Holiness Karmapa at www.kagyuoffice.org.tw.

FRENCH LANGUAGE WEBSITE

A French-language version of the website for His Holiness Gyalwang Karmapa has been opened under the auspices of His Holiness Karmapas Office of Administration: www.kagyuoffice-fr.org.

 

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