21,000 gather in Zanskar for Dalai Lama’s Dharma teachings

Amid the serene mountains of Zanskar valley in Ladakh, thousands of devotees gathered near Karsha Monastery to receive teachings from the 14th Dalai Lama. According to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), an estimated 21,000 people, including monks, nuns, laypeople, and schoolchildren, assembled on July 25 for a special Dharma discourse held at Karsha Phodrang, Ladakh. The Dalai Lama arrived at the site of several groups engaged in lively debate, a traditional part of Tibetan Buddhist learning. With a warm smile and a wave, he took his seat on the throne prepared for him. The teaching began with the recitation of the ‘Heart Sutra’ in Tibetan, followed by verses from Ornament for Clear Realisation and a symbolic mandala offering. A chant echoed across the valley: “May the sound of the great dharma drum dispel the misery of sentient beings,” the CTA reported. In a gesture that delighted the local crowd, His Holiness donned a traditional Zanskari Lama’s hat before beginning his teachings. “It’s my aim today to give everyone here an introduction to the teaching of the Buddha,” he began, emphasising the preservation and flourishing of the Dharma in the Himalayan region. Highlighting the purpose of Buddhist practice, the Dalai Lama explained that Cho, the Tibetan term for Dharma, means “that which protects,” urging followers to study and find out what it protects them from. He offered an in-depth explanation of the Three Principles of the Path, the determination to be free, the awakening mind of bodhichitta, and the correct view of emptiness, foundational elements for inner transformation and peace. “When I face difficulties,” he said, “I reflect on the awakening mind of bodhichitta and the view of emptiness. These help me stay calm and steady.” (ANI)

Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Attends Dalai Lama’s Spiritual Gathering in Ladakh

Also Watch: