His Holiness Dalai Lama to visit Sikkim: Deepening spiritual ties and enlightening teachings

His first visit was in 1956 during his journey to Delhi, marking a significant link between the region and the Dalai Lamas

Reported by Prakash Adhikari | Copy edited by Bhargobi Khaund

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, will be visiting Sikkim for the eighth time, strengthening the emotional and spiritual connection. The Dalai Lama is expected to arrive at 11 am today. He will land at the Army Helipad at Libing. The Tibetan Spiritual Leader will be in the state till December 14.

His first visit was in 1956 during his journey to Delhi, marking a significant link between the region and the Dalai Lamas.

The Dalai Lama’s visits are seen as expressions of love and compassion, preserving goodwill established by his predecessors. Sikkimese devotees eagerly await his arrival, considering it a result of their good karma.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang played a key role in inviting the Dalai Lama, showcasing the strong bond between Sikkim and the spiritual leader. On November 8 2019, the Chief Minister made his first official visit to Dharamshala to invite the Dalai Lama to Sikkim. The visit had been scheduled for the summer of 2020 but was postponed due to Covid. As a sign of his devotion to the Dalai Lama and his desire to have him bless the people of Sikkim, Chief Minister PS Golay sought the spiritual master’s blessing in October 2023 in his second request. This date was also postponed because of a natural disaster in Sikkim that occured on October 3.

The Dalai Lama is set to impart teachings on December 12 at Paljor Stadium to over 40,000 devotees about the “Thirty-seven Practices of Bodhisattvas,” a revered text that emphasizes enlightenment and Bodhichitta.

The historical ties between the Dalai Lamas and Sikkim date back to 1642 AD when the fifth Dalai Lama recognized the first king of Sikkim. This relationship has played a role in protecting Sikkim from invasions and contributing to peaceful coexistence.

The Dalai Lama’s past visits to Sikkim include teachings on Buddhist principles, initiation ceremonies, and contributions to the preservation of Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama’s emphasis on love, compassion, and human values resonates with Sikkimese devotees.

On his current visit, the Dalai Lama is set to provide teachings on the Bodhisattva path, emphasizing Bodhichitta, a key practice in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. The teachings aim to benefit all sentient beings and promote inner peace.

Sikkimese devotees hope for spiritual development in these challenging times and eagerly anticipate the Dalai Lama’s guidance. The visit holds special significance, reinforcing the enduring connection between Sikkim and the revered spiritual master.

Also Read : Sikkim CM meets NDMA officers, discusses post disaster management assessment

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