from Sherab Wangchuk, February 23, 2018
Losar 2018 Celebrating the New Year of the Earth Dog a new era for Benchen Monastery. H.E. Drubwang Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche & Tenga Rinpoche Yangsi This great Losar celebration was very special for several reasons: This was the first Losar where both Drubwang Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche and Tenga Rinpoche Yangsi celebrated together. This joyous occasion was attended by the mothers and fathers of both Rinpoches, along with the Benchen community. His Eminence Drubwang Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche gave the precious oral transmission of the Jampal Tsenjö, Manjushri Prayer. According to Tibetan astrology this first day of the Tibetan New Year was a very suitable and perfect day for the start of great activities such as the education for the Yangsi. In particular, Rinpoche gave this transmission in order for Yangsi Rinpoche to be learned in his development. Prior to the transmission, Rinpoche purposely gave an introduction pointing out the importance of developing wisdom through the hearing, contemplation and meditation of the teachings of the Buddha. Rinpoche also talked about how to bring up a tulku; emphasising the need for those who are responsible for Yangsi's education to ensure that he is not spoiled by over-indulgence and gadgets. Then when Rinpoche lead the recitation of the Manjushri Prayer he filled the whole monastery with his voice. The ceremony concluded with the offering of khataks and presentation of khapse. Many devotees visited Rinpoche for the New Year and enjoyed Losar lunch.