In the morning of February 20, 2021, which marks 68 years since Guru Vajradhara the 12th Chamgon Kenting Tai Situpa’s physical manifestation was born on this Earth, his birthday celebration began with the entire monastic communities of Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat and its branch Palpung Yeshe Rabgye Ling Nunnery performing a smoke offering.

At the monastic seat, tulkus and khenpos offered a mandala along with representations of the Buddha’s body, speech, and mind in front of Guru Vajradhara’s throne. Then, everyone present offered a ceremonial scarf, which was followed by a combination of traditional and contemporary birthday celebrations.

At the nunnery, Guru Vajradhara was escorted from his chambers into the main temple by a golden procession. After an offering of a mandala and three sacred representations, as well as traditional tea and sweet rice, the nuns sang auspicious birthday wishes and a feast song with beautiful melodies, along with chanting “Calling the Guru from Afar” and long-life prayers. Guru Vajradhara’s joyful birthday celebration was concluded with a contemporary celebration with birthday cakes and sweets.

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