808th Mahaparinirvana of Lord Jigten Sumgon observed at Phyang with grand offerings

By Reach Ladakh Correspondent Leh, Jun 21, 2025
Mandala offerings from councillors and community leaders during the grand offering ceremony at Photang Gatsaling, Gaon Tashi Choszang Monastery, Phyang.
Leh :

A grand offering ceremony was held at Photang Gatsaling, Gaon Tashi Choszang Monastery, Phyang on June 20, to commemorate the 808th Mahaparinirvana Anniversary of Lord Jigten Sumgon, the revered founder of the Drikung Kagyu lineage and venerated as the Dharma Lord of the Three Realms.

The spiritual event was graced by His Eminence Khanchen Konchok Rangdol Rinpoche as the Chief Guest and witnessed the presence of numerous dignitaries, including Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson; Councillor Tundup Nurbu (Phyang Constituency); Ven. Konchok Tsepal, nominated Sanga Councillor; and Phuntsog Nurboo, nominated Councillor.

Also in attendance were Ven. Dorje Stanzin, President, Ladakh Gonpa Association; Kunzes Dolma, Women’s President, LBA; Jigmet Rabstan, Youth President, LBA; senior spiritual teachers including Khanpo Konchok Stanzin, Khanpo Shasdup Konchok, and Khanpo Konchok Rigzin; representatives of Go Green Go Organic, Goba members, and a large gathering of villagers from Phyang and neighboring areas.

Jointly organized by the villagers of Phyang and the Phyang monastic community, the event received generous sponsorship from the revered monastic institutions of Gaon Tashi Choszang, Yundrung Tharpaling, and Shachukul Phuntsog Chosling Monasteries. Their continued support remains vital in upholding the sacred traditions of the region.
The ceremony commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamps by H.E. Khanchen Konchok Rangdol Rinpoche and CEC Tashi Gyalson, followed by mandala offerings from councillors and community leaders. The spiritual atmosphere was enriched with prayers offered by the young monks of Ratnashri School, traditional dances by Ama Tsogspa, and cultural presentations by youth groups from Shara and Phyang villages.

In his address, Councillor Tundup Nurbu expressed sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble CEC and LAHDC Leh for their consistent support toward the holistic development of Phyang village.

Speaking on the occasion, CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson paid heartfelt tribute to the profound teachings of Lord Jigten Sumgon and urged everyone to continue following the spiritual path laid down by the great lamas. He commended H.E. Khanchen Konchok Rangdol Rinpoche for his tireless spiritual service and proudly highlighted Ladakh’s contribution to the Drikung lineage, noting that the Third Khanchen hails from the region.

He further emphasized the importance of inner motivation and righteous conduct, stating, “When your intentions are pure, everything naturally falls into place.”
The ceremony stood as a powerful reminder of the enduring spiritual legacy of Lord Jigten Sumgon and his timeless message of compassion, wisdom, and devotion.