His Holiness the Dalai Lama presided over the convocation ceremony of Gelukpa University in Bodh Gaya, India, where he awarded Geshé Lharampa degrees to graduates of the past four years. This event, as reported by His Holiness the Dalai Lama‘s official website, was a significant occasion for Tibetan Buddhism and education.
The convocation began with His Holiness being welcomed by the abbots of the great monastic learning centers – Ganden, Drepung, and Sera. He was seated on stage alongside notable figures such as Ganden Tri Rinpoché and Jangtsé Chöjé Rinpoché. The proceedings opened with a verse of homage to the Buddha, followed by a welcome address from ORTC Director Tsering Dorjee and an introductory address by Dr. Yogesh G.H., Deputy Director of Agriculture at DATC, Nagahanalli.
The event highlighted the resilience and perseverance of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. According to His Holiness’s website, after the turmoil in Tibet in 1959, many Tibetans, including monastics, found refuge in India. They established a camp in Buxaduar, where, under the guidance of His Holiness and his tutors, the Geshé Lharam examination board was formed.
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Ganden Tri Rinpoché emphasized the importance of the graduates’ studies and the tradition of entering Gyudmé or Gyudtö Tantric College after receiving their Geshé degree. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, in his address, focused on the essence of Buddha‘s teachings, emphasizing the cultivation of the awakening mind of bodhicitta and insight into emptiness.
His Holiness also noted the importance of integrating study, reflection, and practice in understanding and living the teachings of Buddha. He highlighted the significance of applying logic and reason to teachings and encouraged the graduates to put their learning into practice.
The convocation also included a collective recitation of the ‘Heart Sutra’ led by His Holiness, dedicated to the victims of a recent earthquake in Japan. This gesture underscored the universality and compassion inherent in Buddhist teachings.
The ceremony concluded with more than 300 Geshé graduates receiving their degree certificates and taking photos with His Holiness.
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