Historic First: Shugsep Nunnery to Enthrone 19 Nuns as Khenmos

Shugsep Nunnery and Institute in Dharamshala will make history on February 18 by holding its inaugural Khenmo enthronement ceremony for 19 nuns. The Khenmo title, equivalent to the male Khenpo, represents the highest scholarly rank in the Nyingma tradition. Unlike the exam-based Geshema degree, eligibility for Khenmo relies on nine years of rigorous study, four years of service, and unblemished moral conduct. The ceremony, led by Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche, marks a pivotal advancement for gender equality in Tibetan Buddhism, empowering these women to assume senior leadership and teaching roles.