Report: China exploiting Kalachakra ritual for control in Tibet

China has been accused of using a major Kalachakra ceremony in Shigatse to reinforce state control over Tibetan Buddhism and religious authority. From 9–12 October 2025, the Chinese-appointed 11th Panchen Lama, Gyaltsen Norbu, presided over the four-day ritual at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, attended by thousands of monks and officials. According to Tibet Watch, the event served Beijing’s “Sinicisation” policy, promoting political loyalty rather than spiritual devotion. The organisation warned that such state-orchestrated rituals are designed to legitimise China’s control over reincarnation and weaken authentic Tibetan religious institutions.