Nyingma Institute celebrates silver jubilee

GANGTOK, 20 Oct: Silver jubilee celebrations of the Nyingma Institute Taktse here began at the institute’s campus on 18 October with the Roads & Bridges Minister, RB Subba, as chief guest.
Welcoming the gathering, Acharya Sonam Gyurme presented a brief history of the institute and on the contributions of Rigzin Dorje Rinpoche in establishing it.
Acharya Gyurme informed that the Rinpoche has been staying at the ‘bhavan’ maintained by the Tsuklakhang Trust where many other monks from various parts of the country and the world are provided free accommodation. In this regard, he expressed dismay over the fact that the Rinpoche, who is now 60 years old, has been asked to vacate the bhavan. Highlighting the Rinpoche’s selfless service over the years he conveyed that it was very unfortunate that Rigzin Dorje Rinpoche has been asked to leave the bhavan.
Meanwhile, the chief guest, Mr. Subba congratulated the institute’s students and staff on completion of 25 years of the establishment and highlighted that the milestone was a ‘red letter day’ for the institute.
“I have learnt today that the institute has not received any assistance from the State government so far. Since I have come today in a personal capacity, I cannot make any commitments on the government’s behalf but I will definitely bring this to its notice and extend all possible help,” he said.
Rigzin Dorje Rinpoche, in his address, thanked all for attending the silver jubilee celebration of the institute. He further expressed hope that the state government will participate and support all such events in the future.
Also present on the day were Lachung Rinpoche, Lachen Rinpoche [Dungse Tulku Wongda], former Minister Tseten Tashi, Director Ecclesiastical Affairs Department, Sonam Gyamtso, Khempo Chewang, monk representatives from Nepal and Bhutan along with the local gentry.
On the second day, i.e 19 October, Tsedup [long life prayers] for Rigzin Dorje Rinpoche was performed. The silver jubilee celebration concluded on 20 October.