17.05.2013, Malaysia

Visit at Kuching Bodhi Path Society and welcome gala dinner

Kuching, Gala Dinner, Visit

On the morning of May 17th, 2013, His Holiness Karmapa paid a visit to Kuching Bodhipath Society.

Upon His arrival he was welcomed by Lama Palden, resident lama at the centre, the members of Kuching Bodhipath Society, as well as Shangpa Rinpoche, Nendo Rinpoche and the Rumtek monks.

As a special welcome gift to His Holiness a traditional Sarawak Lion Dance was performed, followed by a mandala offering.

In his welcoming speech the chairman Joseph Chua thanked the Karmapa for his visit and talked about the history of Kuching Bodhipath Society, which was founded in 2009 and inaugurated in 2012 by the 14th Kunzig Shamar Rinpoche.

His Holiness Karmapa reminded the gathered devotees of the importance of continuous practice and asked them to do their best to develop inner peace, for example through the practice of Chenresig.

Gyalwa Karmapa then blessed birds, turtles and fish, which had been brought by the sangha for a Life Release. The birds were released on the spot, and a bunch of balloons carrying a banner bearing the motto of the event “Many Paths, One Journey in the Land of Hornbills – Wishing for World Peace, Unity and Harmony” was sent skywards by His Holiness.

Then a Rabne (consecration) ceremony for the centre was performed, and His Holiness Karmapa went through the entire house, blessing the premises with mantras and consecrated rice, after which everyone in attendance had the opportunity to come before His Holiness, offer Him a kata and receive His blessing.

2013-05-17, Malaysia: Gyalwa Karmapa visits Kuching Bodhi Path Society

Visit at Bodhi Path Kuching Society. Gaylwa Karmapa blesses animals before the release ceremony.

In the afternoon His Holiness visited a palliative care unit at Sarawak General Hospital, as well as a cancer unit for adults and children, and spent some time with the bedridden patients.

In the evening His Holiness attended the welcome gala dinner that was organised in His honour at the Pullman Hotel in Kuching. His Holiness and the 300 guests enjoyed a wonderful evening with a variety of musical performances and dances, with the performers dressed in the colourful garb of the different ethnic groups of Sarawak – offering a glimpse into the richness of this beautiful and unique place in the world.

Report: Rabjam Rikki Caty

Gyalwa Karmapa visits Kuching Bodhi Path Society