The Khalkha Jetsun Dampa Initiative is committed to preserving the memory of the 9th Jetsun Dampa and the rare lineages he held. Part of this is commemorating his parinirvana anniversary every year. This is the 13th anniversary and coincides this year with Losar.
Being a highly realized being, Khalkha Rinpoche could control his death and actually asked His Holiness the Dalai Lama when he should leave his body. His Holiness said it would be more auspicious to wait until after Losar. Khalkha Rinpoche followed this advice, and passed away weeks later on March 1, 2012, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. He remained in thukdam, a state of meditation after one is clinically dead with no signs of decay, for many days. His Holiness had sent Professor Samdhong Rinpoche as his representative to give his final respects. As soon as Samdhong Rinpoche laid the khata at Khalkha Rinpoche's body, his holy body immediately started showing signs of death meaning his consciousness had left. I have always found this story extremely beautiful, as it shows the deep connection between the 14th Dalai Lama and the 9th Jetsun Dampa. Many elderly Tibetans I have talked with also enjoy sharing this story with me when I mention Khalkha Rinpoche.
The KJD Initiative in conjunction with Dakini's Whisper will be hosting three amazing opportunities to receive teachings on these wonderful lineages:
Cho Empowerment and Transmissions from Choying Khandro
Teachings on the Ear-Whispered Masters by Professor Janice Willis
Teaching from Gen Rinpoche Geshe Yeshe Thabke
Khandro la is especially excited to have two guest teachers this year to help all those interested connect with the Geluk tradition. Geshe la also holds a very special place in her heart as her first teacher when she arrived in India and taught her Madhyamaka.
We hope many will be able to join for these rare and blessed teachings of the lineage.
-Cameron
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