Tibetans in Swiss Celebrates 40th Birthday of His Eminence the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje

The 40th birthday celebration of His Eminence the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, head of the Karma Kagyud tradition, held at Tibet Institute Rikon, Swiss, on 9 June 2024.

The birthday celebration commenced with offering of mandala and long-life prayers to His Eminence Gyalwa Karmapa by the devoted attendees.

Swiss-based venerable lamas of Kagyu tradition, including Rigzin Gyatso Rinpoche, Khen Rinpoche of Tibet Institute Rikon, Shiwalha Rinpoche, Namkha Rinpoche, and a Kagyu tradition representative from France and two other representing the Kagyupas in Nepal graced the ceremony. It was also attended by Representative Thinlay Chukki from the Tibet Bureau, Swiss.

The event also saw the participation of the heads of both NGOs and governmental groups, along with a gathering of monks and over hundreds of Tibetans, making it an inclusive celebration.

Given the recent passing away of His Eminence’s father, the official residence of His Eminence Gyalwa Karmapa has instructed affiliate monasteries not to celebrate the occasion elaborately and hence, the gathering marked the day with prayers.

The celebration was organised by Swiss Kagyu Lhagsam Association.