The Triten Norbutse Bon Monastery in Kathmandu is hosting a major event with religious leaders and representatives from 37 countries who follow the Yungdrung Bon religion. The gathering celebrates the opening of a new monastery, the 100th birthday of His Eminence Yongdzin Lopon Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche, and the 6th International Bon Conference.
More than 400 international delegates, along with thousands of local devotees, have gathered to participate in the grand celebration, which commenced on February 2 and will continue until February 12. The event has drawn a diverse audience, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual engagement.
The main conference is scheduled to take place from February 9 to 10, bringing together scholars and practitioners for insightful discussions. Concluding the event on February 12, the prestigious Geshe degrees will be conferred upon graduating students, marking a significant milestone in their academic and spiritual journey.
The Triten Norbutse Monastery was established by His Eminence Yongdzin Rinpoche in 1986 and is the largest Bon monastery in Nepal. It is dedicated to preserving and practicing the Bon religion and offers education up to the Geshe level.
The Bon religion, one of the oldest spiritual traditions, was founded over 18,000 years ago by Tonpa Shenrab Miwo. It focuses on wisdom and compassion to reduce suffering. Bon texts include teachings from 1,008 Buddhas, with Tonpa Shenrab being the eighth. These teachings are preserved in sacred texts that guide Bon practitioners worldwide.
Nepal has many Bon followers, especially in areas like Dolpa, Mustang, and Kathmandu. Dolpa is known as the “Land of Bon” with over 30 Bon monasteries. Bon culture is also practiced in more than 50 countries around the world.
