With Gratitude to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, to the Protectors of the Teaching and the Local Deities

So that all sentient beings may be freed from suffering and find happiness, so that there may always be peace and harmony in everything. It was for this that the monks of the Central Khurul and the faithful who took part in the traditional “Һazr täklһn” ritual offered up their prayers today. It was held on the grounds of the legendary “Lonely Poplar.” Despite the hot weather, many people gathered, each with sincere gratitude to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, to the Protectors of the Teaching and the Local Deities.

Every year this ancient rite is performed during the days of the sacred month of Urs Sar — a special time when spiritual practices and virtuous deeds are considered especially significant. Prayers are chanted, and saŋgi (incense, special herbs) are offered into a specially prepared fire.

As the Shajin Lama of Kalmykia, Geshe Tenzin Choydak, noted, in this sacred month in which Buddha Shakyamuni was born, attained Enlightenment, and passed into Mahaparinirvana, it is important for everyone simply to observe morality, to sincerely respect the sentient beings around them, and to renounce the 10 non-virtuous deeds. “If one observes this not only during the sacred month of Urs Sar but on all the other days as well, it will be a great blessing,” the Shajin Lama especially emphasized.

At the conclusion of the rite, the monks performed a ceremony of invoking well-being and good fortune, and the faithful departed with peace in their hearts and a resolve to embody moral principles in everyday life.