The two-week-long Kathri began in Paro today, drawing thousands of devotees from across the country to receive empowerment from His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Among those attending is Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck. The Kathri has drawn devotees returning for a second empowerment, as well as those who travelled long distances and crossed mountains to attend.
Around 15,000 devotees arrived at the Kathri venue in Paro town from early morning. While some came from nearby areas, many travelled from across the country to receive the empowerment.
For devotees, the Kathri is an opportunity to receive teachings and instructions directly from His Holiness the Je Khenpo.
The teachings include reflections on impermanence and karma, as well as the importance of practising Dharma.
“I did not get the time to go to Thimphu when it was done there. Then I heard His Holiness the Je Khenpo was coming to Paro, so I decided to come here. I am very thankful to His Holiness for taking the time to oversee the Kathri for every one of us here,” said Yeshi, a devotee from Paro.
“The organisers have done a great job making the sitting areas comfortable, and we are very grateful for that. The weather is also nice today. Now, all we hope for is to receive the Kathri from His Holiness with devotion and as best as we can,” said Tandin, a devotee from Chhukha.
“I am a highlander. When we heard that His Holiness would be giving the Kathri here, we decided to cross the mountains to attend it. My prayer is that His Holiness lives a long and healthy life, and that everyone receives the Kathri well,” said Phub Lhamo, another devotee from Paro.
The Kathri will continue for the next two weeks, with devotees continuing to make their way to receive the empowerment.
Karma Samten Wangda
Edited by Sangay Chezom
