Residents of Kumchhi-Phangyuel Chiwog in Wangdue Phodrang are excited as they welcome a new Lhakhang. The previous Lhakhang, which has been a part of their community for decades, was on the verge of collapse. However, thanks to the initiative of the Machhen Zimpon of Punakha Dzong, Lam Namgay Wangchuk, and financial support from the government, the construction of the new Samten Choeling Goenpa began about five years ago. The inauguration was held recently, bringing renewed hope to the community.
The old Lhakhang, resembling a one-storied traditional house, had served as the Lhakhang for the residents to perform their rituals for decades.
Despite plans for reconstruction, budget constraints had hindered progress on the project. This situation caused concerns and fears among the residents.
However, the completion of the new Samten Choeling Goenpa has provided relief to the people in the chiwog.
On the 4th of June, coinciding with Lord Buddha’s Parinirvana, the two-storied Lhakhang was inaugurated. His Holiness the Je Khenpo also appointed a new Lam and ten monks for the Lhakhang on the same day.
“The old temple resembled a cow shed and it was difficult for even a person to enter. We lacked a religious head to conduct rituals. Although we have a tradition of conducting an annual prayer ceremony for our local deity, it was extremely challenging due to the lack of a proper place. Now, with the construction of the temple by the Machoen Zimpon, we anticipate that everything will go well,” said Pema, a resident of the chiwog.
“I am 77 years old now and I never thought that I would get to see the new Lhakhang. Previously, we had to take turns visiting the temple due to the risk of the structure collapsing. It was in a pathetic condition. Despite our efforts, we could not renovate it. Rainwater would seep inside, and there was neither a proper place for people to sit nor a suitable location to keep the sacred relics,” said Lang Gyep, another resident.
“From now on, all the religious activities will be conducted by the monks in the Lhakhang. This will allow us to preserve and revive our age-old culture and offer our prayers for peace and prosperity in the society,” said Kinley Dendup, Phangyuel Mangmi.
The new Lhakhang, situated in the same spot as the old one, will benefit more than 300 people in the chiwog, including those from other districts.
According to the residents, the Lhakhang is believed to have been founded by Sacha Lam around the 14th century.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
Edited by Sonam Pem
