His Majesty the King graced the inauguration of Rangtse Nye in Haa yesterday. The sacred place in Gakiling Gewog is more popularly known as Sangbay Nye, aptly describing its secret location among the hills.
The naturally formed opening in the middle of a ridge below Rangtse is believed to be the secret abode where Guru Rinpoche and Khando Yeshey Tshogyel meditated. Inside, along the ceaseless tunnel, they left behind signs of their spiritual attainment.
Some significant spectacles at the Nye includes a tortoise like stone signifying the subduing of Digpa Raza and mesh of rocks resembling a mandrel offering at its entrance. Inside, one comes across Guru’s Dorji,Guru’s footprint, Khando’s pudenda and the vase of life among others – all formed naturally. Also, there are many underpasses route inside the Nye, of which, one is believed to lead to a nye in Sikkim.
“It is believed that our human race will disappear and the world will come to an end. Everything will be burned,” said Yeshey Dorji of Dorithasa, Gakiling. “During that time, Rangtse Nye will give a new beginning to the human race and provide everything, from food to shelter. We have a hole inside which signifies such a beginning,” he added.
Revered spiritual figures such as Lam Manip, Geshey Kuenga Rinchen and Geshey Doti visited the Nye and recognized its sacredness. Yet, the place still remains lesser known among the people.
Now, with an access to road, more people are expected to visit the Nye.
Meanwhile, for locals, the inaugural by His Majesty called for an elaborate celebration. They celebrated their first Rangtse Nye Tshechu with various performances of mask and cultural dances.
Following the event, His Majesty the King left for Dorokha in Samtse, where hundreds of people received His Majesty at the community’s Shivalaya Mandhir. His Majesty also offered prayers at the temple.
