Men-Tsee-Khang marked its 108th founding anniversary since its establishment by His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama in Lhasa, Tibet, and its 63rd founding anniversary since its reestablishment by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, India, on March 23, 2024. The institute organized a grand program at its newly renovated college auditorium on April 6th, with acting Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra, the Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Education, CTA, presiding as the Chief Guest. Special guests included Dr. Rashmi Agnihotri, Deputy Director of Ayush Kangra zone; Lobsang Jinpa, Secretary of the Office of H. H. the Dalai Lama; and Dawa Tsultrim, Health Secretary, CTA. Additionally, Personal Physicians of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamsala Tibetan Settlement Officer Kunchok Migmar, and representatives from Dharamsala-based Tibetan NGOs and institutes attended, adding to the occasion’s significance.
The ceremony began with the lighting of butter lamps to the portrait of H.H. the Dalai Lama by Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra for auspiciousness, followed by Yuthok prayer recitation. Thupten Tsering, the Director of Men-Tsee-Khang, welcomed esteemed guests, lecturers, students, and staff, expressing gratitude for their presence in celebrating the institute’s transformative journey. Presenting the annual report, he emphasized the importance of preserving the rich lineage of traditional Tibetan Medicine-Sowa-Rigpa and Tibetan Astrology-Kartsi, urging dedication to repay the immeasurable hard work of H. H. the 14th Dalai Lama. He also extended heartfelt thanks to Men-Tsee-Khang’s supporters.
In her keynote address, Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra lauded Men-Tsee-Khang’s role in preserving the Tibetan medicinal tradition and providing healthcare services to Tibetans, Indians, and foreigners over six decades. She credited the foresight of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and institute pioneers for this achievement, urging staff to heed His Holiness’ advice in their daily work, especially doctors in maintaining professionalism and etiquette with patients.
Guest of honor, Dr. Rashmi Agnihotri, highlighted the distinct yet converging goals of AYUSH and Men-Tsee-Khang in preserving traditional medicines and holistic health practices. She emphasized the importance of natural remedies and spiritual practices for well-being.
The event recognized Menpa Bumrampa (Ph.D. in Tibetan Medicine), Tseepa Bumrampa (Ph. D. in Tibetan Astrology), and Nye-Wei Menpa Bumrampa (M. Phil. In Tibetan Medicine) degree holders, conferred certificates by Dr. Rashmi Agnihotri. It coincided with the convocation ceremony of Men-Tsee-Khang Sowa-Rigpa College’s 21st batch medical students and 11th batch Tibetan Astro-science, honoring outgoing students and top performers of the 24th medical batch.
Dr. Yeshi Khando received recognition for her four decades of service, while 20 and 30 years serving MTK staff were commended. The event also featured the launch of the Documentation & Publication Department’s ‘Fundamentals Tibetan Medicine’ book and Research & Development Department’s ‘Basic Microbiology’ by the guest of honor, Lobsang Jinpa la, and traditional dance performances by Men-Tsee-Khang staff.
The General Secretary/Registrar of Men-Tsee-Khang, Dhondup Palden la concluded the event with gratitude.
