Here I would like to say a few words about the proud father of Khawalung Tashi  Choeling Monastery (where I stayed)—President Lama Jigme Dorje.

Lama Dorje as he is called by all the monks around the monastery is the soul of this place. Monastry’s day to day running and survival of its members (monks)  depends on him. I was lucky to be there at the time of his yearly stay in the monastery. Lama Jigme is taking care of this place monetarily and it’s administration. He is responsible for keeping the whole building safe for the monks and its keep up and repairs.

                          There are approximately 35-40 monks living here. A couple of appointed teachers who teach Tibetan and Nepali Languages to all these monks. There is a fulltime cook who is responsible for all healthy food preparations. There is also a regular flow of volunteers coming and going all around the year. Lama Jigme has to keep track of all these activities of the monastery and fund them.

                                        Lama Jigme is always on his feet travelling to Tibet, china, United States and of course Nepal (head quarter).  The sole purpose of all this travel is to raise funds to cover the expenses of this institution. His stay here comes during the time of the yearly big Pooja. He performs the Pooja in much disciplined way. He would attend all sessions of daily worship. At the end of each day all monks would get lots of fruits, candy and packets of chips and cookies. All children would be very happy. During his stay here he would attend the official and state business.

All monks in the monastery are very respectful towards him. I asked many of them about Lama and their response was “this is our Home, School and Temple and Lama is our Father and Mother”. Lama Jigme having travelled a lot realized the demand of the current time and needs. He once called us all and asked about his future plans of starting a regular school for the monks. Teaching them English, Math, Science and Social science. He wants to hire some part time or full time teachers. He said living in the monastery these children have no knowledge of the outside world. In case they are forced to leave due to some adverse circumstances, they should be able to 

survive.                                     Lama has lot more plans to improve the exposure of these monks to the world. He wants visitors to come and experience the monastery life, how these children live, thrive, learn and enjoy life.They are safe and secure under the umbrella held by this father.

to continue.......