Today the Ketchenery Khurul “Tsanid Choora Khurl” Was Opened

Today is a significant day for the entire Kalmyk people, as one more Buddhist temple has been erected in our republic. In the village of Ketchenery the ceremonial opening of the “Tsanid Choora Khurl” took place. This long-awaited event became a true celebration; residents in national costumes joyfully greeted one another, congratulating each other on the opening of the khurul. They had waited 5 years for this. That is exactly how long it took to erect one more spiritual abode in the Kalmyk steppe. However, the beginning was laid back in the distant 1990s, when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama consecrated the site of the future temple.

As the Shajin Lama of Kalmykia, Geshe Tenzin Choydak, noted, everyone who took part to the best of their ability in the construction of the temple performed a virtuous deed. “Thanks to you, all the residents of the republic, and most importantly our children, have a place where they can come, pray, and receive from the monks an answer to any question. I will never tire of repeating that each of us should strive to live by the precepts of the Great Buddha, to be kind and compassionate toward all living beings,” the Shajin Lama addressed those gathered.

The leadership of the republic, representatives of the organizing committee, and the temple’s abbot Sanan Gelung — each, in their speeches, noted the significance of today’s event. It is truly a historic day. It is very symbolic that the opening of the temple coincided with the 30th lunar day (Matsg odr), which means that every action, every word, and even thought was multiplied many times over.

In the prayer service for the well-being of all residents of the Ketchenery district and of the entire republic, both the monks of the Central Khurul and a delegation of monks from Drepung Gomang Monastery took part. In the coming days, a sand mandala of Green Tara will be constructed at the “Tsanid Choora Khurl”.