Special “Ik Yöräl” prayer services to be held at the main khurul of Kalmykia.

Starting tomorrow — on March 5, 6 and 7 — the annual great prayer services dedicated to Buddha Shakyamuni's display of miraculous powers will be held at the Central Khurul. According to the head of the administration of the Central Khurul, Yonten-Gelung, the first 15 days after the celebration of Tsagan Sar are sacred for Buddhists. History tells that during the life of Buddha Shakyamuni he entered into a contest of magical powers with six teachers who preached a mistaken doctrine. On the 15th day of his contests, the Buddha triumphed. This day became one of the main Buddhist holidays. This tradition of holding the “Ik Yöräl” was established by Lama Tsongkhapa (Zunkva Gegen) in memory of the great 15 miracles of Buddha Shakyamuni. As the monks of the Central Khurul note, the power of the auspicious prayers on these days is very great. It is important for the faithful to take part in these prayer services. They will take place over the course of three days, in two sessions: from 9:00 to 11:30, and from 14:00 to 16:00. On the days of “Ik Yöräl” there will be no individual receptions.