Special Rituals Held at “The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni”
Only the measured rhythm of prayers, the smoke of incense, and the voices of monks offering praises to Shakyamuni. In the morning, the traditional Buddhist ritual “Kangso” was held at the Central Khurul. Today, according to the lunar calendar, it is matsg ödr, the 29th lunar day. It is precisely on this day that, in the main Buddhist temple of Kalmykia, prayers are always offered to the Protectors of the Teaching — Mahakala, Okn Tengri, Erlg Nomin Khan, and Bayn Namsr, for their patronage and support, for spiritual protection and help in all things. The monks turn to the protector deities with special prayers, glorifying their wisdom, strength, and compassion. During the prayer service, it is especially important to offer Serdzhm — a golden drink, a symbol of respect and gratitude to the Protectors of the Teaching. This is not a ritual “for good luck.” It is a moment when everyone can silently voice what they have long kept in their heart: a plea for peace, for strength, for the possibility to keep moving forward.
Also today, at “The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni,” another important ritual was held, “Hurvn khüv,” which literally translates as “three parts.” The temple was crowded. The faithful gathered on two levels, and for each of them today is a special day.
The monks of the Central Khurul had prepared in advance three kinds of offerings for the deities and enlightened beings, offering prayers to each and asking them to remove the obstacles that hinder both the spiritual path and worldly life: illnesses, misfortunes, conflicts, and inexplicable difficulties. It was precisely during this ritual that all those who came today were given pieces of dough with which each person “rolled” over themselves, symbolically gathering up all the negativity, obstacles, and illnesses.
This coming Wednesday, February 18, the entire Kalmyk people will widely celebrate the arrival of spring — a time when everything is renewed. We remind you that the festive day of the White Month will begin at the khurul with the taking of the one-day Mahayana vows. They will be bestowed by the venerable Geshe Lharampa Jagba Gyatso. The start is at 6:00 a.m. on February 18.
