Message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama

LETTER OF SUPPORT

The Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in Central Tibet besides being the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.

After the Tibetan national uprising that took place in 1959, a handful of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery monks along with many thousands of Tibetans escaped into India. The Monastery was then subsequently re-established in Bylakuppe in Karnataka State, India. With the induction of new recruits over the years, the Monastery today has about 400 monks. Most of our major monasteries are thriving, but Tashi Lhunpo is still facing difficulties.

Through the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery UK Trust's educational and cultural exchanges, including chanting and cham performances, the monks share our unique Tibetan culture and their special monastic tradition with people in Europe and other parts of the world. The Trust also supports the Monastery's work in India. Any assistance extended to the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery will be much appreciated.

As Patron of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery UK Trust and because of my unique relationship with the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery I support the work of the Trust and wish it success in its attempt to help the Monastery here in India.

H H THE DALAI LAMA

11th February 2004