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Chatral Rinpoche, Sangye Dorje (Tib: bya bral sangs rgyas rdo rje). A renowned Dzogchen in his mid-90's, Chatral Rinpoche is reclusive yogi known for his great realization and strict discipline. Rinpoche is one of the few living disciples of the great master Khenpo Ngagchung, Ngawang Palzang and widely regarded as one of the most highly realized Dzogchen yogis. In addition to his relationship with Khenpo Ngagchung, Chatral Rinpoche also studied with some of last centuries most renowned masters, including Dudjom Rinpoche, Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro, and the famed dakini, Sera Khandro. Rinpoche is one of the primary lineage holders of the Longchen Nyingthig, and in particular the lineage that descends through Jigme Lingpa's heart son Jigme Gyalwe Nyugu and then on to Patrul Rinpoche.

Chatral Rinpoche has shunned institutional and political involvement his whole life, choosing instead to live the life of a wandering yogi. To this day, despite his great age, he continue to move about continually, rarely remaining in one place for more than a few months. A lay yogi, he is also greatly concerned with maintaining strict discipline in the context of the Dzogchen view. He is especially well known for his advocacy of vegetarianism and his yearly practice of ransoming the lives of thousands of animals in India. In addition to his emphasis on the union of view and conduct, rinpoche also stresses the practice of retreat. He has established numerous retreat centers throughout the Himalayas, including in Pharping, Yolmo and Darjeeling.

Rinpoche currently divides his time between Salbhari, India, and Kathmandu, Nepal. He has two daughters, Tara Devi and Saraswati, with his wife Kamala.

External Links

a wonderful translated biography of Chatral Rinpoche's life story (rnam thar)

Dudjomba -- biography, teachings and lineage transmission of Chatral Rinpoche

Related Publications

Chatral Rinpoche. Compassionate Action: the Teachings of Chatral Rinpoche. Kathmandu: Sechen Publications, 2005.

A Long Life Prayer for Chatral Rinpoche

Through the power and blessings of the undeceiving ocean of the three roots,

May the lotus feet of Sangye Dorje, lord of the dance,

Be firm and everlasting!

May his enlightened activities to benefit the teachings and beings Flourish!

bslu med rtsa gsum rgya mtsho'i mthu byin gyis

gar gyi dbang phyug sangs rgyas rdo rje yi

zhabs pad mi g.yo yun du brtan bzhugs nas

bstan 'gro'i don chen mdzad 'phrin mthar rgyas shog