30 November 2010 was the opening ceremony for the new Sama Boarding School. Jointly organised by Samagaun Development Foundation, Nubri Culture and Youth Development Society and Tergar International, this event had been a success. The ceremony was graced by the two Buddhist masters, Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche and Tsoknyi Rinpoche. The brothers were born in Sama Gaun and spent many memorable childhood years here before they moved to the city for their Buddhist studies. Hence, it had been more than 20 years since they returned to their hometown.
On this special and joyous occasion of their first visit home, a group of 40 students of Mingyur Rinpoche followed him on this journey. Foreigners from USA, United Kingdom, Mexico, Denmark, Germany, Thailand, Hong Kong and Taiwan made an arduous 8-days trek through the scenic route of the Himalayas to the village. From 19 November to 2 December 2010, they had spent some time out of their comfort zone to experience the freezing temperature of the winter and the very basic life in the village.
The celebration commenced when the villagers welcomed the Rinpoches' arrival. Following that, there were some Buddhist ceremonies performed for auspiciouness and short speeches given by the Rinpoches. The villagers played games such as tug-of-war, which brought the joyous spirit to its highest. Led by their teachers, the children also put up dance performances. These had been the highlights of the event as it was very entertaining to see these little ones dancing. Everyone, the villagers and the foreigners alike, had enjoyed themselves completely. As a souveneir, those who were present were given a specially printed calender.
The opening ceremony was merely a beginning of a longer road. It was our wish that the school will continue to serve its greater purpose, and that is, to offer a better quality education available to the new generation.
Top: The dance performance by the children and their teachers.
2nd from top: The foreigners enjoyed themselves.
Bottom: A group photo of the Rinpoches and the villagers.
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