December 18, 2009 – Mahabodhi Stupa, Bodhgaya
His Holiness was requested to attend the 8th Jonang Monlam and to lead the prayer ceremonies. At the Jonang Monlam entrance gate, His Holiness was welcomed by Khen Rinpoche Choe-kyi Nangpa Chog of the Jonang Tradition. His Holiness was escorted to the main shrine room inside the Mahabodhi Stupa by monks carrying incense and playing gyalin. His Holiness prostrated and recited prayers before making his way to the enclosure in front of the Bodhi Tree, to join the morning session of the Jonang Monlam.
Many people were gathered at the Jonang Monlam, mostly monks and nuns, some Tibetan laypeople, and a scattered crowd of foreign tourists and Westerners. After a mandala offering was made to His Holiness, he completed his visit by circumambulating the outer circuit, followed by a large crowd of devotees.
