Gift to Bhutan's Spiritual Legacy

In a journey intertwined with faith, artistry, and the blessings of Guru Rinpoche, Tibetan calligrapher Jamyang Dorjee brought a unique offering to the land of Bhutan. Inspired by a profound spiritual connection and driven by reverence, Dorjee’s gift—a meticulously crafted 37-meter-long manuscript of the Pemakathang (The Chronicle of Padma)—now stands as a symbol of devotion and cultural preservation.

Inspiration from the Land of Thunder Dragon

The story began in October 2023, following a 15-day workshop in Bhutan with VAST Bhutan, celebrating their 25th anniversary. Deeply moved, Dorjee revisited the Pemakathang, a revered 14th-century text revealed by Terton Orgyen Lingpa. Chronicling Guru Rinpoche’s life across 108 chapters, the 550-page work is a literary treasure of Bhutan.

However, instead of merely reading the verses, Dorjee felt an irresistible calling to rewrite them. His focus centered on the chapters concerning Lochen Vairochana, a historical figure who was a pivotal disciple of Guru Rinpoche. A profound spiritual bond (Samaya) inspired Dorjee to dedicate his creation to the reincarnation of His Eminence Vairochana Rinpoche in Bhutan—a leader he holds in the highest regard.

Crafting a Singular Masterpiece

Dorjee’s devotion materialized into a stunning calligraphic masterpiece. On handmade paper, in the elegant Kyug script, he meticulously inscribed the text across a breathtaking 37-meter scroll. Created in Thupten Chakrishar’s studio in New York, this piece became a one-of-a-kind work of art—both a spiritual offering and a cultural artifact.

A Sacred Journey to Bhutan

The manuscript began its ceremonial journey on the first day of the ninth lunar month during the 12th Lieudun Bumther Monlam Chenmo at Sangchen Pemayangtse Monastery, Denjong. It was received by revered Bhutanese lamas, including Kyabji Lachung Rinpoche and Serta Khyentse Tulku Rinpoche.

On Tsechu, November 11, 2024, the Pemakathang found its final home. It was ceremonially welcomed at the Lhakang of His Eminence Vairochana Rinpoche in Thimphu. The occasion was graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, Rinpoche’s mayun, HRH Ashi Sonam Dechen Wangchuk, Rinpoche himself, and his sister.

Later, Her Royal Highness Gyalyum invited Dorjee and his wife to Tashichho Dzong to view sacred Buddha relics brought from France by Kalu Rinpoche—a gesture that further deepened the spiritual significance of the visit.

A Dream Realized

For Jamyang Dorjee and his wife, the experience remains surreal—a harmonious blend of devotion, artistry, and the blessings of Guru Rinpoche. Offering this sacred text on the auspicious birthday of Bhutan’s Fourth Druk Gyalpo felt like destiny.

As Bhutan holds the honor of being the last Vajrayana Buddhist nation, Dorjee’s calligraphy becomes more than just a gift; it is a bridge connecting history, spirituality, and the timeless wisdom of Guru Rinpoche, ensuring that Bhutan’s cultural treasures continue to inspire generations to come.