Sanan Matvenov, About Gal Tyalgn

Abstract

Lama Sanan briefly explains the structure of a gal tyalgn ritual. He says that in Kalmykia gal tyalgn is a popular ritual and it is performed on various occasions, including weddings, in order to bring happiness, heal sick people, or after funerals. This ritual involves offerings to all Buddhas, protectors, local spirits and Bodhisattvas. The prayers that are read during this ritual consist of three parts: (1) the cleansing of the offerings to gods (serzhm nom), (2) the removal of obstacle, and (3) making the offerings to gods and calling happiness (kishg dudkh). The offerings consist of sweets, flowers, butter and dairy products. There are also texts about making offerings to nagas, local spirits, so that they do not harm people and bring happiness. In order to make this ritual more effective, as well as to accumulate merit, people should have this ritual conducted by a lama.