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The 10th Panchen Lama's visit to Hobogsair


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Authors

Bulag, Uradyn E. 
Fuerwa, Dorjraa 

Abstract

The year 1984 marked a momentous occasion for the Torghuts of Hobogsair as they welcomed the esteemed presence of the 10th Panchen Lama. Amidst a throng of eager onlookers, the Panchen Lama, accompanied by revered figures such as Shaliwan Gegen and Gumbum Gegen, graced the region with his spiritual wisdom and guidance. His visit left an indelible mark on the community both religious and territorial matters. During his visit, the Panchen Lama made a concerted effort to bolster Buddhism in Hobogsair, paying visits to all three of the region's monasteries. This gesture underscored the development of religious devotion and cultural preservation in following years. Moreover, the Panchen Lama addressed longstanding disputes over territorial boundaries, particularly along Hobogsair’s eastern border with the Altai region. Recognizing the tensions surrounding pastureland usage, he advocated for a pragmatic solution by suggesting the construction of a Oboo at Khökhudug. This marker served to delineate the border between the Torghut and Kazakh territories, urging both communities to respect its significance and avoid future conflicts. Additionally, he encouraged the Torghuts of Hobogsair to uphold their traditions by conducting an annual worship ritual to protect the land and foster harmony among its inhabitants. Since that pivotal visit, the Torghuts of Hobogsair have faithfully adhered to the guidance of the Panchen Lama, organizing the Oboo ritual each year to honour his legacy and safeguard their ancestral lands.

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Keywords

Panchen Lama, Torghuts, Hobogsair, Jasagiin Khüree Monastery, Buddhism

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Publisher

Kalmyk Cultural Heritage Documentation Project, University of Cambridge

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Sponsorship
Sponsored by Arcadia Fund, a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing and Peter Baldwin.