Tibetan Buddhist Master Makes Rare Appearance on Maui

By Katie McMillan

Tibetan Buddhist Master, Yangsi Kyabje Kalu Rinpoche will be hosting several events on Maui, from August 16-18, at the Maui Dharma Center. He is recognized as the rebirth of His Eminence the Venerable Kalu Rinpoche (1904-1989), who founded the Maui Dharma Center in 1974.

Kalu Rinpoche (File Image)

As head of the Shangpa Kagyu Lineage, Yangsi (rebirth) Kalu Rinpoche is dedicated to sharing the ancient wisdom teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. His modern approach and youthful enthusiasm for practice is well suited for presenting the teachings to those living a contemporary life, yet seeking a spiritual path.

Rinpoche is also a poet, songwriter, and performer who is in touch with the new generation of the 21st century. Meeting and connecting with the youth is something that he is particularly fond of. When he last visited Maui in 1995, he was a precocious young Lama of just five years old. Even then, he awed large audiences with his amazing presence.

Rinpoche has spent most of his formative years studying in Darjeeling, India. He completed the traditional three-year retreat in September, 2008. Just 18 months after his birth in 1990, Yangsi Kalu Rinpoche was recognized as the rebirth of His Eminence the Venerable Kalu Rinpoche (Maui Dharma Center Founder). His Eminence Kalu Rinpoche is credited with being one of the first Tibetan masters to teach in the West. During his lifetime he started numerous dharma and retreat centers around the world, and authored numerous books.

The Maui Dharma Center is home of The Great Paia Lha Bab Peace Stupa, which was consecrated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in 2007. The Maui Dharma Center has played a leading role in bringing significant community events to Maui including the Dalai Lama’s visit in April 2007, and the Heart Shrine Relic Tour in 2008.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16

Aloha Welcome Reception for Yangsi Kalu Rinpoche

7:00 p.m-8:30 p.m.

Maui Dharma Center, 81 Baldwin Ave., Paia

Admission is Free / Donations Gratefully Accepted

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

“Free Your Heart, Free Your Mind”

7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. / Doors Open at 6:00pm

Iao Theater, 68 North Market St., Wailuku

Admission is Free / Donations Gratefully Accepted

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

Blessing of the Aina

4 p.m.

Maui Dharma Center, 81 Baldwin Ave., Paia

Admission is Free / Donations Gratefully Accepted

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

“Heart Advice for Practicing in the 21st Century”

Followed by a Chenrezig Empowerment

7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Maui Dharma Center, 81 Baldwin Ave., Paia

$25 Suggested Donation

For more information on the Maui Dharma Center’s upcoming events please visit http://www.mauidharma.org/ or call (808) 579-8076.

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