From Chilay Tsakto in Eastern Tibet, the second Karmapa, Karma Pakshi (1204-1283), was something of a child prodigy. By the age of six, he had taught himself to read and write.

At ten, he was displaying a photographic memory for texts. On his way to Central Tibet for further education, he encountered Pomdragpa Sonam Dorje, who had been told by a vision of Dusum Khyenpa, the first Karmapa, that this boy would become the next lineage-holder.

Karma Pakshi was persuaded to stay, and received the Kagyu transmission. In time, he became renowned for his powers, and had students throughout Tibet, China and Mongolia.