Arrival of Mipham Rinpoche’s Kudung at KIBI

December 31, 2025

On 29th December, 2025, the Kudung (Wylie: sku gdung, honorific term for the mortal remains of a realised master) of His Eminence the 3rd Jamgon Ju Mipham Namgyal Gyatso Tshojung Gyepe Dorje, an eminent spiritual master and father to Thaye Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, was received at Karmapa International Buddhist Institute (KIBI), New Delhi.

As the Kudung of the late spiritual master approached KIBI, a procession of monks in ceremonial garb holding incense and playing ritual instruments stood lining the street and guided the Kudung to KIBI in a solemn parade.

In the courtyard of KIBI, the Sangha, KIBI community and devotees offered a ceremonial welcome to the Kudung, led by Karmapa, his General Secretary His Eminence Jewon Jigme Rinpoche; and Khenchen Chodrak Tenphel.

The case containing the mortal remains was then installed on a mandala table set up in front of KIBI’s main shrine, and the gathered monastic and lay devotees had the opportunity to pay their respect and offer ceremonial scarves and flowers before the Kudung.

Karmapa and the Sangha then offered the Kudung Chopay Choga, a puja performed to mark the formal reception of the Kudung.

From the 30th of December onwards, and until the completion of the 49 days, the pujas of Jinasagara, Chakrasamvara, Vajrayogini, the Hundred Peaceful and Wrathful Deities, Minling Vajrasattva, Buddha Vairocana, and Buddha Amitabha are being accomplished at KIBI for one week each.

This is a truly unique time, and Karmapa encourages all of his students over the world to devote themselves to the practice of the Guru Yoga, seven-line prayer, and mantra of Guru Rinpoche, in order to connect themselves with the blessing of the late Mipham Rinpoche.

The cremation will take place at Karmapa International Buddhist Institute on the 10th of February, 2026.

Please see below a selection of photos from the reception of the Kudung at KIBI.