Who could have imagined that these humble walls once sheltered a Dalai Lama in exile? Dedanpovran Temple, nestled within the Gandan Monastery complex, has a fascinating, if somewhat hidden, history. The temple itself is a relatively recent addition to Gandan, constructed in the early 1900s from earth and brick. Dedanpovran Temple wasn’t always a place of worship. It was originally built as a two-story library for the Fifth Incarnation of the Mongolian living Buddha, Chultem-Jigmid-Dambijantsan, complete with ceramic roofs and gilded decorations. However, Dedanpovran Temple’s claim to fame lies in a unique historical footnote. In 1904, the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubdan Gyatso, sought refuge within its walls, fleeing the British invasion of Tibet. He remained at Dedanpovran Temple for two years, a period of quiet contemplation and strategic planning amidst the turmoil of his homeland. During his exile at Dedanpovran Temple, the Dalai Lama received teachings from several notable figures, including the Buryat scholar Agvan Dorzhiev. He also met with prominent Westerners such as F.I. Scherbatsky and the Russian explorer P.K. Kozlov, demonstrating his continued engagement with the world beyond the temple walls. His time at Dedanpovran Temple became a pivotal moment in his life, shaping his future actions and policies. Today, Dedanpovran Temple stands as a testament to this significant historical event, a quiet reminder of a turbulent period in Tibetan and Mongolian history. While the Dalai Lama’s presence is the most striking story associated with Dedanpovran Temple, its role within the larger Gandan Monastery complex also deserves recognition. Gandan Monastery, with its rich history and vibrant religious life, offers a captivating glimpse into Mongolian Buddhism.
Central Stadium
What is the sound of thousands of hooves pounding across the earth? It is the sound of Naadam, and the