How about a sanctuary where ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions thrive in the heart of San Francisco? That place is Kagyu Droden Kunchab. This center stands as a beacon for those seeking to study and practice Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
Kagyu Droden Kunchab is more than just a temple. It is a vibrant community nurtured by the teachings of Lama Lodu Rinpoche. He is a meditation master of both the Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu lineages. Lama Lodu Rinpoche was appointed resident lama of Kagyu Droden Kunchab in 1976. His appointment came from His Holiness the Karmapa and His Eminence Kalu Rinpoche.
Born in Sikkim in 1942, Lama Lodu Rinpoche’s journey began in a Tibetan family steeped in spiritual practice. His grandfather, Lama Wongten, was a respected yogi. Rinpoche underwent rigorous training at monasteries under the guidance of esteemed teachers. These teachers included His Holiness the Karmapa and H. E. Kalu Rinpoche. He also studied under Drupon Tenzin Rinpoche and H. E. Thrangu Rinpoche. Lama Lodu completed a three-year retreat in Bhutan. Later, he led isolated retreats near Dharamsala.
Before arriving at Kagyu Droden Kunchab, Lama Lodu Rinpoche served as a puja master at Kalu Rinpoche’s monastery near Darjeeling for seven years. He also spent two years teaching at various European dharma centers. His Holiness the Gyalwa Karmapa once said that those involved with Kagyu Droden Kunchab are fortunate. He emphasized that they should embrace the opportunity to study and practice with Lama Lodu Rinpoche.
Lama Lodu Rinpoche’s teachings are known for their clarity and profoundness. They touch the hearts of all who listen. During initiations, he explains every detail. This enhances students’ understanding and makes it easier to experience the simplicity of mind. Lama Lodu provides translated sadhanas for each initiation. These texts make the practice more accessible. Lama is accommodating to those serious about meditation. He offers complete explanations of specific meditation practices. He explains the lineage and answers questions. Lama Lodu also demonstrates practices and provides taped sessions as study aids.
Kagyu Droden Kunchab offers group practices every Sunday morning. These practices include Chenrezig Sadhana. It is for the benefit of beings limitless as space. Also, they practice Medicine Buddha Sadhana. It is known as Lapiz Lazuli River. They also do Bodhisattva Chenrezig Sadhana. It is a Chenrezig Guru Yoga compiled by H E 1st Kalu Rinpoche.
Lama Lodu Rinpoche’s teachings benefit people of all ages and experience levels. His insight, simplicity, humor, and kindness illuminate the truth. He teaches the value of compassion. It is the key to liberation and supreme knowledge. Lama Lodu supervised the acquisition of land in Mendocino County. It is for retreats and the building of a stupa. He also rebuilt his teacher’s monastery and stupa in Tibet. Lama Lodu has overseen the translation of numerous sadhanas. He has written several books.
Kagyu Droden Kunchab stands as a testament to the enduring wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism. It offers a path to inner peace. It fosters compassion in a busy world.