Losar, meaning “New Year,” is an important festival in Tibetan Buddhism, marking a time of renewal, reflection, and community. Losar itself falls this year on Wednesday, 18 February, the day after the New Moon, and marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse—a year traditionally associated with energy, movement, and transformation.

Please join Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSD Johannesburg Temple for a special Q&A session on Sunday 22 February, offering a valuable opportunity to receive direct guidance from Rinpoche.

If you would like to submit a question in advance, please send it to +27 73 352 3620 by 19 February, or you are welcome to ask your question in person on the day. The Q&A session will also be accessible via Zoom (details below).

Programme
10:00 – 11:00 Q&A with Lama Yeshe Rinpoche
11:00         Tea (please bring treats to share)

Alongside the Losar celebrations, we are pleased to present an Art Exhibition by Toni Pörtner.

Toni has worked at Samye Ling since 2001 as a joiner and carpenter and is a long-time student of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche. He is currently the caretaker at the men’s retreat on the Isle of Arran and is gradually moving into retirement. Over the past two years, Toni has been creating and singing original Dharma songs. This exhibition features illustrations inspired by and created for these self-composed songs. Toni will be happy to discuss his work!

The practice of generosity (dāna) is a cherished part of Buddhist life, especially during the New Year period. Many people choose this time to make simple offerings as an expression of gratitude and support for the teachings. Offerings of flowers, incense, or food are welcome, with food offerings to be shared at tea after the session.

Zoom Details:

If you are in Johannesburg, please do join us in person. Otherwise you can join on Zoom. Please note: There are only 100 spots on Zoom, so please log in by 9:45.