Padmasambhava Day Festival
Riding a tiger, The Guru came, Smile fierce and friendly, Eyes aflame….
Sun 14 Sep | 10am–9.30pm | In person, with online elements
Led by Saddhaketu and Suryagupta
After the Buddha rediscovered Enlightened consciousness, the world still needed a guide who could reach into every corner of human experience and awaken people in ways they could truly hear. Enter Padmasambhava – the archetypal guru: his ‘skilful means’ and pithy teachings are famed across the Buddhist world, but what do they mean for us?
Come and discover Padmasambhava for yourself on this special festival day, where we celebrate this enigmatic and inspiring figure. Through meditation, ritual and storytelling, we will immerse ourselves in his myth and meaning. Along the way there will be chances to share food and connect with others. Whether you’re completely new to Buddhist practice or a long-standing friend of the Centre, you are warmly welcome to join in.
Event Schedule
10am | The Life and Liberation of Padmasambhava
Suryagupta will invoke Padmasambhava with readings from his spiritual biography, accompanied by meditation, chanting and drumming.
Doors will re-open from 11.30am–12pm.
12pm | Riding the Tiger
Saddhaketu will introduce the Guru through his favourite stories of Padmasambhava, and we will hear an original Padmasambhava invocation from special guest Mangala.
1pm | Shared Lunch - Please bring vegan food to share.
2.30pm | Mantra & Sound Bath Meditation
Come for an afternoon of music and sound, exploring the potential of sound-symbols as doorways to reality. With special guests Dayabhadra and Nina.
4pm | Tea and Cake - In the Mural Room
4.30pm | ‘Transforming Gods and Demons’ - Dharma Talk by Chair of the LBC, Suryagupta
Beloved Teacher and Chair of the LBC, Suryagupta, will be giving the keynote talk for the day, exploring Padmasambhava and the different energies needed for transformation in our personal and collective lives, drawing on her own experience and Sangharakshita’s seminal talk given at the LBC in 1979. In person and on Youtube.
5.45pm | Dinner in Mandala Café (by donation)
Cooked and served by a volunteer team.
7pm | Festival Day Puja with Mitra Ceremonies
When someone becomes a Mitra at the London Buddhist Centre, they are publicly declaring, in a ritual context, that they are a Buddhist. It's a very moving and significant event for both those becoming Mitras and also for those witnessing. Join in this uplifting ceremony led by LBC Chair Suryagupta.
Bring cards and gifts for new Mitras if you wish.
End by 9.30pm
