Travelling light:  The ‘Africa Lama’ on the challenges of bringing Buddhism to southern Africa

Shortly before his death, the great British historian Arnold Toynbee was asked what he considered the most important development of the 20th century. After two world wars, the invention of television and the first moon landing, few could have predicted his answer. It was, he said, “the coming of Buddhism to the West”.

One of the most significant figures to pioneer Buddhism’s trek across the time zones is Dr Akong Tulku Rinpoche, who will host a programme of events on his Joy of Kindness tour through southern Africa this month.

“Without the Chinese invasion of Tibet, I would not be here,” he says. “Perhaps then some good has also come from the Chinese occupation because I and many other lamas came to be in a position to help many people in the West.”

His attitude is decidedly charitable, especially considering the story of his escape from Tibet. In 1959, the 20-year-old Akong Tulku had just completed his spiritual education when he found himself among the leaders of a 300-strong party fleeing the Communist Chinese invasion.  Read Article

By Albert Buhr