The main courtyard of one of the main halls of Tashilumpo monastery suddenly filled with people who rapidly formed (or were formed) into a long line. (MOST unusual in Tibet!)
A throng of people surrounding one individual descended a stairway. As
always a Chinese Cadre, wearing western clothing in these photos, was in
attendance.
The individual is the 17th Karmapa. One of the leaders of the Kagyu lineage. The current Karmapa is a 10 year old. His seat is Tsurphu, about 30 miles from Lhasa up the Tolung river valley.
The long line of people were in attendance for an audience and to receive a blessing from this revered reincarnation.
