Cotton-Clad Procession

Yogis wet their white cotton cloths in order to demonstrate their ability in tummo.

After the cloth is wet, they wrap themselves up.

Crowned with red hats, they prepare for the procession.

The procession begins as they encircle Tergar Monastery.

With arms on their hips, they turn slowly from side to side as they generate warmth through meditation.

As they exit Tergar's gate, they pass devotees on either side.

The long column of yogis proceeds from Tergar to the Monlam Pavilion.

Devotees offer katas to the meditators out of respect.

A devotee offers the mandala mudra.

Having entered the Pavilion, they file up to the front to take their seats.

The cotton-clad yogis sit on the Karmapa's left while the ordained monks sit on his right.

The yogis, deep in meditation, sit opposite the monks.

The 17th Gyalwang Karmapa offers a mandala.

The white cotton cloths have dried.

The yogis line up to receive the Karmapa's specially blessed gift.

They receive their gifts with devotion.

A yogi holds the Karmapa's gift.

The Rumtek three-year retreat master bows to receive his gift.

The Karmapa offers prayers.