The third day of the Great Encampment Mahakala Puja followed the same program as the previous day based on the text called Incinerating the Hostile (Tib. sDang ba rnam sreg) originally composed by the 2nd Sharmapa Kachö Wangpo. The puja was conducted by His Eminence Goshir Gyaltsap Rinpoche and the esteemed rinpoches, tulkus and khenpos.
The gathering of thousands is assembled in the early hours and the puja starts before the break of dawn.
H.E. Goshir Gyaltsap Rinpoche presides over the whole day's puja.
The drums resounding in the dark of the early morning create a powerful atmosphere.
A mandala is presented to the throne of the Gyalwang Karmapa and offerings are given to the rinpoches and tulkus performing the puja.
The nuns actively take part in the puja.
Yangsi Bokar Rinpoche and Khenpo Donyo Rinpoche enjoy a happy moment during the break.
Diligent preparations are being made for the second part of the puja.
Goshir Gyaltsap Rinpoche presides over the afternoon session of the Mahakala puja.
The Vajra Master of the dance sits in front of the Hazhal torma.
The monks continue the puja in the late afternoon sun.