Dharamshala: Secretary Dhondul Dorjee of the Department of Religion and Culture, CTA, attended the valedictory ceremony marking the conclusion of the abbacy of the 128th Abbot of Gyuto Monastery, Gangkar Choktrul Rinpoche.

The event was also attended by Kalon (Minister) Norzin Dolma of the Department of Information and International Relations, Health Secretary Jampa Phuntsok, Secretary of the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi Dhondup Gyalpo, and Executive Director of Men-Tsee-Khang, Thupten Tsering. Notable attendees included Kelsang Gyaltsen, former Special Envoy for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and former Representative at the Offices of Tibet in Brussels and Geneva, and Lobsang Nyandak, former multi-portfolio Kalon and current Director of the Norbulingka Institute.

Following the completion of his abbacy, with gracious acceptance from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Gangkar Choktrul Rinpoche hosted a valedictory banquet for Gyuto monks, distinguished guests, devotees, and fellow homelanders. During the ceremony, well-wishers draped Rinpoche with ceremonial white scarves and extended their best wishes for his future spiritual endeavours.