In 1959, he was forced into exile and, during the two decades that followed, served the Tibetan community in India and Nepal as lama and physician. In 1979, at the invitation of some of his students, Rinpoche came to the West and began establishing centers. Chagdud Gonpa Foundation now has more than a dozen centers throughout North America, as well as a constantly growing number of local practice groups.

In addition to his scholarship, realization, and boundless compassion, the evocative power of Chagdud Rinpoche's singing voice has made him renowned among both Tibetans and Westerners. The selections included on this cd are based primarily on the prayers and mantras received by Chagdud Rinpoche from his own teachers. According to the Buddhist tradition, prayers and mantras are expressions of enlightened speech. Many of the melodies come from visionary experiences of great masters, and it is believed that such melodies have a powerful capacity to transmit blessings.

Audio cd, approximately 55 minutes.