Khenpo Drugda Passed Away


It is with a heavy heart that we wish to announce that one of our senior most Khenpos, Khenpo Drugda aged 44, passed away suddenly on 12th December; 2019. He was part of the entourage of Minling Khenchen Rinpoche who was on pilgrimage in Bhutan. On the 15th day of the Lunar Calendar while on his way to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), he suffered a cardiac arrest due to the high altitude and passed away.

We are very grateful and indebted to His Royal Highness King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk of Bhutan for sending immediate assistance in the form of a rescue team including medical personnel,the Mayor of Paro and high ranking police officials.

The last rites and cremation of late Khenpo Drugda took place at the Pema Woseling Monastery (Retreat Centre), a branch of Mindroling situated at Jimminah. Khenpo Pema presided over the ceremony accompanied by the monks of the monastery.

Khenpo Drugda was born in the year of the Dragon. He was exemplary in the sense that not only was he learned, but compassionate and always helped all those in need. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of the College.He will be greatly missed.

We once again thank His Royal Highness the King and the people of Bhutan for the kind assistance extended to us during this sad and difficult time.