Our Founder
Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche
World-renowned meditation master
The Founder of Modern Kadampa Buddhism is Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, a world-renowned meditation master who holds the very essence of Buddha’s teachings in his heart.
Venerable Geshe-la transmits this profound wisdom and compassion to the people of the modern world in very practical ways through the extremely accessible methods of modern Kadampa Buddhism, which he introduced.
A life of dedication
Since 1977, when he accepted an invitation to become Resident Teacher at Manjushri Centre in the UK, he has given thousands of teachings, composed twenty-three widely acclaimed books on Buddhism and meditation, established over 1,300 meditation centers, trained hundreds of qualified Teachers and developed practical study and meditation programs to suit the needs of the modern world.
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In short, he has dedicated his entire life to laying the foundation for modern Kadampa Buddhism to flourish throughout the world in this and future generations.
A quiet humble monk who changed our world
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During his remarkable life, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche touched the hearts of countless people throughout the world.
His wisdom, kindness and compassion are unequalled in these uncertain times.
As we will see in coming articles, Venerable Geshe-la's legacy is both extraordinary and world-changing.
From his vast body of unequalled teachings enshrined in his extraordinary books, the Temples, centers, study programs, Teachers, Sangha and above all the international community of people actively dedicated to world peace, he has sown so many seeds of peace and hope in this troubled world that are already bearing fruit and will continue to do so for many decades to come.
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Venerable Geshe-la frequently said to us "The time will come for you to do my job." And so now this time is upon us - to joyfully and sincerely work together to fulfill the compassionate wishes of this holy being in generation after generation.
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This will be our highest offering to Venerable Geshe-la and our deepest expression of gratitude.