Khamtrul Rinpoche: Exploring the Drukpa Lineage – Special Video Episode (#224)

Jan 7, 2026

In a captivating dialogue, Khamtrul Rinpoche, the 9th Gyalwa DhoKhampa and a revered Tibetan Buddhist teacher, delves into the Drukpa lineage's rich heritage and teachings. He unpacks the essence of Mahamudra and Dzogchen, discussing how they relate to the nature of mind. The conversation explores practical meditation techniques, the role of guru devotion, and the transformative power of mindfulness. Rinpoche also introduces dream yoga as a vital practice, urging listeners to leverage suffering as a catalyst for insight and growth.

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ANECDOTE

Origin Story Of The Drukpa Name

Khamtrul Rinpoche recounts how the Drukpa name arose when two dragons flew as a sign to build a monastery at Nam.
This origin story explains the lineage's name and its symbolic connection to dragons.

INSIGHT

Six Yogas Support Mahamudra

Mahamudra focuses on the nature of mind while the Six Yogas support realization through subtle yogic methods.
The Six Yogas are a swifter, more secret skillful means to realize Mahamudra.

INSIGHT

Mind Is Empty Yet Luminous

Khamtrul Rinpoche explains mind as empty in essence yet inherently clear and luminous.
He links emptiness to dharmakaya and clarity to sambhogakaya while thoughts are nirmanakaya manifestations.

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January 7, 2025

In this special video episode of The Wisdom Podcast, host Daniel Aitken is joined by Khamtrul Rinpoche, The 9th Gyalwa DhoKhampa, Shedrup Nyima. Join Rinpoche and Daniel as they discuss the history, teachings, and practices of the Drukpa lineage. Learn about the teachings and meditations associated with the lineage, including mahamundra and the Six Yogas of Naropa. The conversation also explores the nature of mind, the difference between ordinary mindfulness and deeper meditative practices, and the role of dream yoga.

In this episode, Rinpoche and Daniel also discuss:

Practical advice for daily practice;
the importance of guru devotion;
compassion and mindfulness in daily life; and
so much more!

Meet Our Guest

The 9th Gyalwa DhoKhampa, Shedrup Nyima

The 9th Khamtrul Rinpoche was born on December 6, 1980, in Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh. Soon after the death of the 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, the Khampagar Monastery requested a prediction and the details of his rebirth. In 1981, a letter was received clearly stating the father’s and mother’s names, the place, and date of birth as Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh.

In September 1982, Rinpoche and his family were invited to Khampagar Monastery in Tashi Jong. Rinpoche reached Tashi Jong on the 7th of November 1982, the day of Buddha’s descent from Tushita Heaven. The previous Khamtrul Rinpoche had also arrived at Khampagar Monastery (in Tibet) on the same auspicious day when Buddha descended from Tushita Heaven. H. H. Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche enthroned the 9th Khamtrul Rinpoche on February 18, 1983, and gave him the name DhoKhampa Shedrup Nyima. The ceremony was attended by representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, heads of the Tibetan Buddhist School, and the royal families of Bhutan and Sikkim.

As a young child, Rinpoche was raised by the great Togdens of Khampagar Monastery. He later received lessons from Khenpo Lhawang, Dorzong Rinpoche, and the Togedens, in addition to many sets of teachings and initiations from H.H. Dilgo Khyentse. Currently, Rinpoche spends much of his time doing retreat at Tashi Jong and studies and practices the Dharma and lineage teachings. At all the grand ritual ceremonies in Khampagar Monastery, he presides as the Vajra Acharya.

Bio courtesy: https://khamgardrukcollege.org/the-9th-khamtrul-rinpoche-gyalwo-do-khampa-shedrub-nyima/

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