The Zilukha Project
Unleashing the “Cool” in Buddhism
WHY do it? — Context and Purpose of the Project
As times change, the expectations and aspirations of Bhutanese people are also changing. Meanwhile, the vibrancy and resilience of cultural values and local communities are being tested. Rising trends in suicide, addiction, disenchantment and other symptoms of social alienation—especially among the younger generation—are symptomatic of a certain disconnect and underlying tension within Bhutanese society. As a Vajrayana Buddhist Kingdom, and as a nation that promotes GNH, this is a paradoxical and worrying state of affairs.
The Zilukha Project intends to bridge this disconnect by making the Buddha Dharma relatable to people from all walks of life. It will do this by drawing inspiration from Drupthob Thangtong Gyalpo, who was an unorthodox renaissance figure—and based on whose legacy the Zilukha Nunnery was founded. Leveraging its location in the midst of a bustling capital city, the nunnery will provide an open space that sparks curiosity in the Buddha Dharma and contributes to building society by engaging all interested—especially children and youth—in fun and constructive programs.
HOW will it get done? — Proposed Programs and Activities
With the underlying motivation to ignite interest in the dharma, and to provide opportunity for hearing, contemplation and meditation, Zilukha nunnery will deliver regular programs as well as a calendar of special events/workshops that will cater to children, youth, the general populace, and the nuns.
Kids group
Children aged 5—12 will be introduced to Buddhist ideas, values and practices through classes and activities designed to be 90% FUN and 10% Dharma.
Youth group
People, especially youth with addiction problem will find solace, general counsel and other forms of support for their sustained recovery and reintegration into society. Outreach will be proactive but subtle, engaging the help of personalities that they feel comfortable with. Young people in general will find a safe, cool and fun place to hang out, where they can encounter and explore the dharma, while also developing useful skill sets.
General group
The general group will have the opportunity to engage in Buddhist study classes, structured retreats, traditional group practice sessions, as well as special workshops (eg. photography, writing, tsa tsa making) that not only teach a certain skill set but also turn the very art into a form of practice.
Nuns group
The nuns’ monastic education program and practices are sustained and further developed according to the great tradition of Drupthob Thangtong Gyalpo. The study and practice will also include a blend of useful ‘modern’ skills such as English language, information technology, and management, to name a few.
WHAT are the physical requirements for implementation?
The following are preliminary list of structures that will facilitate the implementation of above mentioned programs and activities:
- Dormitory to accommodate 50 to 60 nuns.
- Library for public use
- Rooms to conduct classes for different target groups
- Protect and develop area around Drupchu (located close by the nuns residents)
- Multipurpose hall to conduct performances and also be used for Drupchens. The hall would need following facilities:
- Lighting for theatre and plays
- Sound equipment
- Sound proof walls
- Projector screen for movies
- All structures to integrate rainwater harvest system, solar panels and access for special needs and elderly.
