At the end of our recent Darjeeling trip I was informed that, to my surprise, we would be going to Bhutan the next day.
Karmapa would be visiting with the royal family, and I was to document it. “She is my godmother” he told me, “it’s like visiting family” - I had never heard His Holiness speak in such a way, the tenderness in his voice was deeply moving and I knew this would be a very meaningful visit.
So we drove from Kalimpong to Phuntokling, which is just across the border. We went immediately to Her Highness' private residence, where Karmapa was greeted with the highest respect and honor, and he showed the same, bowing deeply and embracing her. One could clearly see how special it was for them both, and how happy they were to see one another. It was actually quite relaxed, everyone was so kind, so welcoming, this was certainly my first experience being around royalty and they treated us all like special guests. I was expecting extreme formality, and instead we were greeted warmly, generously, and with the utmost respect. Even the kitchen staff came out to greet us, everyone smiling and joyful. After a long private meeting, Karmapa then bestowed the Empowerment of Amitayus upon her Highness, and her special guests and family who were gathered. It was simply incredible. Karmapa just sat on the couch, a few monks prepared the tormas, everyone else on chairs or the floor - there was less than 15 people in the room total. I was completely blown away, so intimate and private. While I was there just to take photos - hiding in the corner trying to avoid bringing attention to myself - I knew that I had been part of something very special indeed.
After the empowerment we stepped out on the veranda, and I was asked to make some portraits of Karmapa with Her Highness and family in the garden. It was pretty surreal, that morning I had been in Kalimpong, and now I was taking photos with Karmapa and Bhutanese royalty in the afternoon, the setting sun behind us. Karmapa again was so tender with Her Highness, holding her hand, beaming as he smiled the entire time. I was deeply touched. Hands down one of the best moments of my life. And it was all over so quickly- everyone said their goodbyes, we hopped in the car, went to a hotel, and early the next morning we drove to Bagdogra to fly to Delhi for the March Course, with just a few hours to spare. We were in Bhutan less than 16 hours, just a brief moment in time, but etching a deep mark in my heart and memories.
