top of page
tokpa-header-logo.png
Atmospheric documentary photograph emphasizing place, natural light, and surrounding detail — Malaysia — May 2016 — Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games — photograph by Tokpa Korlo
Observational photograph recording color, texture, and the character of the setting — Malaysia — May 2016 — Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games — photograph by Tokpa Korlo
Photographic study of form, texture, color, and the mood of the environment — Malaysia — May 2016 — Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games — photograph by Tokpa Korlo
Documentary image shaped by light, shadow, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place — Malaysia — May 2016 — Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games — photograph by Tokpa Korlo
Travel documentary photograph preserving the atmosphere and visual detail of the moment — Malaysia — May 2016 — Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games — photograph by Tokpa Korlo

Monlam is here once more - for the very first time in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur celebrates in majestic style with Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje himself leading the ceremonies.

Malaysia - Monlam Shadow Games

The grand hall is decked with flowers and colors abound - I am caught playing shadow games with the light, the beautiful contrast of shimmering vibrancy and haunting darkness to complement the rarity and beauty of the occasion.

Passing from the brightly lit and sun drenched exterior, we venture into the hall where the backdrop of huge crimson thankas frame the stage of Sangha, the drowning chant of golden robes in even rows cascading outwards into flowers, then slowly drifting into the soft and glowing space beyond. It is sheer pleasure to be here in this lush environment of deeply moving imagery, one couldn’t ask for more as a photographer. Everywhere you look there is something to be explored, to look deeper into the constantly evolving scene. The faces that look out at me have deep devotion, and almost mystical undertones. I look back with my eyes and heart open, not wanting to miss a single moment lest something pass me by unnoticed and forgotten. Darkness plays with light, color fades to shadow with startling beauty. A passing flutter of light rains down flower petals that quickly extinguish and fade into darkness and shadow…

Karma Kagyu Dharma Society Kuala Lumpur

bottom of page