In a rare development, a Tibetan Buddhist nun has entered a meditative state after passing away in India. The state of ‘Thukdam’ as called in Tibetan is a rare meditative state only very learned spiritual masters enter on their death. The report by the Department of Religion and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration explained the rare phenomenon.
Ven Tenzin Choedon more prominently known as Ani ( Nun ) Tenzin was a resident of Kollegal Tibetan settlement who had spent over 44 years in mediation retreat at Holy caves of Guru Padmasambhava Charitable and Meditation Centre at Rewlsar. Her body was found in the state of Thukdam with moral fragrance all around, according to the official report by the department.
In the practice of Buddhism, a realized practitioner continues to abide by the recognition of the nature of mind at the moment of death, and awakens into the Ground Luminosity when it manifests. Usually displayed by Buddhist spiritual masters, they may even remain in that state for a number of days.
Some practitioners and masters die sitting upright in that state for a number of days. Some practitioners and masters die sitting upright in meditation posture. Besides the posture, they have any other signs of being in a state of consciousness. They still retain a certain color and glow in their face, their nose does not sink inward, the skin remains soft and flexible, the body does not become stiff, the eyes are said to keep a soft and compassionate glow, and there is still a warmth at the heart. Great care is taken that the master’s body is not touched, and silence is maintained until he or she has arisen from this state of meditation.
Many Tibetan spiritual masters are known to have displayed this meditative state after passing away. During this period, devotees rush to have a final visit to the master and seek blessings.