Lunar New Year Guest: Desi Tulku

Desi Tulku (DT), pictured below is a Rinpoche. In Buddhism, he is one rank or level below Dalai Lama. He has been living in India. Due to his rank, he would probably be captured if he returned to Tibet.


This year's Lunar New Year was special as we invited DT back to our home to have Reunion Dinner with us. He was all alone, so we thought why not invite him home and get a dose of cultural exchange. For this year, it happens that the Tibetan's New Year falls on the exact same date as our Chinese's Lunar New Year which starts on Feb 14..hello Valentines Day!

For our Yu Sheng, we used smoked salmon since I really shouldn't be taking raw food - so I was glad I wouldn't be missing out on the tossing of the fish salad. Since it was DT's first attempt, mother-in-law explained the meaning of this dish (Yu) - which signifies abundance and prosperity.

We also ordered noodles from Ah Yat Abalone Restaurant, and noodles represent longevity. Of course, the Treasure Pot - which had whole abalones, dried oysters, prawns, fresh scallops, roast chicken, differeny type of mushrooms and Chinese cabbage. It makes a complete, satisfying and nutritious meal. (Hmm, but maybe less satisfying as we also had Treasure Pot - although freshly prepared - for the next consecutive four meals).

We took a one hour break after dinner, and then DT began making Dorma (offerings) in the kitchen. This was made from oat, butter, honey and water. Smells really good in the kitchen! but these are offerings for the Buddha, not meant to be eaten.

When DT finished preparing the Dorma, we went into our prayer room and chanted till it was Lunar New Year...well it was about half an hour of praying. It was a pleasant way to start the first day of Lunar New Year.

After the prayer session, we back to the living room and wanted to have something sweet (I guess its symbolic once again) - we had red bean soup, Pu-er tea, chestnuts and some dried longans. Had a quick chit chat and snacks and then went off to bed. Well, its important to look fresh to welcome the first day of Lunar New Year ain't it!