Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche, also known as Khyentse Norbu, was born in Bhutan in 1961. He is a Tibetan Lama, filmmaker, and author recognized as the third incarnation in the Khyentse lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. His lineage traces back to Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo, a founder of the non-sectarian Rimé movement. Khyentse Norbu has studied with teachers from all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism and considers Dilgo Khyentse his primary guru.

He is a prolific writer, with published books such as 'What Makes You Not a Buddhist' and 'Not for Happiness: A Guide to the So-Called Preliminary Practices.' He has also directed several films, including 'The Cup' and 'Travellers and Magicians,' which have received international acclaim. Khyentse Norbu is also involved in various charitable and educational initiatives, including the establishment of Siddhartha's Intent and the White Lotus Charitable Trust, aimed at preserving Buddhist teachings and supporting underprivileged children.

Born in Bhutan in 1961, Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche is recognized as the third incarnation of the founder of the Khyentse lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, a lineage dating back to Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo (1820–1892). This lineage is closely associated with the Rimé movement, a non-sectarian approach to Tibetan Buddhism that seeks to integrate the teachings and practices of all major schools. Khyentse Norbu himself has received teachings from masters across the Sakya, Gelug, Nyingma, and Kagyu traditions, reflecting the inclusive spirit of his heritage. He considers Dilgo Khyentse his main guru and is a custodian of the teachings of Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo. His education included studies at the Palace Monastery of the King of Sikkim, Sakya College, and SOAS, University of London.

As an author, Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse has penned several widely read books that explore Buddhist philosophy and practice. Notable works include 'What Makes You Not a Buddhist,' 'Not for Happiness: A Guide to the So-Called Preliminary Practices,' and 'The Guru Drinks Bourbon?'. He has also authored non-fiction works on Tibetan Buddhism intended for free distribution. Beyond his writing, Khyentse Norbu is an accomplished filmmaker. He consulted on Bernardo Bertolucci's 'Little Buddha' and subsequently wrote and directed award-winning films such as 'The Cup' (1999), 'Travellers and Magicians' (2003) – the first feature film made in Bhutan – 'Vara: A Blessing' (2013), and 'Hema Hema: Sing Me a Song While I Wait' (2017). His films often delve into Buddhist themes and cultural narratives.

Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche is deeply committed to the preservation and dissemination of Buddhist teachings. He founded Siddhartha's Intent in 1989, an international association of non-profit centers dedicated to maintaining Buddhist teachings and fostering broader understanding. He also established the Deer Park Institute in 2006, aiming to revive the spirit of ancient Indian wisdom traditions. Recognizing the need for secular support, he founded the White Lotus Charitable Trust in 1993 to aid neglected children through education, which later evolved into the international organization Lotus Outreach. The Khyentse Foundation, established in 2001, further supports individuals and institutions engaged in the study and practice of Buddhist wisdom and compassion.