Exploring the Cultural, Historical, and Spiritual Works of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu
Chögyal Namkhai Norbu was not only a great Dzogchen master but also a renowned scholar whose work illuminated many dimensions of Tibetan culture. Through decades of teaching, writing, and presenting at international conferences and universities, he emphasized the richness, depth, and importance of Tibetan heritage with unmatched passion and clarity.
To honor and share this vast legacy, the Shang Shung Institute UK and the Ka-Ter Translation Project have united in vision to create a vibrant year-long program of cultural and educational events. This initiative is dedicated to spreading awareness of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s extraordinary contributions and ensuring that his life’s work continues to inspire generations to come.
A Year of Cultural Engagement
At the heart of the program is a series of book presentations dedicated to the works of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, most often published by Shang Shung Publications. These events will be hosted in Italy, the UK, Nepal, and Spain, with global participation made possible through live Zoom broadcasts and recordings available on the Shang Shung Institute UK YouTube channel.
Each presentation is designed to be interactive and engaging, with expert dialogues, Q&A sessions, group readings, and discussions depending on the nature of the text. Events will take place in bookshops, public venues, universities, and International Dzogchen Community centers.
The first event in the series was held on July 7, 2025, at the historic Castle of Arcidosso in Tuscany. The program included:
- A photographic presentation by Gino Vitiello, sharing rare images from his 1988 pilgrimage to Mount Kailash with Chögyal Namkhai Norbu.
- An interview with Professor Fabian Sanders, offering insights into Total Perfection, an important Dzogchen text recently published through the Ka-Ter Translation Project.
Upcoming Events and Highlights
The program continues with a variety of themes drawn from Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s wide-ranging works:
- November 8, 2025 – Oxford, UK
The next event will be in Oxford, UK, on November 8. Professor Charles Ramble will base his talk on Drung, Deu and Bön by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, a seminal work that explores ancient Tibetan narratives, symbolic languages, and spiritual traditions. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with these profound themes under the guidance of one of today’s leading Tibetologists.
- 2026
Two talks by Dr. Vincent Bellezza, an expert in ancient Tibetan history, exploring Rinpoche’s scholarly impact and referencing works such as The Necklace of Gzi, Drung, Deu and Bön, Ti se’i ’od, and Light of Kailash.
Each event will close with a convivial gathering, offering refreshments and space for connection, reflection, and community exchange.
Culminating Event – August 2026
The initiative will conclude at the International Association for Tibetan Studies (IATS) Conference in Kathmandu. A roundtable discussion will explore Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s profound scholarly contributions, bringing together many of the world’s leading Tibetologists. This will be a powerful moment to honor his legacy in the academic world and beyond.
Join and Support
We warmly invite everyone to join these events—whether in person or online—and to take part in this shared journey of cultural discovery and remembrance. Please note that the program receives no external funding. If you feel inspired to help make these events possible, you can offer your support by making a donation at www.shangshunguk.org.
Together, as a community, we can keep alive and share the immense cultural, historical, and spiritual wealth that Chögyal Namkhai Norbu dedicated his life to preserving.
