Dr. Trogawa Rinpoche re-established the Chagpori tradition by founding the Chagpori Tibetan Medical Institute in Darjeeling in India in 1992. Under his guidence it was extended to include a pharmacy for herbal medicines and several clinics.
Dr. Trogawa Rinpoche was one of the few doctors outside Tibet, who has been educated according to the old Chagpori lineage. He saw it as his goal in life to maintain this unique tradition of Tibetan medicine and regularly came to the West to teach and to treat patients.
Currrently (2005), thirty young doctors have graduated from the institute in Darjeeling while there are twenty students in training, mainly Buddhist nuns, who are able to receive an education only because the students are financially supported by Western sponsors.
With deep sadness we have to inform you that Ven. Dr. Trogawa Rinpoche passed away on the 11th May, 2005. Rinpoche went quietly into a deep meditation in which he remained untill the 15th. The cremation, aswell as the 49th day ceremony took place in Gangtok.
With his passing, not only has one of the last great teachers from the Chagpori lineage left us, but also a great Buddhist teacher who was an example of living compassion. Many dear memories and a gratefulness to have known him so closely will remain with us.
May his wisdom mind continue in us.
