Songs of the Sixth Dalai Lama

Songs of the Sixth Dalai Lama - K. Dhondup

The Sixth Dalai Lama Losang Rigdzin Tsangyang Gyatsho (1683-1706), whose name means "The Ocean of Melodious Songs" was a special Dalai Lama. Born in renowned Nyingma Family and brought up at a late age in the Gelugpa tradition, Tsangyang Gyatsho proved to be an uncomfortable blend of the tow traditions. But leaving aside the unfortunate politics that surrounded his desolate life, Tsangyang Gyatsho brought to holy Lhasa and Shol taverns some of the purest and most beautiful lyrics of all times. Extraordinary as a lover of wine and women, melodious as a Singer of love songs and above all, tragic as a national hero of the status of a Dalai Lama, reduced to become a heroic pawn at the hands of Qosot Lhazang Khan, Tsangyang Gyatso became a legend within his short lifetime. Worshiped and loved by the Tibetan people with stainless faith, Tsangyang Gyathsho's song became famous in every corner of Tibet reviving once again the fascination of simple folk poetry.