Bylakuppe: Ambassador of France to India Thierry Mathou, accompanied by his wife Cécile Mathou, visited Tibetan Buddhist institutions at Bylakuppe on Wednesday.

He was accompanied by Marc Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru; Hemangini Rakshit, Attachée de Presse/Chargée de Mission and Jigmey Tsultrim, Chief Representative of Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

The delegation began its visit at Sera Jey Monastic University, where it toured the debate courtyard, observed Sutra recitation by young monks, visited the main temple and the Hayagriva shrine, lit butter lamps and interacted with the Monastery’s Abbot, who briefed the visitors on monastic education and the institution’s activities.

The delegation later visited Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), where its members were welcomed by the Monastery’s Administrative Board.

They toured the Golden Temple and learnt about its history, its role in preserving Tibetan Buddhist teachings, contributions to education and cultural heritage.

At the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, the delegation was received by the Abbot, Zeekgyab Tulku, and Chief Administrator Venerable Ngawang Lobsang. Sera Jey Monastic University hosted a luncheon for the delegation at Sera Jey Science Centre Guest House.

The visit, centred on Dharma and cultural exchange, highlighted France’s continued engagement with the Tibetan Buddhist community in India and highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.