Padmasambhava Day Festival
After the Buddha rediscovered Enlightened consciousness, the world still needed a teacher. Enter the realm of Padmasambhava, the archetypal guru: his ‘skillful means’ and pithy teachings are famed across the Buddhist world, but what do they mean for us?
Come and find out as we celebrate this enigmatic and inspiring figure on one of the year’s special festival days. Together we will explore the three robes of Guru Padmasambhava: the blue robe of mystery and magic, the yellow robe of training and discipline, and the red robe of love. Join in for meditation, reflection, shared meals, ritual and more. All welcome.
Led by Amalashri and Amalayodhin
Programme
10.00-13.00 -- Meditation morning, including musical offerings, mantra, and reflection (doors reopen from 11.30-11.40)
13.00-14.30 -- Lunch (please bring vegan food to share)
14.30-16.00 -- Cremation Ground Cafe, with input, meditation and discussion
16.00-16.30 -- Tea Break
16.30-17.30 -- Dharma talk from Vidyadaka - Dazzling and Immaculate: The Birth of the Guru
In-person and on YouTube
17.45-19.00 -- Dinner at the Mandala Cafe - by donation
19.00-21.30 -- Festival Day Puja and Mitra Ceremonies
Come in person
Doors open 15 minutes before the start. When you arrive, there'll be someone on reception to help you with any queries. There'll also be short breaks during most events.
Price
We appreciate every amount people feel able to give, no matter how big or small and thank you for your generosity in helping pass on the benefits of the Buddha’s teachings.
Single sex activities
At the LBC we value single-sex activities as a support for one’s deepening spiritual practice and we have men’s and women’s mitra convenors whose role it is to orientate new people into centre activities. If you identify as trans or non-binary then you're very welcome here - do get in touch and we can work out in discussion the best way of participating in the centre for you. We want to engage with everyone on an individual basis, in the spirit of friendship, and for everyone to feel at home at the London Buddhist Centre.
Venue
Opening times
Reception hours | 10am-5pm | Mon to Sat
Evening Classes | 7pm to 9.30pm | Mon to Fri
Sunday events | Check event page for timings
Getting here
Our address is: 51 Roman Rd, Bethnal Green, E20HU. The nearest tube stations within 5-10 minutes walk are Bethnal Green (Central Line and Overground), Cambridge Heath (Overground) and Stepney Green (District and Hammersmith & City lines). There are also lots of bus routes with stops 2-5 minutes from the centre.
How to book
Most of our events are by donation, you don't need to book just simply turn up on the day.
For courses and retreats, pre-booking online is recommended. There’s no need to print your e-ticket.
Plan your visit
An accessible toilet is located in the building.
Cloakroom
You can leave your coats and bags in the cloakroom provided. We ask that you take your footwear off if you plan on entering the shrine room. Please bring any valuable items with you into the class.
Bookshop
There is a bookshop at reception which includes books on Buddhism, Meditation and Mindfulness as well as ritual items, incense and cards. We accept both cash and card.
Access
If you require wheelchair or step free assistance please let reception know upon arrival or call beforehand. Depending on which shrine rooms will be used a team member will be able to assist with the use a ramps and lifts in the building.
Eating and drinking
During some events tea and biscuits are served during breaks while on day retreats and festival days there is vegan lunch shared between all those present.
If you would like to eat before or after an event at the centre the Mandala cafe is next door to the London Buddhist Centre! The Mandala team are friends and Buddhists, and this is a non-profit venture (we are a registered charity) so do come along and experience the unique and friendly atmosphere.
Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 3.30pm
Sunday CLOSED
