“Chötrul Dawa” ཆོ་འཕྲུལ་ཟླ་བ་ “Miraculous Month”
(This year, 2026, from 18 February and last for 15 days)
The term 'Chotrul Dawa' is translated as 'Miraculous Month' or 'Month of Miracles' and refers to
the first month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. This period is of significant importance and is
known as Losar, the Tibetan New Year. The event is scheduled to commence on 18 February
2026 and is expected to span a duration of 15 days.
This period is commemorated to mark the time when Buddha Shakyamuni performed a different
and profound miracle every day for 15 days. The objective of this undertaking was twofold:
firstly, to enhance the merit and devotion of prospective disciples, and secondly, to rectify the
erroneous views of six rival teachers (tirthika) and to instil faith in his adherents.
It is evident that the occurrence of the miracles took place in Shravasti, and that these reached
their zenith on the fifteenth day, with a variety of manifestations of divine power. The fifteenth
day of the first month, when the moon is full, is known as Chötrul Düchen ('Great Day of
Miraculous Manifestations') and is one of the four main Buddhist holidays. Consequently, Chötrul
Düchen is not solely a commemoration of past marvels; it continues to signify a perpetual
occasion.
It is a commonly held belief that every act of generosity, prayer, mantra recitation, offering and
kindness during these days carries immense spiritual power. However, it is important to note that
in order to accumulate merit, it is essential to act with pure intentions.
It is imperative to fortify one's dedication to the Three Jewels.
It is imperative to abstain from any actions that could be perceived as harmful.
It is imperative to dedicate all virtues to the enlightenment of all beings.
Two other significant spiritual events are celebrated in this same month: Ramadan and Lent.
These events, which originate from different traditions, symbolise the unity of humanity and the
deep connection between spiritual practices, despite their beautiful and fruitful diversity.
It is hoped that these extraordinary days will serve to inspire deeper faith, with an enthusiastic
desire to deepen one's practice in order to bring peace and liberation to the entire world.
***
Losar 2026, the Tibetan New Year of the Fire Horse,
falls on 18 February!
Tibetans will celebrate Losar from 18 to 21 February 2026. According to the Tibetan lunar calendar, the Year of the Fire Horse begins, symbolising courage, energy, and transformation.
The Fire Horse has a strong presence and encourages us to move forward courageously, overcome obstacles and explore new paths with passion.
Losar is a celebration of gratitude for the past year and hope for the future, offering a moment of reflection on the passage of time.Losar is a time of conscious renewal.
In Tibet, homes are cleaned, altars are adorned with ritual offerings, and new prayer flags are hung to invite blessings from all directions. Families gather to share festive foods such as guthuk and khapse, offer prayers and wish each other happiness.
Traditionally, Tibetans mark changes in age based on zodiac sign changes, meaning those born in the previous Horse year will reach the age of thirteen during the new year.
Happy Losar and Tashi Delek
བཀྲ་ཤིས་བདེ་ལེགས།
