This recording of H.H. the 16th Karmapa performing the the Black Crown ceremony was shot in 16mm by John Karol, at the Cathedral of the Pines, New Hampshire. The year was probably 1981, as H.H. Karmapa’s appearance already shows the signs of the cancer which would eventually lead to his passing in November of that year. Despite his serious illness, through the Black Crown ceremony H.H. Karmapa – the “King of Yogis” – displays his power, dignity and nobility, and proclaims his enlightened state of mind.
This footage is from the “extras” disc which features with the documentary film “Recalling a Buddha” (2009) by Greg Eller. The DVD is available to purchase online at www.karmapaxvi.com.
Other posts which may be of interest :
Tags: Black Crown ceremony, New Hampshire, Recalling a Buddha
With greatest emotions, I could see again the Black Crown Ceremony performed by His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa KARMAPA in this video . For a long time I was looking for such a movie ! But I could not find any – because we were requested in the past not to make any pictures and not to shoot any movies during the sacred Black Crown Ceremony . I do have now a regret not to make myself a full movie of this great emotional event for the generations to come when I was with HH the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa : I was one of his close assistants during his travels in Europe in the years 1974 to 1980 and was very lucky to attend the Black Crown Ceremonies 27 times !
And during these years I was also with Lama OLE and Hannah traveling around Europe with HH the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa … It was such a great time in our life !