July 13 is celebrated as Guru Rinpoche Day, honoring Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the revered Buddhist master credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan and the Himalayas. The day is one of deep spiritual reflection and devotion.
- Guru – From Sanskrit, meaning teacher or spiritual guide. In Bhutan, it refers to Guru Rinpoche, the enlightened master who spread Vajrayana Buddhism.
- Rinpoche – A Tibetan honorific meaning precious one. It is used for revered teachers and lamas, especially Guru Rinpoche, symbolizing wisdom and compassion.
- Padma – From Sanskrit, meaning lotus. It reflects purity and spiritual awakening, referring to Padmasambhava, whose name means born of the lotus.
