Jigme Rinpoche is a Buddhist practitioner and teacher who came to France in 1975 at the request of his teacher, His Holiness the 16th Karmapa. He founded the first non-Catholic religious community in France, making a significant contribution to establishing the Dharma in Europe across all Buddhist traditions.
In addition to establishing Dhagpo Kagyu Ling (Dordogne, France), Jigme Rinpoche also dedicated himself to deeply engaging with Europe to better understand Western thought and life. His knowledge of Western society, acquired over decades, enables him to convey the Buddha’s teachings in a way that is particularly accessible to people here.In 2012, Thaye Dorje, the 17th Karmapa, appointed him as his General Secretary, entrusting him with the administrative responsibility for the Karma Kagyu lineage worldwide. Jigme Rinpoche travels regularly to oversee the development and management of centers and monasteries associated with Karmapa.
Since the passing of the 14th Shamar Rinpoche in 2014, Jigme Rinpoche has also taken care of the educational system initiated by Shamar Rinpoche, continuing his work for the benefit of all sentient beings. This includes an elementary school in Takdah near Darjeeling (India), a college in Kalimpong (West Bengal, India), and the Sharminub Institute for higher studies in Kathmandu (Nepal).
Additionally, Jigme Rinpoche is the author of several books published in various languages.
We are very pleased to welcome him to Graz in May 2025!https://jigmerinpoche.org
