In a tale of unexpected spiritual destiny, an 8-year-old boy, A. Altannar, born into a wealthy Mongolian mining family, has been declared the 10th reincarnation of the Bogd, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism.
While the tradition of succession by reincarnation has prevailed in Tibetan Buddhism for centuries, China’s occupation of Tibet and subsequent attempt to control Tibetans has thrown up major questions. The recent recognition of the Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa has brought these back to the forefront.