Sunday, February 07, 2010

Gyallu : The New Tibetan National anthem

Gyallu is the national anthem of Tibet. The anthem focuses on the radiance of Buddha. The words were written by Trijang Rinpoche around 1950 but it is unclear exactly when Tibet's anthem was first used, either while the country was still under the control of the Dalai Lama's administration or first adopted by the government in exile after the invasion by China.
The earliest report of an anthem (presumably this one) is from the period of 1949 to 1950 (when the country was already facing the threat of a Chinese invasion), introduced under reforms set in place to strengthen patriotic feelings of the Tibetan people. Another report states that the anthem was presented to the 14th Dalai Lama in 1960, after he went into exile.
Regardless of the adoption date, the melody is said to be based on a very old piece of Tibetan sacred music, and the lyrics by the Dalai Lama's tutor, Trijang Rinpoche. It has been used by Tibetans in exile ever since the introduction of the anthem but is strictly forbidden to be played within Tibetan Autonomous Region.


Si Zhi Phen De Dö Gu Jungwae Ter
Thubten Samphel Norbue Onang Bar.
Tendroe Nordzin Gyache Kyongwae Gön,
Trinley Kyi Rol Tsö Gye,
Dorje Khamsu Ten Pey,
Chogkün Jham Tse Kyong,
Namkö Gawa Gyaden,
ü-Phang Gung la Regh
Phutsong Dezhii Nga-Thang Gye
Bhod Jong Chul Kha,
Sum Gyi Khyön La
Dekyi Dzogden Sarpe Khyap.
Chösi Kyi Pel Yon Dhar
Thubten Chog Chur Gyepe
Dzamling Yangpae Kyegu
Zhidae Pel La Jör.
Bhöd Jong Tendrö Getzen Nyi-ö-Kyi
Trashi O-Nang Bumdutrowae Zi,
Nag Chog Munpae Yul Ley,
Gyal Gyur Chig.

English

Let the radiant light shine of Buddha's wish-fulfilling gem teachings,
the treasure chest of all hopes for happiness and benefit
in both secular life and liberation.
O Protectors who hold the jewel of the teachings and all beings,
nourishing them greatly,
may the sum of your karmas grow full.
Firmly enduring in a diamond-hard state, guard all directions with
Compassion and love.
Above our heads may divinely appointed rule abide
endowed with a hundred benefits and let the power increase
of fourfold auspiciousness,
May a new golden age of happiness and bliss spread
throughout the three provinces of Tibet
and the glory expand of religious-secular rule.
By the spread of Buddha's teachings in the ten directions,
may everyone throughout the world
enjoy the glories of happiness and peace.
In the battle against negative forces
may the auspicious sunshine of the teachings and beings of
Tibet and the brilliance of a myriad radiant prosperity
be ever triumphant.

Source:  Wikipedia and You Tube

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