Gordon Simms

Chogyal's Vision Gordon Simms

Chogyal Zangpo is a Tibetan born in exile in Dharamsala, India. The family is closely associated with the Dalai Lama and operations of the exiled Tibetan government. As a lad, Chogyal accompanies his father and grandfather to an isolated monastery (at Kura), famous for its demonology and mystic bodhisattva (a pre-Buddha). His first religious confrontation begins when he describes his experience to a Christian missionary teacher who reacts sharply negatively, citing biblical scripture against such practices. Unhappily, this results in an early long-time skepticism of all religions, a serious problem considering his family's faith and traditions - and related politics. Transferred to New York, his father heads up a team negotiating with the Chinese for a new relationship with the Chinese government - successful after several years. This allows all exiles to return to China, and become locally elected participants in the Chinese government. It also allows them to regain their old properties subject to individual negotiation. The family returns to Tibet where they regain their old estates and leadership roles. Chogyal remains behind to continue his education through Harvard (graduates with honors). While in America, he also learns of a Luddite-type cult called "Old Ned" in the West, and "Hakka-yao" in China (their objective is "paradise on earth" through strict family and government controls). The cult is headed by a wealthy, very superstitious Chinese recluse (Shiu-kwai), living in England. This cult and its leader will play an important role in Chogyal's future. After Harvard, Chogyal is selected to enter Oxford following a brief interim return to Tibet. During this interim, he is absorbed into the family's leadership role. As such, he learns that he is expected to direct an exorcism of a "demon infested baby," a mandate that he successfully carries out (per ritual custom) but considers ludicrous. To Chogyal's chagrin, the exorcism receives worldwide publicity. It i