It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we have received the heartbreaking news of the passing of the immensely kind and supremely learned master of logic and scripture, Khenchen Sonam Gyatso Palzangpo. He entered the Dharma realm at the sacred site of Bodhgaya, India, on 31 December 2025 at 10:00 PM (IST).
At a time when the precious teachings of the Buddha both in their general form and, in particular, the profound teachings and practices of the glorious Sakya tradition were being carefully preserved and actively disseminated through his tireless compassion and unwavering dedication, this immeasurable loss has brought deep sorrow to all disciples and followers of the Sakya lineage here in Toronto. There is no doubt that the Buddhist tradition as a whole, and especially the noble lineage of the Great Sakyapas, has suffered an incalculable and irreparable loss. On behalf of the Sakya Choekhorling community in Toronto, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to all disciples, students, and family members of the late Khenchen. We, the entire community of Sakya Choekhor Ling, have offered extensive prayers and elaborate offerings at the sacred relics to fulfill the pure aspirations of the Khenpo Sonam Gyatso Palzangpo’s enlightened mind and to supplicate for swift return as a supreme master of scripture and realization.