Myanmar earthquake: Karmapa’s message

March 31, 2025

In the wake of the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and neighbouring regions, Thaye Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, shares the following message of condolence.

A transcript of the message follows:

Dear Dharma friends,

It is with heartfelt sorrow that I am following the tragic developments ensuing from the disastrous earthquake that struck in Myanmar and the neighbouring countries – especially Thailand – last Friday.

As the search for survivors continues and rescue operations are ongoing, over 1,700 people have been confirmed dead already, with thousands more injured and countless others still missing.

The earthquake has destroyed buildings and infrastructure such as roads and bridges in large parts of Myanmar, and countless individuals have lost their livelihoods and are left with nothing. The full scale and long-term consequences of the disaster are as yet incalculable.

Apart from extending material help to them, what we as Dharma practitioners can do is support the victims of the disaster by dedicating our practice, prayers and merit to them.

My wishes and prayers are there for the deceased, the injured and the bereaved alike, and I would request all of my students to join me in making wishes and praying for them.

In particular, it would be beneficial to recite the six-syllable mantra of the Buddha of compassion, Avalokiteshvara, as much as possible, and I would encourage all my fellow practitioners to do that.