A new book brings stories of Drukpa Kunley (1455-1529), or the beloved ‘divine madman’ of Bhutan

The marketplace of Lhasa pulsated with the vibrant energy of merchants, pilgrims, nomads, monks and musicians. Situated against the majestic backdrop of the Himalaya, it was a cultural melting pot drawing people from across the Himalayan region.

Stalls and vendors lined the narrow streets, their colourful wares – exotic spices, textiles, jewellery and precious metals – spilling onto the cobblestone pathways. Tibetan nomads in traditional attire haggled over goods and livestock alongside merchants clad in silk robes.

Amid the hustle, monks and pilgrims from distant lands mingled with traders and travellers, sharing stories and spreading news and gossip.

Suddenly, Drukpa Kunley burst into the marketplace, panting, with beads of sweat dotting his brow. The usually calm and carefree figure appeared flustered and distressed. A merchant took notice and inquired, “Drukpa Nyonpa, what is it that is chasing you or you are chasing after? You are not your usual self today.”

Drukpa Kunley stopped abruptly and said, “I’ve lost my doechag (desire or attachment) and have failed to get it back.”

“How could you possibly lose your doechag so suddenly, and who might have taken it from you?” asked the merchant.

“Nyingmapas (followers of the Nyingma school) have stolen it from me and renamed it zungma (spiritual consort), claiming…

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