Monk

Photographer

Martin Koeppert

Category

People Photography - Religious

Company

mko-photography

Submission Group

Amateur

Year

2024

Country / Region

Germany

The series was taken during a project in Ladakh, India. In the Buddhist monastery of Thikse in Ladakh, an impressive spiritual practice unfolds, governing the rhythm of the day. Monks commence their day in profound silence, meditating within the monastery. Seated in concentrated postures, their minds directed towards the path of enlightenment, the crisp mountain air around them saturated with stillness.

Following morning meditation, the monks partake in simple communal meals, sharing humble vegetarian dishes and sipping butter tea with mindfulness, cleansing their minds of worldly thoughts.

After further hours of meditation, the sounds of traditional Buddhist instruments like drums and gongs come to life. Monks perform musical rituals that saturate the atmosphere with spiritual energy, elevating the senses.

Thikse Monastery is a place where time appears to stand still, and the quest for enlightenment is celebrated in every action and sound.

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