Dakini Conversations interview with Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo
It is difficult to summarize Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo’s activities in a few words, as she embodies the qualities of Noble Tara or Vajrayogini in human form.
Jetsunma is one of the first western fully ordained Buddhist nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Through her actions and example, she has empowered and recognized the immense potential of female practitioners and nuns.
This is evident not only through her twelve-year retreat in an isolated cave in the snow, but also through her establishment and leadership of the successful Dongyu Gyatsal Ling nunnery in Himachal Pradesh, India.
Furthermore, Jetsunma’s teachings are accessible, relevant, lively, passionate, and honest, reflecting her love for the Buddha Dharma.
She is a fervent advocate against ethical misconduct and gender inequality in Buddhist cultural traditions, and she practices what she preaches by following a vegetarian diet and being an animal lover.
Despite turning eighty years old this year, Jetsunma continues to engage in Dharma activities, giving teachings, attending Buddhist conferences, going on pilgrimages, and graciously agreeing to interviews.
This is the conversation between Adele Tomlin and Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo:
