Emerging from the ancient Bön tradition and considered vital in contemporary Tibetan and Himalayan rituals, the Drala (dgra lha)—or “War Gods”—find their most extensive and profound exposition within the Bön system. These are primordial guardians of nature, possessing great might and power, particularly in the capacity to pacify external adversaries. Their origin story begins at the very dawn of the universe, linked to the emergence of dualistic phenomena such as light and darkness, virtue and non-virtue, good and evil, day and night, and victory and defeat.

The principal deity is a great black Garuda known as Chungnak Ralchen. He possesses the power to dominate the world and hold sway over all other creatures and protective spirits. His retinue consists of millions upon millions of different types of natural Drala. By establishing a connection with these deities, one can harmonize the energies of our personal protection and power of body, mind, reputation, activities, and prosperity, as well as our overall achievements. In other words, they diminish negativity and darkness while increasing virtue and light.

The “Mountain Ritual of the Drala” is intended for those who have lost their connection to these powerful guardians and energies, resulting in frailty and poverty, victimization by enemies, or failure in business and other endeavors. It serves to restore vitality and help in accomplishing goals. This ceremony involves making extensive offerings—most importantly the nine types of armor and weapons—to support the Drala guardians. Through this, one restores all the positive energies associated with this primordial origin and establishes a fresh connection. It enables individuals and groups to achieve victory in conflicts and struggles, fully reviving their positive potential. Even for practitioners and yogis (yogin), it can extend one’s lifespan and restore the power of body and mind, thereby allowing wisdom and capacity to flourish.

Practitioners residing in various locations around the world are able to participate online, while at the Holy place Boudhanatha Stūpa in Nepal, many other Geshes will join Geshe Dangsong Namgyal to conduct a two-day ritual assembly.