A Buryat writer and educator who played a significant role in preserving and promoting Mongolian culture and language, particularly through children's literature.
Bidia Dandaron was a renowned Buddhist author and teacher in the Soviet Union, who not only played a crucial role in promoting Buddhism in Russia but also made significant contributions to academic Tibetology. His groundbreaking work on the Tibetan-Russian Dictionary (1959) and translations from Tibetan into Russian remain unparalleled to this day.
Bidia Dandaron was born on December 28, 1914, in Soorkhoi, Kizhinga, Buryatia, to a Buryat Buddhist tantric practitioner named Dorji Badmaev. Recognized as the tulku of Gyayag Rinpoche, a Buddhist master of the Gelug tradition from Kumbum Monastery, Dandaron's early life was marked by rigorous study of both secular and Buddhist subjects.
Despite the challenging times, Dandaron pursued higher education, studying at the Aircraft Device Construction Institute in Leningrad (1934-1937) and attending the Eastern Faculty of Leningrad State University as an auditor. His academic pursuits led him to study Tibetan language with the esteemed scholar Andrey Vostrikov.
Dandaron's teachings had a profound impact on his students, many of whom went on to become prominent Buddhist scholars and teachers in their own right. Notable students include Alexander Piatigorsky and Linnart Mäll. His work on integrating European philosophy, history, and science within a Buddhist framework remains a testament to his innovative approach.
The Tulku lineage of Vimalakirti begins with Gyayag Rinpoche, whose reincarnation was recognized in Dandaron. However, the Buryat lamas, under Tsydenov, did not submit Dandaron to the Tibetan search party, choosing instead to educate him locally. This decision led to the Tibetan search party selecting a local boy, Blobzang bstanpai rgyalmtshan (1916-1990), as the alternate tulku.
As religion was suppressed by the Soviets, Dandaron faced severe persecution, being brought to court three times and spending a significant part of his life in prison camps. Despite these challenges, he continued to teach and promote Buddhism, inspiring generations to come.
One of Dandaron's most memorable quotes is: "The essence of Buddhism is not in rituals, but in the transformation of the mind."
In 1921, Buryat religious and secular leader Lubsan-Sandan Tsydenov proclaimed Dandaron heir to his throne of Dharmaraja, recognizing his spiritual authority and leadership.
Bidia Dandaron's pioneering work has had a lasting impact on the development of Buddhism in Russia and beyond. His integration of European philosophy and science within a Buddhist framework has paved the way for a more inclusive and adaptive approach to Buddhist teachings.
Dandaron's remarkable life and work serve as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and innovation. As a Buddhist teacher, author, and academic, he has left an indelible mark on the history of Buddhism in the Soviet Union.
92 Years Old
A prominent Russian poet and playwright, known for his bold and provocative works that often critiqued Soviet politics and society, earning him both acclaim and controversy.
89 Years Old
A celebrated poet, short story writer, and translator, known for her lyrical and introspective works that explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition.
93 Years Old
A Russian physician, author, and academic who wrote influential novels that explored the complexities of Soviet life, blending literary styles and genres. His works often touched on themes of identity, morality, and social change.
