About

The photograph “Maha Bekandze” by Nkosi Gomez presents a solemn and reverent moment, rendered in stark black and white. A line of Tibetan monks sits side by side, viewed from behind, their bodies slightly bowed in quiet devotion. Each wears layered robes and distinctive ceremonial headpieces that rise in textured, crest-like forms, creating a rhythmic repetition across the frame.

They are gathered outdoors at night, seated along a low ledge, with silhouettes of palm trees faintly visible in the background. The lighting is direct and focused, illuminating the monks’ garments and headpieces while the surrounding environment falls into deep shadow. This contrast heightens the sense of stillness and concentration, isolating the act of prayer from the outside world.

At their feet lie small personal items—shoes, bags—subtle reminders of their humanity and the physical journey they carry alongside their spiritual one. Despite the uniformity of their posture and attire, each figure feels individual, unified in purpose yet shaped by personal histories.

Within the context of a pooja, or fire ceremony, the image becomes more than a document—it is a reflection of endurance and faith. These monks, connected to Drepung Gomang Monastery, carry with them a legacy shaped by displacement. Having fled Tibet across the Himalayas, they now practice and preserve their traditions in exile, sharing them across communities worldwide.

The title, “Maha Bekandze,” evokes a sacred chant associated with healing and compassion. This resonance is echoed visually in the unity of the monks’ posture and the quiet intensity of the moment. Their presence embodies the values they carry—nonviolence, resilience, and interfaith harmony—while also serving as a living testament to a culture that persists despite decades of hardship.

The photograph holds a dual weight: it is both peaceful and political, meditative and urgent. It invites the viewer not only to witness a spiritual practice but also to recognize the deeper narrative of survival, cultural preservation, and the enduring hope for healing and peace.

TGDC hosts the wonderful visits of Drepung Gomang Sacred Arts Tours annually in the United States, traveling from community to community to share compassion and joy. The four-fold mission, as stated by Drepung Gomang Monastery, is to make a contribution to world healing and peace by sharing unique Tibetan Buddhist teachings, sacred religious performances, chanting, and Tibet’s unique identity and treasures of culture and authentic traditions. To offer prayer with all: “Recognizing well, and very deeply, that there have been great tragedies in every part of the world, we want to share our sympathy and prayers with you as human beings sharing this planet and sharing the future of this home of ours.” To generate a greater awareness of the endangered Tibetan civilization and human rights abuses by the Communist Chinese since 1959. As the situation in Tibet is becoming more desperate by the day, due to massive displacement of Tibetans by Chinese citizens sent there by the Communist government, and ever new rules and difficulties, especially at the monasteries, we need your help now. To raise support for the refugee monks’ community in South India for proper food, improvement in health and hygiene, and for providing better education facilities for the monk students.

To schedule a visit by the Drepung Gomang Sacred Arts Tour, please contact National Coordinator, Anne Walter, 502 619-1652.‍ ‍Drepunggomangcompassion@gmail.comKeystoPeace.org / Drepunggomangusa.org

Specifications

Print Size: Signed 8×10 in (20.32 x 25.4 cm)

Artwork Size: 6 ½ x 8 ½ (16.51 x 21.59 cm)

Black Precut Mat Size: 11×14 in (27.94 x 35.56)

Textured Matte Finish. An acid-free, 100% cotton rag base with a natural textured finish. This paper has an extremely high color gamut and black density. This paper is coated with our popular Enhanced Matte coating, giving exceptional color gamut and high D-Max. The velvet surface is a favorite of photographers and artists alike, offering a unique museum-quality feel.

Frame NOT Included.

This print ships within one week of the order date.