Sounds Of Peace
Choying has earned wide recognition through her mellifluous voice and touching lyrics
By KABI ADHIKARI
Just as the country was passing through difficult and violent period, there came a soothing voice. When the song "Phul Ko Ankha Ma Phulai Sansara" was first aired through radio, it caught the attention of conflict-torn countrymen in a manner no song had done before.
People were even more surprised when they found that the singer of that song that talked about tolerance and peace – virtues that were missing from the society – was none other than a Buddhist monk. That song helped Ani Choying Dolma, 36, a lady monk, reach new heights.
In fact, Ani is a title given to lady monks who stay in monasteries. Ani Choying Dolma has been staying in "Gumba" (monastery), since the age of 13. Being brought up in the mystical and serene surroundings of monastery, she is now totally involved in "Gumba".
To become involved in such community, everybody has to follow certain rules and regulations. Thus, Ani Choying Dolma, too, is following the conventions. To stay away from violence, not to tell lie, not to think bad of others are some of the basic precepts of Buddha religion. Having followed same concept and feeling, Ani respects her "Guru" from the core of her heart. Her Guru attained Nirvana in 1996.
From her very early age, she used to murmur songs but in 1998 she got publicity in this field. The success she has earned as a female singer was beyond her imagination. All of her songs are to the God and carry messages of peace, harmony and tolerance.
The song "Phul Ko Ankha Ma Phulai Sansara" also carries the message of Buddha. It earned her tremendous name and fame. The lilting lyrics of the song are so touching that one cannot remain indifferent.
Her songs also have mysticism attached with them. The flow of singing comes spontaneously from her. That is why she has established herself as a singer of good repute.
Her talent in music got a fertile ground to be nurtured. She was groomed under her 'Guru'. This inspiration from her teacher led her to participate in singing performances in many countries. Apart from singing mantras and religious hymns in monastery, she has not taken any formal class for learning singing. She claims herself as an honest singer. "Without hesitation one must express one's feelings with honesty that helps to get success in his/her life," said Ani who prefers to sing songs for spiritual peace that gives self satisfaction.
Because of her marvelous songs, she has bagged a number of awards including Hits F.M, Image, Chhinnalata, and Women of Peace awards. Her latest album 'Mantra' (Inner Peace) has just come to the market. The term mantra has its own value. Man means heart and tra means protection of mind .Like in other songs, she has similar theme in this album, too.
As a prominent singer, she has traveled to various countries like the United States, Spain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, England, Scotland, Belgium, Denmark, Slovenia, Austria, Hong Kong, Japan etc to perform. Her performances were well-liked by audience in these countries.
She is also a social worker. In 1998, she floated the "Bhikshuni Sewa Sangh," which is a school for Ani students. There are now 50 students studying there and engaged in spiritual and intellectual development. Although the Sangh follows the same curriculum as other general public schools, it has added courses that help students explore spiritualism. Mostly the students from the age of 9 to 25 from remote area are studying there.
