What is the New Kadampa Tradition?

The New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU) is a global Buddhist community founded in 1991 by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Its aim is to uphold and make available the authentic teachings of Kadampa Buddhism for the benefit of all.

Rooted in the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni as passed down from the great Buddhist masters Atisha and Je Tsongkhapa, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso has made the timeless wisdom of Buddha’s teachings accessible to people everywhere.

Through its international network of affiliated centers and community-based initiatives, the NKT shares the practical benefits of these teachings with people of all backgrounds and walks of life.

The New Kadampa Tradition is an independent Buddhist tradition with no political affiliations. Legally registered as a non-profit charitable organization in England under the name New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU).

The NKT main office is located at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Center in Ulverston, UK, which is the Mother Center of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union.

What is Modern Buddhism

Modern Buddhism in the New Kadampa Tradition refers to the presentation of Buddha’s ancient teachings in a way that is clear, practical, and directly applicable to modern daily life–regardless of a person’s background, culture, or belief system.

This approach was developed by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, the founder of the NKT, who dedicated his life to making the essence of Buddha’s wisdom accessible and relevant to people today. In his words:

“Modern Buddhism is a special presentation of Buddha’s teachings that retains their original meaning while making them easy to understand and practise in modern society.”
— from the book Modern Buddhism

The book Modern Buddhism is available as a free eBook and widely used in Kadampa centers around the world.

What does it mean to be a Buddhist?

 Being a Buddhist means finding refuge in the Three Jewels–Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—as the true and reliable protection from suffering. Going for refuge is the foundation of the Buddhist path and the essential step that marks the beginning of someone’s life as a Buddhist.

Going for refuge means developing heartfelt trust in:

• Buddha as our guide and perfect example
• Dharma (Buddha’s teachings and our own inner experience of them) as the actual protection from suffering
• Sangha (the spiritual community) as our companions and support on the path

In the NKT, we train in this inner refuge by learning to turn inward for solutions to our problems, relying on the wisdom and methods taught by Buddha to transform our mind. We gradually let go of external objects or conditions as our main source of happiness or protection, and instead turn to Dharma practice to find real peace and freedom.

For those who wish to formally become Buddhist, there is the opportunity to take the Refuge Vow—a beautiful and meaningful ceremony in which one makes a conscious decision to rely on the Three Jewels and commit to living in accordance with Buddhist principles. This vow marks the beginning of a new life, one based on spiritual practice, ethical conduct, and the intention to progress toward liberation and enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

What should I expect when I visit a New Kadampa Buddhist center?

When you visit a New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) Buddhist center, you can expect a peaceful, friendly, and accessible environment designed to support people from all walks of life in learning about and practicing meditation and modern Buddhism.

You’ll be warmly welcomed, whether or not you have any prior experience with Buddhism. You’ll find a diverse mix of people of all ages and backgrounds and you are likely to meet beginners, long-term practitioners, and everyone in between.

Classes are usually structured around simple guided meditations and practical teachings drawn from Buddha’s wisdom. They’re designed to be immediately helpful–giving insight into how to deal with everyday problems and experience more peace of mind. After class, there’s often a chance to ask questions, chat over tea, or browse the bookshop.

Centers typically include a shrine room with images of Buddhas and both chairs and cushions for seating. There’s a calm, respectful atmosphere, but no special clothing or rituals are required–just come as you are.

You might hear about prayer practices, retreats, or opportunities to volunteer, as well as national or international special events, all of which offer ways to deepen your understanding and connect with the community–but there’s never any pressure. People are encouraged to take things at their own pace and find what works for them.

When visiting a New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) Buddhist center, you can expect a welcoming and peaceful environment run by dedicated volunteers and geared towards study, meditation, and the practice of Buddhism.

NKT centers have bookshops that sell books by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, meditation audio resources, Buddhist art, and other materials related to Buddhist practice.

Are there any online classes in the New Kadampa Tradition?

Yes, there are online classes available for those interested in Kadampa Buddhism, offering teachings, inspiration, and support for study and meditation wherever you are.

Your local Kadampa Center should be your first port of call as they offer livestream classes as well as correspondence study programs to their members who are unable to attend in person.

There are also Kadampa teachings released each week as Living Clarity podcasts on all major podcast streaming platforms, such as Spotify, Apple podcast & Youtube.

International Festivals, National Festivals and Dharma Celebrations are also often made available to join via livestream or on catch up, making it easier than ever to connect with Kadampa teachings from anywhere in the world. These are offered in multiple languages.

These online courses and resources make the teachings of New Kadampa Buddhism accessible to a wide audience including those who are unable to travel or attend in person teachings due to their personal circumstances.

What is a typical New Kadampa meditation class like?

A typical New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) meditation class is welcoming and suitable for both beginners and those with some meditation experience. Most participants meditate sitting on chairs, with the option to sit cross-legged on the floor if preferred.

Sessions usually begin with preparatory practices, such as setting a positive intention. This often includes reciting the Liberating Prayer (link), especially in General Program classes, followed by a simple guided meditation to help let go of distractions and calm the mind.

Most classes include a short Dharma talk explaining the benefits of meditation and how to apply Buddha’s teachings practically in daily life. The session often ends with a second meditation focused on the class topic, giving time to contemplate it deeply, reach a conclusion and hold this for a period of time in silent meditation.

After the classes there is generally time for refreshments, as well as discussion with other participants or the teacher of the class.