By Tsering Passang
Remembering Riga Wangyal
On Sunday, 28 December 2025, I joined more than one hundred members of the Tibetan Community in Britain, along with Riga Wangyal’s family, friends, and well-wishers, at the Rigpa Buddhist Meditation Centre in north London to attend a memorial service held in her loving memory. As a former colleague and long-time admirer of Riga’s work and character, it was deeply moving to witness the breadth of community she touched through decades of service, friendship, and quiet leadership.
The ceremony took place in the serene shrine hall of the Centre, before a magnificent statue of the Buddha, surrounded by sacred images, Buddhist scriptures, and a portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In keeping with Tibetan Buddhist tradition, 108 butter lamps (candles) and floral offerings were arranged before the shrine, symbolising the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of wisdom. At the centre stood a photograph of Riga, respectfully adorned with a white khata, with two candles placed on either side – gentle prayers for her peaceful transition and favourable rebirth.
Members of Riga’s family were present, including her sister Yangchen, her two daughters who had travelled from Switzerland, her husband Phuntsog Wangyal, and his niece Tsekyi. They were joined by many from both the Tibetan and wider British communities. The atmosphere throughout the service was one of deep reverence, gratitude, and quiet strength – qualities that many of us recognised as reflections of Riga herself.
Prayers Led by His Eminence Lelung Rinpoche
The memorial service was blessed by His Eminence Lelung Rinpoche, Spiritual Director of the Lelung Dharma Centre in London, who led an hour-long dedication of prayers. In his remarks, Rinpoche spoke of Riga’s distinguished family background, noting that she was born into the Chamdo Yabtsang lineage, traditionally known as “the lineage from which many reincarnated lamas were born.”
He also reflected on his long-standing connection with Riga, remarking on the meaningful coincidence that he was able to offer prayers for her during her illness, at her funeral rites, and again at this memorial service. The ceremony began with the chanting of the refuge prayers and the generation of bodhicitta, followed by the recitation of Samantabhadra’s Aspiration, Maitreya’s Aspiration, the Well-Being Aspiration, the six-syllable mantra of Avalokiteśvara, and prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama. The prayers concluded with dedication and aspiration prayers for Riga’s peace and liberation, and for the benefit of all sentient beings.
Memorial Speeches
Riga’s husband, Phuntsog Wangyal, offered a deeply moving tribute, read on his behalf by Sam Leigh, a former colleague. In it, he described Riga as “a woman of exceptional courage, compassion, and kindness,” someone who consistently placed the needs of others before her own. He spoke movingly of their shared journey – from exile and long years of separation to their eventual reunion and marriage in London – and of Riga’s lifelong devotion to the Tibetan cause.
He highlighted her tireless service as a midwife, nurse, community organiser, and founding member of the UK chapter of the Tibetan Women’s Association. Reflecting on their life together, he said: “For 52 years, Riga stood beside me as a devoted and loving wife… Her strength and encouragement made my work possible.” His words were a powerful reminder that Riga’s legacy lives on through the values she embodied: courage, humility, compassion, and selfless service.
The second tribute was delivered by Susan Burrows (known to many as Bunny), a close and long-time friend. Speaking with warmth, humour, and deep affection, Susan recalled first meeting Riga in the mid-1970s and realising almost immediately that she was “no ordinary individual.” She described Riga as “one of the least self-centred individuals I have ever known,” someone with a rare ability to empower others and make people feel welcome, confident, and heard.
Through vivid memories – from community fundraisers and Losar celebrations to Riga’s fearless work as a nurse – Susan captured Riga’s remarkable energy, integrity, and generosity of spirit. She described her as “an unforgettable example of all that is best in the Tibetan people,” and expressed the hope that Riga’s lifelong dedication to Tibet would continue to inspire future generations.
Community Gathering and Offerings
Following the prayers and speeches, home-cooked vegetarian refreshments and tea were generously prepared and served by Tsering Yangzom, Tenzin Daesel, Dolma Dorji, Dolma Norbu, and Tsering Wangmo, supported by a dedicated team of young volunteers. This simple yet heartfelt act of hospitality reflected the Tibetan tradition of generosity and the accumulation of merit in memory of the deceased.
Conclusion
For those of us who knew and worked alongside Riga Wangyal, the memorial service was both a solemn farewell and a heartfelt celebration of a life lived in service to others. Through prayer, remembrance, and community gathering, we honoured not only her passing but also her enduring legacy.
As expressed in the final dedication prayers:
“May all these virtuous actions become causes for Riga’s swift progress on the path and for the benefit of all sentient beings.”
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 