The khata

What it is

It is a scarf used in Tibetan culture to offer greetings, pay respects, and wish good fortune. In Tibetan Buddhism, it is presented to spiritual masters as a sign of respect and devotion. In some instances, it is also placed on altars or tied to sacred sites. In non-religious contexts, it is offered during significant life events - such as birthdays, graduations, or weddings - or as a gesture of hospitality when welcoming guests and a token of good luck for those setting out on a journey.

Appearance

Traditionally made of white or yellow silk, the khata is now produced in various materials (such as cotton and polyester) and colors, often featuring printed auspicious symbols and sacred mantras. It is used in countries where Tibetan Buddhism has spread: Mongolia, Bhutan, Nepal, and certain regions of India, such as Ladakh and Darjeeling.

How to use it

There are specific rules to follow when offering a khata to a spiritual teacher or a monk: it is folded in half lengthwise and presented while resting on the palms of the hands, with the body leaning forward. The teacher returns it and places it around the desciple's neck as a blessing. In everyday use, it is simply placed around the neck of the person to whom the greeting or well-wishes are being offered.

Why have a personal khata?

As Lama Michel Rinpoche has reminded us several times, quoting an important master: “A person can bless a person, a person can bless an object or a place, and an object or a place can bless a person.” That is why it is advisable to have your own khata. As it receives blessings from masters, those blessings remain within the object.

BUY YOUR OWN KHATA

Watch the video to learn how to offer the khata and how to fold it correctly.