Subject: Blessings for Obama

Subject: Khata in Obama’s Pocket
A khata, (also khada; Tibetan: འ་བའགས་; Mongolian: khadag (Хадаг); Chinese: hada (哈达)) is a traditional ceremonial scarf used in Tibet and Mongolia. It symbolizes goodwill, auspiciousness and compassion. It is usually made of silk. Tibetan khatas are usually white symbolising the pure heart of the giver[1], though it is quite common to find yellow gold khatas as well. Mongolian khadags are usually blue, symbolizing the sky.
The khata is a highly versatile gift. It can be presented at any festive occasions to a host or at weddings, funerals, births, graduations, arrivals and departure of guests etc. The Tibetans commonly give a kind acknowledgment of “Tashi Delek†(meaning good luck) at the time of presenting[2]. In Mongolia, khadags are also often tied toovoos, stupas or special trees and rocks.
The Dalai Lama is known to offer Khata as a gift to diplomats, visitors, or other monks, which symbolizes purity of intention and the beginning of the relationship.[3]
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As many of you know from watching the Inauguration, Richard Blum had a prime seat and a role as escort for the First Lady. Richard sent this email to Lodi yesterday.

Lodi shared it with the Tibet world via the Voice of America this morning and he said I could share it as well…

Forwarded Message From: “Richard C. Blum”
Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:40:46 -0800
To: Lodi Gyari
Subject: The Inauguration

Dear Lodi:

I hear that during the ceremony you were on the phone to Kathmandu; presumably to Norbu. You will be delighted to know that I had a Khata at my house that His Holiness had given me. I offered it to President Obama before the ceremony. I said that I could get it delivered to him later. He said, no, that he was going to take it and have it with him; in fact, it was in his pocket when he was sworn-in. Please let His Holiness know.

I’ll talk to you soon.

Best personal regards,

Dick