Ngawang Kunga Lodro, the thirty-first Sakya throne holder, was born at Sakya Monastery in 1729. His father was the thirtieth Sakya throne holder Ngawang Sonam Rinchen.

He began reading, writing, and memorizing daily prayers under the guidance of his father. From his father he also received the empowerments and transmission of the One Hundred Sādhanas, or Drubtab Gyatsa (sgrub thabs brgya rtsa) compiled by Chim Namkha (1210-1285), and also the Sakya Kabum, the Collected Works of the Sakya Tradition. He received additional empowerments and transmissions from the thirty-third Ngor Khenchen, Namkha Samdrup. He studied with a multitude of masters.

At the age of fourteen, he received lay vows from Namkha Samdrup and the name Ngawang Kunga Lodro Tenpai Gyaltsen. He later received novice vows from Khenchen Wangchuk Phuntsok.

He became well known for his mastery and teaching of the Lamdré Lobshed, and he taught scores of prominent disciples across the religious traditions.

His writings were collected in seven volumes.

Further Readings:

Dirk Schmidt, “The Thirtieth Sakya Tridzin, Sonam Rinchen,” Treasury of Lives.