Candlelight Puja tribute for Dr Tony Richardson

USA times – Saturday 16th – 6pm (PDT-San Franciso)/ 8pm (CDT-Dallas)/ 9pm (EDT-New York)

Australia/Asia/Eu – Sunday 17th – 11am (AEST)/ 9am(AWST,HKT)/ 6.30am(IST)/ 2am(BST-London)

Should you add this to your computer calendar it will appear at the correct time according to your location. Alternately please use dateandtime.com

Khandro Thrinlay Chodon and especially her Australian sangha are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Dr.Tony Richardson. It was the morning of 5th August 2025 when Tony, after a long illness peacefully slipped from this life. As Tony passed shortly after Joanna Macy, he Candlelight puja on the Dakini Day weekend in August will also include Dr. Tony Richardson.

Tony had strong links to Khandro Rinpoche and her Khachodling sangha, many whom had known him for over 40 years. Together Khandro Rinpoche and Tony developed their signature “Embodied Surrender” workshops and they met for the last time just days before his passing. 

Tony was a devoted and active member of the Buddhist community. His life was infused with love for his teachers as well as the aspiration to relieve suffering in all its forms. Whether in the meditation hall, the therapy room, or among friends, he embodied a steady and joyful compassionate wisdom that touched everyone who knew him. A highly respected psychiatrist, pain specialist and a pioneering somatic psychotherapist and trainer, Tony brought a unique warmth and presence to his professional practice.

We remember Tony not only for his achievements, but for the kindness in his eyes, the patience in his listening, and the genuine care he extended to all beings. His presence enriched our community, and his absence will be deeply felt.

May his journey onward be peaceful, and may the merit of his life’s work continue to benefit countless beings.

The Flower and Candlelight ceremony on this day is a distilled version of the 49 day Shitro practice – 100 Peaceful and Wrathful Deities— an offering of light, love, and invocation for Joanna.  Together, may we transform grief and suffering into wisdom, and love into action.

Following this ceremony Khandro Rinpoche has arranged the full 49 day Shitro choega (puja) to be performed on Joanna Macy’s behalf by Himalayan yogis and hermitages of Khachodling. Khandro Rinpoche is including prayers for Tony in this same puja.

If you wish to make an offering for these pujas on Tony’s honour please visit:

notate: Tony Shitro