The Ven. Lama Kunga, Ngor Thartse Rinpoche, is the founder and resident lama of Ewam Choden Tibetan Buddhist Center. Rinpoche was born into the Shuku family in Lhasa in 1935, the son of Tsepon Shukupa, the former Financial Minister of the Dalai Lama's government.

At the age of 7, he was recognized as the reincarnation of Sevan Repa, a Heart Disciple of Milarepa, the great 11th century yogi and poet of Tibet. Rinpoche entered monastic life when he was 8 years old and lived in Western Tibet, primarily at Ngor Monastery, in the Sakya tradition. Before he left Tibet in 1959, Rinpoche served as Vice Abbot of Ngor Monastery.

Since coming to the United States, Rinpoche has taught in New Jersey, Washington, D.C., Wisconsin and California. He has authored two translations of Milarepa's work: Drinking from the Mountain Stream and Miraculous Journey.

Rinpoche, with his quick insight, gentle presence and endless patience has touched and
benefited the lives of many students.