A Symbol of Peace, Unity, and the Oneness of Humanity

The Wheel of Compassion

The Wheel of Compassion is a modern reimagining of the Tibetan prayer wheel, initiated by Tenzin Topdhen of Calgary, Alberta.

Unlike traditional wheels, it includes short scriptures, prayers, and messages of compassion, peace, and unity from many religions, cultures, and philosophies — each displayed with its own language and symbol. More detailed descriptions of these scriptures and symbols will be displayed on a separate informational board with a stand, so visitors can learn about the wisdom of each tradition.

When spun, the Wheel of Compassion symbolically spreads these values into the world, reminding us of our shared humanity.

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Inspiration

On July 6, 2025, His Holiness the Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday. From that day until July 6, 2026, the Tibetan community considers this period the Year of Compassion.

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Why Now

As a Tibetan, I felt the urgency to create a community project that not only pays tribute to him but also carries forward his vision that has changed millions of lives worldwide.

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Vision

To create a lasting, global symbol of compassion through art, dialogue, and faith.

Founder's Words

This Wheel of Compassion will be my personal initiative and contribution to the Year of Compassion Project — a way to honor His Holiness’s legacy with action.

Around the world today, too many lives are being lost in the name of religion. History has shown us the pain caused by religious conflict, and sadly, we still see people killing each other under the banner of faith.

The Wheel of Compassion stands as a response: a symbol that reminds us of what truly unites us — compassion, peace, and the oneness of humanity.

This project contributes directly to His Holiness’s first two lifelong commitments:

1. Promoting universal human values.

2. Promoting religious harmony.

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🔨 Execution & Progress

Collaborations

Calgary Interfaith Council (CIC) confirmed collaboration.

Design & Structure

Meetings with artists are underway for design and structure.

Parternships

Outreach to philanthropists and community partners in progress.

Community Building

Educational and community presentations being prepared for Calgary schools and local events.

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Our Vision

To create a lasting, global symbol of compassion through art, dialogue, and faith.

Our goals:

Build the first Wheel of Compassion in Calgary, Canada.

Inspire schools, parks, and public spaces worldwide to join the movement.

Collaborate with interfaith councils, artists, and communities to promote peace through shared action.

Each city can create its own Wheel, reflecting local voices and traditions, while staying true to the universal values of compassion, oneness, and harmony.

ABOUT THE CREATOR

Tenzin is a barber and community builder at True Gents Barbershop YYC, as well as a member of the Calgary Interfaith Council.

Tenzin Topdhen

Tenzin is a barber and community builder at True Gents Barbershop YYC, as well as a member of the Calgary Interfaith Council.

About Tenzin Topdhen

• Barber and community builder (owner of True Gents Barbershop YYC).

• Diploma in Youth Justice (Bow Valley College).

• Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies (Royal Roads University).

• Proud member of the Calgary Interfaith Council.

Living with A.D.D. has been both a challenge and a blessing, fueling his creativity and resilience. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been a superman-like figure in his life, providing vision, optimism, and meaning.

He considers himself a social artist — using creativity to build projects that uplift communities.