International Symposium & Exhibition Opening (Ulaanbaatar, May 12-13)
The American Center for Mongolian Studies and the Diluv Hutughtu Foundation are proud to announce the official launch of our milestone international project, Khutughtu and Lattimore: Legacy Beyond Borders. This project highlights the profound historical significance of the bond between the Diluv Khutughtu Jamsranjab, a prominent Mongolian political and religious leader, and Owen Lattimore, the pioneer of Mongolian studies in the United States. Their lifelong friendship stands as an enduring bridge for Mongolia-U.S. diplomatic, educational, and cultural relations.
International Exhibition (May 12 - June 12): This month-long exhibition at the National Museum of Mongolia allows the public to discover rare photographs, documents, and other archival treasures. Highlights include original photographs donated by the Lattimore family, archival letters and documents sourced from the Library of Congress, Harvard, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the personal collection of Brian Moser (via Titus Fossgard-Moser), and historical manuscripts and artifacts from the National Library of Mongolia and Zavkhan Museum.
The Long-awaited Return of Historical Artifacts: The opening ceremony was marked by a deeply emotional gesture from the family of Owen Lattimore (1900-1989) in the form of a donation of several personal belongings of Diluv Khutughtu Jamsranjab to the National Museum of Mongolia. Among these artifacts was the Khutugtu's personal snuff bottle, which Ms. Anne Lattimore Price (granddaughter of Owen Lattimore) personally handed to Mr. B. Tuvshin, the elected Member of Parliament from Zavkhan Province.
Educational and Cultural Outreach in Zavkhan Province (May 14-18)
Following a whirlwind two days in the capital, the educational and cultural outreach program delegation of this project traveled to Zavkhan Province from May 14-18. This was organized through the joint efforts of the Diluv Hutugthu Foundation and ACMS, in close collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Zavkhan Province, the Zavkhan Provincial Museum, and the Zavkhan Musical Drama Theatre.
International scholars and project representatives engaged deeply with the local community through public lectures, academic discussions, educational visits, and a specially-curated mini-version of the main exhibition.
Distinguished Public Lectures: Local audiences engaged with historical research presentations by delegation members Dr. Dotno Dashdorj Pount (Harvard University), Prof. Christopher Atwood (University of Pennsylvania), Dr. Saruul-Erdene Myagmar (The Library of Congress), and Academician Batbayar Tsedendamba. A special traveling pop-up version of the photo exhibition was also opened to the Zavkhan public.
A Masterpiece on Stage: The program in Zavkhan culminated in a stunning dance production entitled The Eternally Shining Paradise (Мөнхөд гэрэлтэх диваажин) at the newly-opened Zavkhan Musical Drama Theatre. This performance beautifully juxtaposed intense depictions of historical political repression and turmoil with striking choreography celebrating the spiritual landscape of the Diluv Khutughtu's birthplace near Lake Oigon, masterfully honoring his memory and sharing it with new generations.
Spiritual & Logistical Leadership: The delegation was honored to travel with H.E. Telo Tulku Rinpoche. Throughout the province, from Uliastai to the shores of Lake Oigon in Tudevtei Soum, hundreds of faithful local citizens warmly greeted the Rinpoche, received blessings, and expressed their devotion.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Unurbayar Gombosuren, the Governor of Zavkhan Province, the staff of the Governor’s Office, and all partnering regional educational and cultural institutions for their exceptional hospitality and generous support of this project.
