Tibetan disciples were barred by the Chinese government from attending "Kalachakra", a Buddhist event that will be attended by the exiled Buddhist leader, the Dalai Lama, in Bodh Gaya, India.

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Media outlets from Tibet and Nepal reported that the temporary ban has been issued, and travel agencies have been advised to restrict Chinese citizens from travelling to India until Jan. 10.

India TV reported that China had begun confiscating Tibetan citizens' passports since November last year. Family members of devotees were also advised to inform those members who had traveled to the event prior to the ban to return back to China by Jan. 3.

Zhu Weiqun, the Chairman of the Ethnic and Religious Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, told the Global Times that "Kalachakra" had lost the meaning of its intended purpose.

"Taking advantage of the presence of the Dalai Lama, the Kalachakra teachings have inveigled Tibetans into illegally going abroad over the last decade," Zhu said. "Considering the large scale ritual needs years of preparation, the India-based ceremony frequently degenerates into a political tool."

Not pleased with the turn of events, the Dalai Lama explained that such restrictions have never been imposed before in the mainland. He also advised those who were barred from travelling to keep their faith and assured that they will all be included in his prayers.

"Distance cannot dampen the sacred ties between a Lama and a disciple," the 81-year-old Buddhist leader said. "You can all pray from the far flung areas in Tibet and I assure you that you will receive the Kalachakra empowerment."

Tagschina, India, Kalachakra, Dalai Lama