A sacred ritual hosted by the Panchen Lama in Xigaze, Tibet autonomous region, has attracted a large number of Han Chinese devotees to hear him speak - a sign of the growing popularity of Tibetan Buddhism among the country's urban residents.

About 100,000 devotees of Tibetan Buddhism took part in the Kalachakra initiation by the Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu during the first day of the four-day event on Thursday, according to the government news office. The initiation is regarded by believers as the highest of teachings.

Many of the Han devotees had undertaken long journeys, overcoming altitude sickness and other obstacles, to take part in the event at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, the Panchen Lama's traditional seat.