Guests and performers included Stephen Colbert, Debbie Harry, and Patti Smith

4.6-meter statue of Shakyamuni Buddha based on a 17th-century design

Legacy of noted Tibetan scholar remembered

Passing of distinguished scholar widely mourned

Head of the Phuntsok Phodrang Lineage passes away at the age of 86

Project expected to be completed by 2018

Recent reports of his final wishes hint at a lifelong interest in Buddhism

Leading voice of Western Buddhism to give public talk and two-day workshop at HKU