Newar Buddhism, Newar Culture on Display at Starlight Parade in Portland, USA

Mahavihara's Participation at Starlight Parade is a Hit with Portland Community

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, June 4 (Nepal Oregon News): For the first time in the history, Nritya Mandala Mahavihara represented Nepal by participating at the Starlight Parade in Portland on Saturday, June 3, 2023.

There is no doubt that it is an honor for Nepalese community in Oregon, USA to take part at Portland's Starlight Parade for the first time in community's history. The Nepalese participation at the Starlight Parade was organized by the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in collaboration with Seattle-based nonprofit 'Dabuli', Newah Organization of America - Seattle chapter and Nepali Association of Oregon.

Starlight Parade is held once a year as part of the Portland Rose Festival that was launched 116 years ago in 1907.

The Mahavihara's participation at the parade showcased traditional and historical art, music, dance and more. The focus of the Mahavihara's participation at the parade was to expose the culture and traditions of Newar Buddhism to the city and its people and also to provide an opportunity for the broader public to experience the very rich and unique but often inaccessible traditions of Newar Buddhism.

It provided an artistic platform in which not only Charya dances and Charya giti including Pancha Buddha were featured, but it also showcased Living Goddess Kumari, Lakhe Dance, Dhime Baja and so on. The Nepalese Sherpas were seen walking in their traditional dresses.

During the parade, Dhime Baja was played by Dr Subhas Prajapati of Seattle-based non-profit 'Dabuli', while Lakhe dance was the courtesy of World Newah Organization, Seattle chapter. Likewise, Raju Mali, founder president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) collaborated with the Mahavihara on the chariot of Living Goddess Kumari.

The participants offered a wide spectrum in terms of ethnicity: Newars (Buddhist as well as Hindu Newars), non-Newars, and American Buddhists.

All the Nepalese participants in their traditional Saree and Daura Suruwal were able to grab the attention of the Portland street audience.

Judging by the local radio comments, Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's participation at the Starlight Parade was a  hit with the Portland community.

There were hundreds of positive comments and supportive messages in Facebook posts related to Mahavihara's  participation at the historical Starlight Parade in Portland, USA. Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication at the Tribhuvan University,  Prabal Raj Pokhrel candidly made a comment in the Facebook:"Preservation of cultural heritage is praiseworthy." 

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Special Charya Nritya Dance Offering Organized to Felicitate Hong Kong's Dr Tina Ho in Portland

Portland, June 10 (Nepal Oregon News): A special Charya Nritya Dance offering was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Friday, June 9, 2023 to welcome and felicitate Hong Kong's Dr Tina Ho in Portland, USA.

Altogether, seven Charya nritya dances were presented at the program which was attended by 25 Charya nritya fans of Portland.

Charya Nritya dance offering event kicked off  with Mahakala charya dance which was performed by Sangha member Joshua Proto.

After that, Arya Tara - Amoghasiddhi charya dance was rendered by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Dr Tina Ho of Hong Kong Dance Mandal.

Adam Bidema of US Dance Mandal offering Charya nritya dance 'Avalokiteshvara'

Likewise, Avalokiteshvara charya dance was offered by Sangha member Adam Bidema whereas Yogini Mandala charya dance was carried out by dancer trio: Guruji Prajwal, Dr Tina Ho of Hong Kong Dance Mandal and Sangha member Anastasia Roderick. Yogini Mandala is one of the ancient and medieval Charya dance nritya which embodies Nairatma, Vajrayogini and Aakashyogini.

Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Anastasia Roderick of US Dance Mandal and Dr Tina Ho of Hong Kong Dance Mandal performing Charya nritya dance 'Yogini Mandala'

Similarly, Sangha member Anastasia Roderick presented a performance 'Vajrayogini' and Dr Tina Ho of Hong Kong Dance Mandal put 'Padmanateshvara' charya nritya dance on the stage. Finally, the special program to welcome and felicitate Dr Tina Ho was wrapped off with Guruji Prajwal's charya dance 'Mahavairochana'.

All the Charya nritya dances were skillfully choreographed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Charya gitis for all the Charya nrityas were vocalized by singers Joshua Proto and Leson Baker. The program was conducted by Sangha member Terry Satterthwaite.

Dr Tina Ho, who is the leading figure of Charya dance teaching in Hong Kong, is a Ph D in Chinese philosophy, major in Chinese Buddhism, fromthe Sun Yat-sen University of China in 2005. Dr Ho has been teaching in the colleges and sharing her knowledge in different Buddhist centers in Hong Kong in the weekends for last 20 years.

Dr Ho has written two books: "A Philosophical Analysis of Vimalakirti Sutra" (2021) as well as "Blissful Zen" (2010). She also has published a bilingual poetry book: "Dancing in my heart - Romancing the Buddha" (2017).

She has travelled to Indonesia, Taiwan, Nepal, India, Malaysia, USA and other places for learning and practicing Dharma and meditation and receiving teachings from Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche  and other great masters.

Dr Ho is also practicing Charya nritya of Newar Buddhism under the guidance of 35th lineage holder Prajwal Vajracharya and his senior student LiAnne almost 10 years. In the past four years, she has been teaching in her own Buddhist center on dances.

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Potluck Dinner, Debriefing for Starlight Parade Participation

Portland, June 11 (Nepal Oregon News): A potluck dinner and debriefing for Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's participation at Portland's Starlight Parade was organized on Saturday, June 10, 2023.

The debriefing - interaction revolved around the planning and coordination of Vihara's participation at the parade.

Speaking on the occasion, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Mahavihara, reckoned:"We were able to show the city and beyond the unity of the groups, as well as diversity and amazing cultural traditions."

The discussions also took stock of what can be done for the next year's participation. Lauding the role of the community, Prajwal Guruji said:"All the groups came together and did wonderful in their parts. The Kumari was wonderful and beautiful. The Lakhe dance was a fantastic and important addition."

Underscoring the importance of Dhime Baja, Prajwal said:"Without drumming, this would have not been as powerful!" The Raga and Charya were amazing as well, the Guruji stated.

The Mahavihara will leave no stone unturned to make even a better participation in the coming days, the Guruji said and added:"In the future, we hope for more ethnic groups from all the parts of Nepal."

A number of the Nepalese community members also expressed their views during the interaction program.

Meanwhile, on the occasion, Dr Tina Ho also handed over 'Certificate of Participation' to all the Charya Nritya dancers and Charya giti singers who had participated at the International Dance Day program organized by the Mahavihara on April 29, 2023.

The certificates of participation which were issued by Hong Kong Dance Federation were handed over by Dr Tina Ho to Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, Joshua Proto, Adam Bidema, Anna Shustrova, Anastasia Roderick, Leson Baker, Bobby Romansky and John Ryback.

Likewise, a certificate on completion of World Newah Organization-sponsored Nepal Bhasa Course was given to Dr Tina Ho by Daya Shakya, the course teacher.

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Macha Janko Ceremony Held at Vihara

Portland, June 18 (Nepal Oregon News): Macha Janko (Nepal Bhasa), Pasni (Nepali) or Annaprasana (Sanskrit) are words used for a toddler's rice feeding ceremony.

This ceremony is one of the important lifecycle rituals in Nepal, both a cultural and religious celebration, according to priest Prajwal Vajracharya. 

The ceremony is typically held for girls at five months and boys at six months, because it is at about this time the child's digestive system can easily process solid food.

Guru Prajwal Vajracharya was  in San Diego, California,  to perform the Macha Jank rituals of Riyan  (son of Kaushal Vajracharya and Selina Shakya, grandson of Dina Shakya) on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

Also,  a rice feeding ceremony of Eklabya Sharan Shakya (son of Sudip Shakya and Anuja Thapa Magar and grandson of Daya and Jaya Shakya) was held at the temple of the Mahavihara on Sunday, June 4, 2023.

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Weekly Activities in Vihara Continue

In June, as usual and as always, Dharani chanting on Zoom was conducted once a week every Tuesday evening. Similarly, Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajan singing practice were held on each Wednesday evening. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed in the mornings every Friday.

(Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in USA, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.)

 

Portland's Dance Mandal Duo Perform Charya Nritya Dances at Himalayan Fair, Berkeley

Mahavihara Lit up with 108 Butter Lamps to Mark 2567th Buddha Jayanti

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, May 7, (Nepal Oregon News):  Various programs were organized at  Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara to celebrate 2567th Buddha Jayanti on Saturday, May 6, 2023. The Buddha Jayanti programs included: kids procession around the Mahavihara, Baby Buddha Bath, Naamsangiti Chanting.

Likewise, 108 butter lamps were illuminated during the religious ceremony, followed by the dancing of Refuge Prayer Dance, a Charya Nritya dance, 108 times continuously by all American and Nepali devotees present. 

At the Buddha Jayanti event, Prajwal Vajracharya, a priest and ritual master of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism threw light on the importance of Buddha Purnima celebrations.

Several Buddhist Bhajan songs were presented by Joshua Proto, Anna Shustrova and Adam Bidema.

At the end of the program, a talent show was held. Sangha member Naveena Shakya came up with a poem on Buddha Jayanti while Axi Nityananda (an American devotee) entertained the audience by presenting a Jataka Tale - Buddha as the Rabbit "How the rabbit got on the moon."

Likewise, Daya Shakya, president of Nepali Association of Oregon, made a short presentation on Spiritual Vocabulary in Nepalese Buddhism.

In what has become a good tradition, the annual Buddha Jayanti program in Portland, USA provides the American Buddhists and Nepalese community members to celebrate food, share greetings and interact with each other. Obviously, Buddha Jayanti celebration is also a sure way to enliven and enhance the Newar Buddhist traditions and customs demonstrating the aspirations of the American Buddhists and Nepalese Portlanders to keep up the Newar Buddhist traditions alive.

More than 100 people (American Buddhists and Nepalese community members) participated at the Buddha Jayanti function in Portland, USA.

The evening Buddha Jayanti event was followed by a Kheer dinner (rice cooked in milk with sugar, cashews, cloves, cardamoms, raisins, coconuts etc) along with sweetmeats like Jeri and Lalmohan and other Achars, curries and delicacies.

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Portland's Dance Mandal Duo Perform Charya Nritya (Dances) at Himalayan Fair, Berkeley

Vajravarahi charya nritya dance

Ekajati charya nritya dance

Portland, May 24 (Nepal Oregon News): Prajwal Vajracharya, one of the seniormost Charya nritya guru and his student Bobby Romansky performed various Charya dances at the Himalayan Fair in Live Oak Park in Berkeley on Saturday-Sunday, May 20-21, 2023. 

Prajwal Guruji presented two Charya dances - Vajravarahi and Ekajati while his student Bobby offered Padmanateshvara and Avalokiteshvara charya dances at the Himalayan Fair. On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji also briefly spoke  about the meaning and history of the charya dances.

Earlier, Prajwal Guruji  also offered volunteer service for the preparation of the Fair along with member of the organizing committee Rajesh Shrestha. 

Meanwhile, the program -- which kicked off with a welcome by Sri Devi and blessing by monks from Sera Jey Monastery -- was also participated by a wide spectrum of famous singers and dancers. Numerous booths showcased Himalayan arts and crafts, food, travel and trekking.

The Himalayan Fair was launched in 1983 by Arlene Blum along with Tibetan Buddhist Monk, Lama Kunga of the Ewam Choden Center. Blum was part of the Bicentennial Everest Expedition in 1976 that set an altitude record for American women.

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Virtual Teaching on Amoghasiddhi Buddha

Portland, May 14 (Nepal Oregon News):  A virtual teaching on Amoghasiddhi Buddha was organized by Hong Kong Institute of Buddhist Studies on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

The zoom teaching on Amoghasiddhi Buddha was conducted by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, chief priest of the Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Prajwal Guruji, who is a scholar on Newar Buddhism, said:"Pancha Buddhas or Five Buddhas are the five transcendental  Buddhas of Newar Tantric Vajrayana  Buddhism. Vairochana, Amitabha, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya and Amoghasiddhi Buddhas are the Pancha Buddhas."

Pancha Buddhas including Amoghasiddhi are Sambhogkaya Buddhas and work relentlessly for the wellbeing of all sentient beings, added the Guruji.

Amoghasiddhi in Sanskrit means 'unfalling success', said the Guruji adding that Amoghasiddhi is the last among the Five Buddhas who represents purified form of jealosy. 

He is believed to protect or destroy every ounce of envy or jealosy from the heart of people who meditate on Amoghasiddhi Buddha, said the Guruji.

Throwing light on 'Om Amoghasiddhi Ah Hum', Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest, said: "Amoghasiddhi's mantra is Abhaya which means fearlessness. Amoghasiddhi is associated with the Tantric rite of fearlessness and with success or siddhi."

The virtual talk presented a detailed and comprehensive portrayal and description of Amoghasiddhi Buddha.

Addressing the zoom gathering,  the chief pujari at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara said: "Amoghasiddhi Buddha is depicted in green color holding double vajra. His consort is Arya Tara and his vehicle (vahan) is Garuda."

During the address to the zoom participants, Prajwal Guruji touched on Sapta Naga (seven serpents). Sapta Naga were the ones that protected Siddharth Gautam Buddha during his Tapasya in the forest from rains and storms, he further said.

Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"Amoghasiddhi is the only Buddha who has a canopy of snakes over his head. Among the Pancha Buddhas, Amoghasiddhi is represented in the stupa, chaitya or Chibaha Dyo facing to the north."

Twenty participants from Hong Kong took part at the zoom teaching on Amoghasiddhi. At the end of the virtual teaching, Prajwal Guruji answered to the questions of the participants.

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Vihara Organizes Potluck Picnic at Laurel Hurst Park for Starlight Parade Prep

Portland, May28 (Nepal Oregon News): A potluck picnic was organized by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara at the Laurel Hurst Park in Portland on Saturday, May 27, 2023.

The potluck picnic, which was attended by the American Buddhists as well as Nepalese community members, was organized as a rehearsal for participating at the Starlight Parade in Portland to be held on June 3, 2023.

Speaking briefly on the occasion, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara said:"Our Mahavihara has been selected for the Rose Festival Starlight parade this year. Our participation in the parade is an opportunity to showcase our identity and culture to the Portland community." 

The focus of our participation is to give an introduction to Portlanders about various Charya dances including the Pancha Buddha, said Prajwal Guruji and added:"Our participation will also feature Living Goddess Kumari, Lakhe Dance, Dhime Baja, Nepalese ladies in Haku Patasi and Dupatta saree. Sherpa community members are also expected to take part."

The Starlight is an annual parade held in Portland, Oregon as part of the Portland Rose Festival.

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Weekly Activities in Vihara Continue

In May, as usual and as always, Dharani chanting on Zoom was conducted once a week every Tuesday evening. Similarly, Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajan singing practice were held on each Wednesday evening. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed in the mornings every Friday. 

(Rabin Man Shakya, who is a Newar/Nepali journalist in America, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.) 

International Dance Day Marked at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara with Various Charya Nritya Dances

Vajracharya Stresses on Need to Promote Charya Dances

 Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Charya nritya dance 'Maya Jala'

International Dance Day was celebrated at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Saturday, April 29, 2023. The world famous day in the field of dance and culture  was observed by the Portland Baha with the presentation of several Newar Buddhist charya dances.

International Dance Day is celebrated worldwide on April 29 every year. The International Dance Day was created and proclaimed by the Dance Committee of the International Theater Institute (ITI), the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO.

Speaking briefly on the occasion, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and one of the seniormost  Charya Nritya guru in the world Prajwal Vajracharya stressed on the need to promote and preserve the ancient and esoteric Charya dances.

John Ryback, who was the master of ceremony at the event, said:"The Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA is the first and only Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple established in 350 years and it is the first Newar Vajrayana Buddhist monastery built outside of Nepal." 

Rakta Ganesh Charya Dance:

The event dedicated to the International Dance Day kicked off with the Rakta Ganesh charya dance carried out by Sangha member and charya giti singer Joshua Proto. Lord Ganesh is not only a protector of Dharma practice and prosperity, but he is also a deity who removes obstacles and difficulties for all. The image of Rakta Ganesh is generally found along with Mahakala at the entrance of monasteries in the Kathmandu valley as a protective deity. He has an elephant head, three eyes and ten arms. 'Rakta Ganesh' is a mask dance.

Vajrasattva Charya Dance:

After that, charya dance 'Vajrasattva' was presented by Sangha member Adam Bidema. Vajrasattva is considered the quintessence and source of all the Buddha families. Vajrasattva is peaceful in appearance, white in color, with one face and two arms, seated in Vajra posture. Vajrasattva has an upright Vajra in his right hand at the level of his heart, while in his left hand he holds a Vajra handled bell turned up at the left hip.

Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara Charya Dance:

Little later, Guruji Prajwal and Sangha member Anna Shustrova danced together the lovely and respectful Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara charya dance. In a beautifully-choreographed performance, it appeared that Guruji Prajwal and his student Anna had gone into a meditative state and let their bodies flow in movements with incredible hand and finger mudra. The Goddess Arya Tara and transcendent Amoghasiddhi are both green in color and as partners create perfect all-accomplishing activity that benefits sentient beings. The feminine energy of foundational wisdom and male energy of skillful means dance together and interact in mutual recognition, respect and harmony.

Vajrayogini Charya Dance:

Likewise, Vajrayogini charya dance was performed by Sangha member Anastasia Roderick. Vajrayogini is one of the ancient classical dances of Nepal Mandala. Vajrayogini dance is performed as a ritual devotion to Goddess Vajrayogini. Vajrayogini is one of the four Tantric Goddesses of the Kathmandu valley who is revered as the goddess of yogic practices. In this dance, symbolic movements of hands and legs are skillfully timed with general body movements and facial expressions. This dance shows beautiful mixture, strong sense of protection, preservation, anger and peaceful emotions. This dance is performed mainly in the Buddhist temples of the Kathmandu valley during special occasions.

Padmanateshvara Charya Dance:

Similarly, charya dance 'Padmanateshvara' was performed by Bobby Romansky. Padmanateshvara (Nasa Dyo) is the deity who represents performance arts, the yidam of charya nritya - the Lord dancing on Padma. Padmanateshvara's initial gesture is to indicate the wisdom of the heart, with the second one he touches heaven, with the third the earth. All the other symbols he holds in his different hands refer to the Buddha Dharma, and about one making decisions to follow this path. The initiation into Padmanateshvara is to incarnate the wisdom by dancing, and by dancing, share it with all. Padmanateshvara is the source of artistic inspiration, joy, compassion and equanimity.

Nairatma Charya Dance:

Then, charya dance 'Nairatma' (Nairatmya) was presented during the event by Sangha member Anna Shustrova. Nairatma (Nairatmya) is the mother of selflessness. Nairatma is the limitless clear blue sky. She is the spontaneous wisdom female energy, empty of all projection and judgement. Nairatma is a female Buddha. She is the consort of Hevajra in the Hevajra - tantra. The word 'Nairatma' in Sanskrit  means 'a woman without any ego'.

Maya Jala Charya Dance:

Also, charya dance 'Maya Jala'  was offered by Prajwal Guruji on the occasion. 'Maya Jala' is a charya nritya that is not a particular deity, but is an expression of the grim reality of samsara, or cycle existence. The Sanskrit term 'Maya Jala' literally means 'the net of confusion'. This charya nritya depicts a yogi who sees the sufferings of all beings as they wander in the misery of attachment to transient existence.

The event came to an end with the Refuge dance which was participated by Prajwal Guruji, John Ryback, Joshua Proto, Leson Baker, Anna Shustrova, Anastasia Roderick, Adam Bidema and Bobby Romansky. 

The program was participated by 25 people at the temple of the Mahavihara and 25 people on the zoom from the USA, Nepal, Hong Kong and Canada.

 Sangha members Leson Baker and Joshua Proto sang charya giti for all the charya dances performed on the occasion. Joshua and Leson are seasoned and skilled charya giti singers. Taa (little cute cymbal) was played by Leson while Kanta Dub Dub (little handy drum) was beaten by John Ryback.

All the charya dances performed by Prajwal Guruji and other Sangha members during the International Dance Day program were beautiful and fascinating and were able to reflect the stories of the inner qualities and awakening of Buddhist deities.

The news story about the celebration of International Dance Day - showcasing several ancient Charya dances by Guruji Prajwal and his students - organized by Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara was also extensively and visually covered by Image Channel, one of Nepal's prominent mainstream television station.

Meanwhile, to mark the International Dance Day, Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association also organized an event on Friday, April 28, 2023 in the zoom in which the Hong Kong Sangha members presented Mudra Zen dances and Vajra dances offerings.

Fourteen Zen dancers of the Hong Kong Dance Mandal took part at the event: Dr Tina Ho, Dr Eliza Lau, Saldon Wu, Sophie Chan, Chin-chin Chang, Simone Ng, Kerry Ho, Lok-yee Eliza Lau, Shira Chan, Patty Chan, Mary Lau, Sin-ying Leung, Wing-yee Lau and John Lui. 

(Amoghasiddhi and Green Tara charya nritya dance)

(Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara charya nritya dance)

 

(Charya nritya dance 'Nairatmya')

(Charya nritya dance 'Vajrasattva')

(Charya nritya dance 'Nairatma')

(Charya nritya dance 'Vajrasattva')

  Charya nritya dance 'Nairatmya' (Nairatma).

(Charya nritya dance 'Vajrasattva')

(Charya nritya dance 'Maya Jaal')

(Charya nritya dance 'Padmanateshvara')

(Charya nritya dance 'Vajrayogini')

(Charya nritya dance 'Rakta Ganesh')

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Zoom Teaching on Avalokiteshvara Held for HK Dance Mandal participanta

Portland, April 1, (Nepal Oregon News): A virtual teaching on Avalokiteshavara Bodhisattva was organized by the Hong Kong Institute of Buddhist Studies Association  on Saturday, April 1, 2023.

The zoom teaching for Hong Kong participants was conducted by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Newar Vajrayana priest. Prior to the virtual teaching, Prajwal Guruji recited a charya giti on Avalokiteshvara.

The virtual teaching presented a detailed and comprehensive  description of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva. 

Prajwal Guruji, who is also the co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, said:"When we do Sadhana of Avalokiteshvara and chant mantra Om Mani Padme Hung with unyielding belief and dedication, we will surely achieve realizations of great compassion and supreme Buddhahood."

Laying emphasis on the importance of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva in the Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, Vajracharya said that each of the Bodhisattva's six qualities are said to break the hindrances respectively of the six realms of existence - hell-beings, pretas, animals, humans, asuras and devas.

Vajracharya, an expert on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, stated that Avalokiteshvara is a compassionate Bodhisattva who hears the cries of sentient beings, and who works relentlessly to help those who call upon his name.

Informing the participants that there are 33 different manifestations of Avalokiteshvara, the rev Guruji said that Jana Baha Dyo and Bunga Dyo are popularly worshipped by the Newars of the Kathmandu valley. 

According to Karandavyuha Sutra, the sun and the moon are said to be born from Avalokiteshvara's eyes, Shiva from his brow, Brahma from his shoulders, Vishnu from his heart, Sarashwati from his teeth, the winds from his mouth, the earth from his feet, and the sky from his stomach, Vajracharya added. 

During the remotely held discourse, Prajwal Guruji, one of the world's seniormost and renowned  Charya Nritya teacher, said:"Avlokiteshvara charya dance is an ancient form of deity yoga meditation for physical transformation, refinement of emotions and spiritual awareness." He went on saying,"Avalokiteshvara dance is the embodiment of universal compassion and has the softest, gentlest and most fluid of dances represented in the Charya Nritya tradition."

At the end of the virtual teaching on Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, Guruji Prajwal answered to the questions of the participants. The zoom teaching was participated by 20 members of the Hong Kong Sangha.

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Charya is an Important Form of Buddhist Yoga, Says Prajwal Guruji

Portland, April 27 (Nepal Oregon News): An interview of Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and one of the most senior Charya Nritya teachers of the world, was podcast by Nepal Bhasa Times on Wednesday, April 26, 2023.

The interview was conducted by journalist Heena Bajracharya in Nepal Bhasa, the language of the Newar people of Nepal.

In the interview podcast by Nepal Bhasa Times, Prajwal Guruji threw light on importance and relevance of Kaya, Vaka, Chitta.

The Vajracharya priests maintain a Buddhist dance tradition that dates back over a thousand years and has remained, for the most part, hidden from the world. This ritual art is known as Charya Nritya  which means 'dances as a spiritual discipline', Guruji Prajwal said during the digital interaction.

During the digital conference with the Nepal Bhasa Times, Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"In the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist tradition, it is taught that there can be no liberation without singing and dancing - the physical body and the voice are the tools of transformation with which we awaken and free our minds."

In the zoom interview, stressing the importance of mudra and gestures, Prajwal Guruji added:"The practice of deity yoga supports an appreciation of the inner beauty of the body and cultivates understanding of our personal mudras as unique expression." 

In the course of the remotely held interview, the Guruji took time to shed light on role of jewelry in Charya dance. The symbolism of ornaments is important in the Charya dance. "They are associated with six paramitas (transcendental perfections) of Buddhism. The necklace expresses Dana Paramita (Generosity), while the bracelets and anklets symbolize Sila Paramita (Morality and self discipline). Similarly, ear-rings represent Ksanti Paramita (Patience) whereas sash around the waist signifies Virya Paramita (Joyful effort and diligence). Likewise, the third eye implies Dhyana Paramita (Meditation), while the crown with its five jewels (or skulls) stand for the integrity of Prajna Paramita (Wisdom).

On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji also presented a beautiful and mesmerizing Charya dance "Vajrasattva". The charya giti for the dance was rendered by Sangha member Leson Baker.

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Lord Buddha's Teachings Still Relevant

Portland, April 30, (Nepal Oregon News): On the occasion of the Buddha Jayanti, Prajwal Vajracharya, chief pujari of Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and ritual master of the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal, has sent a message of felicitations to all the Buddhists of the world.

The message of felicitations was published in "The Newarland", the online news of the Newar diaspora in the Netherlands.

In the message, Prajwal Guruji expressed the view that today more than ever, Lord Buddha's teachings and preachings are more relevant.

"The Newarland" is an online news outlet which is dedicated to Newar culture, identity and environment. Jyoti Tuladhar is the editor of the online news.

Meanwhile, a thought-provoking article "Nritya Mandala Mahavihara: Shining an International Light on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism" was published in the magazine 'Matina'.

The article was written by Kuon Hunt who is a board member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara. 'Matina' is one and only Nepalese international magazine being simultaneously published from the two continents of the world. It contains articles in three languages: Nepal Bhasa, Nepali and English.

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Buddha Jayanti Cleaning Drive Organized

Portland, April 28, (Nepal Oregon News): A cleaning drive of the temple was organized right before the Buddha Purnima celebrations.

Community members came to extend helping hand for the clean up of the temple and its surroundings.

Gabriel Quitslund, Terry Satterthwaite, Anastasia Roderick, Adam Bidema, Casey Redman, Aniruddha Shakya, Sharmista Amatya, Naveena Shakya and Rabin Man Shakya were among the volunteers who cleaned up the temple. The volunteers were provided with the lunch by Prajwal Guruji.

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Home Purification Ritual held in Hermiston

Portland, April 22, (Nepal Oregon News): When Suva and Uppa Shakya moved to their new home at Hermiston, Oregon from the old one, they needed a house purification ritual which was performed by Guruji Prajwal.

"In the Buddhist tradition, a purification ritual is conducted before people move into a new house. The purpose of the ritual is to purify the house from the evil spirits," said Prajwal Guruji.

Gurumandala Puja and Pancha Bali Puja were performed by the Guruji on the occasion.

Uppa Shakya, a Charya nritya dancer, is a board member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, while Suva Shakya, an engineer, is a Sangha member of the Mahavihar.

Meanwhile, all the usual events including the Lhuti Purnima, Dharani chanting, Sadhana practice, Buddha Bhajan practice and Charya giti singing practice were conducted on a regular basis at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in person and on the zoom.

(Rabin Man Shakya, who is a Newar/Nepali journalist in America, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.)

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Promotes Newar Buddhism in America through Charya Nritya Dances

Sixth World Newah Day Observed in Portland, USA

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

(Charya nritya dancers Anastasia Roderick, Adam Bidema and Prajwal Vajracharya)

Portland, March 26 (Nepal Oregon News): A program was organized by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, Portland, USA on Saturday, March 25, 2023 to celebrate the Sixth World Newah Day.

40 people - among them: the American Buddhists and Nepalese community members  - took part in person at the Portland's World Newah Day event. Likewise, 15 participants took part at the Portland's program on the zoom: from Nepal, USA, Britain, Hong Kong and Canada. 

The World Newah Day event kicked off with the refuge dance (Newah Buddhist Charya Nritya) performed by Prajwal Vajracharya, Joshua Proto, Gabriel Quitslund, Bobby Romansky and Adam Bidema.

Speaking on the occasion, Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala mahavihara said that celebration of World Newah Day is a chance for us to raise awareness for preservation and promotion of ancient Newar culture and heritage.

Patron of World Newah Organization (WNO) Daya Shakya threw light on the history and activities of the WNO established in 2011 by the London Declaration, and its decision in 2017 to observe the last Saturday of the month of March as World Newah Day.

Shakya also informed the gathering about the brief history of Shree Bhaskara Deva Sanskarit Keshchandra Krit Paravarta Mahavihara of Itum Bahal, Kathmandu including the ritual activities like Pravarjyasambhar and Pravarjyavishek.

Also, on the occasion, the Sangha member Adam Bidema stunned the gathering by speaking in Nepal Bhasa whereas Sangha members Joshua Proto, Gabriel Quitslund and Anastasia Roderick  stressed on the need to preserve and promote Newar culture and Charya Nritya.

Speaking on the zoom, Shovit Shakya from Estonia (but currently in Nepal) underscored the activities being carried out to upgrade Google Nepal Bhasa Translation Project, while Paubha Sayami (also virtually) expressed  his belief that WNO would be a formidable organization that works for the Newah cause.

Kritish Rajbhandari who is English professor at Portland's Reed College recited a poem "Chiniyamha Kisicha" by noted Nepal Bhasa poet Durga Lal Shrestha.

All the presentations during the event were profound and thought-provoking, but the Buddha Bhajans - Lumbini and Dasa Paramita - performed by Sangha members Joshua Proto and Adam Bidema in Nepal Bhasa stole the show.

The certificates on completion of the WNO-sponsored Nepal Bhasa course were given to Sangha member Adam Bidema and Hong Kong Sangha members Dr Tina Ho and Dickon Kong, where as life-membership certificates of WNO were handed over to Portlanders Pradeep Vajracharya and Kusumavati Vajracharya.

The Sixth World Newah Day event was followed by a Newah style potluck dinner (Newah Bhoye).

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Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Promotes Newar Buddhism in USA through Charya Nritya

Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) charya nritya dance

Portland, March 27, (Nepal Oregon News): A program "Spring Blossoming Dance Offering" showing amazing and incredible Newar Vajrayana Buddhist Charya dances was organized at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Sunday, March 26, 2023. It is to be noted that Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, since its inception in 2009 in Portland, has been promoting Newar Buddhism in America by organizing Charya Nritya dance events, by preserving Newar Buddhist lifecycle rituals, by celebrating Newar festivals and Newar Days and many other activities.

The program which showcased sacred and esoteric  Newah Buddhist meditational dances was attended by forty people in person at the temple and 22 people on the zoom. Prof Dr Miranda Shaw, Dr Tina Ho and journalist Karen Greenspan are among the virtual participants.

Prior to the starting of the Charya Nritya show, Sangha member John A Ryback, who skillfully conducted the program, said that Charya nritya is a Newar Vajrayana Buddhist ritual dance with a history going back to more than 1,000 years.

Charya meditational dances are performed by Newar Buddhist priests known as Vajracharyas as part of their esoteric meditation practice and rituals, Ryback added.

The event "Spring Blossoming Dance Offering" kicked off with Mahakala dance which was performed by Joshua Proto very skillfully. Mahakala is a wrathful protector deity, turquoise in color and awesome to behold. He is beautiful and splendorous  with his short and stout body, huge belly and fierce look. He wears a tiger skin, bone ornaments and snakes and is destroyer of all fears. Like Vajrapani, he dances upon the negative forces that fuel the path to enlightenment. Mahakala is a mask dance.

(Mahakala charya nritya dance)

After Mahakala dance, Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) charya dance  was offered by Bobby Romansky, while his consorts Mandarava was posed by Anastasia Roderick and Yeshe Tsogyal's role was performed by Anna Shrustova. Padmasambhava is wrathful and smiling, wrathful like Vajrapani. His two eyes are always wide open straightforward - always awakening the people.

Little later, Vajrasattva charya dance was put on the stage by Sangha member Adam Bidema. Vajrasattva is considered the quintessence of all the peaceful Buddha families. Vajrasattva is peaceful in appearance, white in color, with one face and two hands, seated in Vajra posture. The proper right hand holds an upright gold Vajra at the level of the heart. The left hand holds a Vajra handled bell turned up at the left hip.

Likewise, the Sixteen Offering Goddess dance was performed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Anastasia Roderick while Padmasambhava (dance by Bobby Romansky) was seen in sitting posture. The sixteen offering goddess dances, also known as Sodasha Lasya in Sanskrit, are sixteen dance postures representing various musical instrument offerings as well as other sense offerings. They are personified as the sixteen Goddesses of sensual enjoyment who show honor to the central deities of the Mandala through their pure offerings.

Similarly, charya dance 'Kurukulla' was carried out by Sangha member Anna Shrustova with flying colors. Kurukulla charya dance is one of the ancient classical dances of Nepal. Kurukulla is a fully awakened female Buddha and a magnetizing Dakini. Kurukulla is a female deity whose body is usually depicted in red garments and red jewelry. Kurukulla is also known as Ugra Tara who has four hands.

Next, the charya dance 'Green Tara' was performed by Sangha member Anastasia Roderick. Green Tara is green in color and embodies compassionate activity. Green Tara sits in a joyful ease pose with her right leg extended, always ready to come to the aid of beings. She gives generously with her right hand and holds a lotus of purity with her left hand at her heart.

The charya dance 'Singhamukha' was well rendered by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Sangha member Anna Shustrova. Singhamukha is a lion-faced female Buddha. She is red, fearless and very wrathful, emphasizing that enlightenment is not a passionate state, but rather a state of wholeness in  which one has access to all the energies and capacities of one's being. Singhamukha is a mask dance.

At the end of the "Spring Blossoming Dance Offering", a Refuge dance - a performance of Buddha Bandana dance through charya nritya - was performed by Guruji Prajwal and other Sangha members: John Ryback, Anna Shrustova, Joshua Proto, Anastasia Roderick, Leson Baker, Bobby Romansky, Gabriel Quitslund and Adam Bidema. Buddhist practitioners take refuge  daily in the Buddha - the teacher, the Dharma - the teachings and the Sangha - the community.

All the charya dances performed by Guruju Prajwal Vajracharya and his students during the program were beautiful and fascinating, and were able to reflect the stories  of the inner qualities and awakening of Buddhist deities. Sangha members Joshua Proto and Leson Baker sang charya giti for all the charya dances performed on the occasion. Leson and Joshua are seasoned and skilled charya giti singers.

Tinchu (little cute cymbals) was played by Leson Baker and Joshua Proto while Kanta Dub Dub (little handy drum - Damaru) was beaten by John Ryback.

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Zoom Teaching on Deity Tara for Hong Kong Sangha Members

Portland, March 5, (Nepal Oregon News): A virtual teaching "Inner Awakening with the Mantra" was organized by Hong Kong Dance Mandal Sangha on Saturday, March 4, 2023.  Eighteen participants from Hong Kong Dance Mandal Sangha took part at the virtual teaching.

The teaching on deity Tara was conducted by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th - generation Vajrayana priest and a scholar on Newah Vajrayana Buddhism.

Prajwal Guruji's virtual talk presented a detailed and comprehensive description of deity Tara.

Working with the Tantric practices of deity Tara, the Hong Kong participants were given an opportunity to explore techniques that empowered them to manifest our human potential. Movement, Meditation, Mudra and Dialogue were used to bring the participants deeper into the heart of wisdom, compassion and power.

Underscoring the importance of Tara Mantra - Om Tare Tutare Ture Swaha, Prajwal Guruji, a priest from one of the Vajrayana Buddhist lineage of Nepal, said:"Tara is green and embodies compassionate activity. She sits in a joyful ease pose with her right leg extended, always ready to come to the aid of beings. She gives genorously with her right hand and holds a lotus of purity with her left hand at her heart."

Prajwal Guruji further told the Hong Kong participants that chanting of her Mantra a hundred thousand times  with the motivation of Bodhichitta will cause aversion of obstacles and hindrances.

The Guruji went on saying:"Tara is an important figure in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism. She appears as female Buddha in Vajrayana Buddhism."

Tara is also known as 'mother of liberation' and represents the virtues of success in work and achievements, Prajwal Guruji added.

On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji, one of the seniormost Charya nritya teacher, threw light on the Charya dance of Tara, the female Buddha of liberating activities, and practice  how to embody and express her all-pervasive enlightened qualities through body, energy and mind. The Guru informed the virtual participants that there are 21 forms of Tara. "They are all the transformed bodies  of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of compassion", he stated.

At the end of the teaching, Guruji Prajwal replied to various questions  of the participants.

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Chuda Karma Ceremony Held in San Diego

Portland, March 19 (Nepal Oregon News): A Chuda Karma ceremony (Bare Chhuyegu) of Julian Shakya, 12, son of Birendra Shakya was performed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya who is a ritual master and chief pujari at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland.

The Chuda Karma ceremony was ritualized at Birendra's residence in San Diego, California on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Julian's Chuda Karma ceremony was held by performing Homa Puja and Gurumandala Puja and other required rituals and traditions.

The Chuda Karma boy - Julian - wore the Buddhist monk (Vichhatan chiber) dress. As per the rituals, four gentlemen poured sacred water on the head of the Chuda Karma boy. The relatives of the boy gave away the alms (Vichha) to him on the occasion. This ceremony certifies the boy to become a Bare, hence the name Bare Chhuyegu.

According to Prajwal Guruji, Chuda Karma is one of the important lifecycle rituals in a life of a man. Chuda Karma is traditionally performed for boys aged five to thirteen, says Prajwal Guruji.

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Holi Punhi Observed with Chanting of Naamsangiti

Portland, March 9, (Nepal Oregon News): Holi Punhi (Falgun Purnima) was observed by the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland on the zoo on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 by reciting Manjushree Naamsangiti.

Two other Newar festivals -- Chakan Dyo Jatra and Gurumapa Yat Ja Nakegu -- also coincide with this day of Falgun Purnima.

Naamsangiti was recited by 15 participants on the zoom including Prajwal Guruji, Mathew Bourgeois, Gabriel Quitslund, Dina Shakya, Crystal James, Naveena Shakya and Dr Rabin Man Shakya and Dr Tina Ho from Hong Kong Sangha.

Meanwhile, in March, as usual and as always, Dharani chanting on zoom was conducted once a week every Tuesday. Similarly, Sadhana Practice and Buddha Bhajan singing practice were held on each Wednesday. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed on every Friday.

(Also, please read a relevant article entitled "World Newah Organization - WNO - and the issues of Newah unity" published in the Nepal Oregon News on Dec 25, 2024.)

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