Without Mudra, There is no Mahamudra, says Vajracharya

Zoom Teaching on 'Mahamudra in Newar Buddhism' Organized

By Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, April 21 (Nepal Oregon News): A virtual teaching and presentation on "Mahamudra in Newar Buddhism" was organized by Dance Mandal Hong Kong on Saturday, April 20, 2024. The online teaching on Mahamudra in Newar Buddhism, which was participated by 30 people, was conducted  by Rev Guruji Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. 

Giving the historical details about Mudra, the Guruji said that first Mudra text is mentioned in Mahavairochana Sutra (850 to 557 BC). Mudra is also mentioned in Amoghavajra Sutra (746 to 771 BC).

Referring to Yoga Ratna Mala (ancient text), the Guruji observed that Mudra is a powerful essence, no one can destroy or break it down, it is like Vajra. In Yogini Tantra, there are four different Mudras: Samay Mudra, Karma Mudra and Dharma Mudra, and all these Mudras guide you to Mahamudra, said the Guruji.

The remotely organized presentation on Mahamudra emphasized the importance of Mudra through subtle fluidity of movement, breath and stillness.

During the zoom teaching, the Guruji stressed on the need to embody Kaya, Vak and Chitta, and underscored the importance of awakening and connecting through learning the Kaya Mudra, Vak Mudra and Chitta Mudra.

"Kaya is the body, Vak is the speech and Chitta is the mind." Prajwal Guruji reiterated that any Mudra that is made cannot be separated from Kaya, Vak and Chitta. "Our every gesture is connected  with body, speech and mind," he went on saying.

For some people, Mahamudra may look like a complicated study, but in fact it is very simple. If you live your life happily and if you die a happy man, that, in my opinion, is the Mahamudra, said the Portland based Newar Buddhist scholar.

Lauding the contributions of Mahasiddhas and Arahatas in Buddhism, the Guruji said:" There were 75 Mahasiddhas in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism. In Indian tradition, there were 84 masters whereas in Theravada there were 500 Arahatas. All of these great saints had achieved  Mahamudra." The Guruji also touched on the ancient and medieval Mahasiddhas like Shantikaracharya, the first Vajracharya guru of the Nepal Mandala, Surat Vajra Vajracharya, Lila Vajra Vajracharya, Manju Vajra Vajracharya and so on.

"Basic understanding of the Mudra is important in Newar Buddhist tradition, because without Mudra, there is no Mahamudra, said the Guruji.

Mudra is s pathway to knowledge, pathway to achieve the wisdom, pathway to achieve skillful means, the Guruji added.

The virtual presentation comprehensively delved into Mahamudra according to Newar Vajrayana tradition.

The zoom teaching also threw light on the significance of Mahamudra, on how to achieve Mahamudra through Mudra, on how to transform our mind and body through Mahamudra.

Prajwal Guruji, a 35th - generation Vajrayana priest, during the presentation discussed  how certain movements and Mudras effect health and create transformations in our bodies, how it heals our hands, feet and energy channels.

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

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Slide Presentation on 'Female Buddhas and Sacred Sexuality in Vajrayana Art and Practice' Held at Portland Baha

Portland, April 25 (Nepal Oregon News): In Vajrayana Buddhist iconography and tradition, male-female Tantric union between the Dakinis and deities is a spiritual, sacred and esoteric practice.

Prof Dr Miranda Shaw said this during a slide presentation on "Female Buddhas and Sacred Sexuality in Vajrayana Art and Practice" organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, Portland on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Vajra Yogini, Vajra Varahi and many other Dakinis who are female embodiment of enlightened energy are female Buddhas widely worshipped in Nepal and Tibet, Dr Shaw added.

The slide presentation by Dr Miranda Shaw on this less-researched and less studied Vajrayana Buddhist aspect was very brilliant and thought-provoking.

During the presentation, Prof Dr Shaw shared her insights into the iconography and character of Tantric female Buddhas, drawing on her field research in Nepal and India as well as her background as cultural historian.

Also, during the program, Prof Dr Shaw explored the pure vision of sacred intimacy portrayed by Buddha couples.

Likewise, Dr Shaw previewed new findings on different modes of Tantric partnership that she derived from the movement qualities of various Charya nritya dances.

Prior to the beginning of the presentation, Prajwal Vajracharya of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara gave a short introduction of Prof Dr Shaw to the participants at the Vihara.

25 people attended in person at the presentation event at the Mahavihara in Portland. Likewise, 30 people from the US and other countries took part at the event via Zoom.

At the end of the program, Prof Dr Shaw replied to numerous questions put forth by the participants at the Portland Baha and by participants from the Zoom.

Miranda Shaw, Ph D, Harvard University, is a Buddhist scholar known for inspiring and groundbreaking work on women in Vajrayana Buddhism, chronicled in her renowned book 'Passionate Enlightenment', which has been translated into seven languages. She is also the author of 'Buddhist Goddesses of India', a thorough and fascinating historic and iconographical study based on extensive research and deep engagement with the feminine divine.

Dr Shaw is currently completing a companion volume 'Buddhist Goddesses of Tibet and Nepal', and writing a book on Vajrayana dance to be titled 'Dancing Enlightenment: Tantric Buddhist Dance of Nepal'. She is Prof Emerita of Religious Studies at the University of Richmond and continues to explore and convey her discoveries about the profound sacred arts and embodied spiritual practices of Himalayan Buddhism. 

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Baby Shower for Teya Organized

Portland, April 28 (Nepal Oregon News): A baby shower event was organized at the Forest Refuge, Damascus, Oregon on Saturday, April 27 for expressing excitement, extending blessings and wishing joy and happiness to Prajwal-Teya family.

All the participants, who were seated like at a conference,  congratulated Teya and Prajwal on their baby shower passing over the candle light to each other and praying for the new comer. "May the Buddha bless your beautiful family" said the participants at the baby shower.

About 25 people including Teya's dad Roger Desesa graced the baby shower. Prof Dr Miranda Shaw, Prof Dr Ter Ellingson, Prof Dr Linda Iltis, Sangha members and Nepali community members were among the  guests at the baby shower.

Speaking on the occasion, on behalf of all the baby shower participants, Phyllis Moses - a Sangha member and a Yoga Therapist - congratulated Teya and Prajwal and said: May the new baby bring you endless joy and happiness.

There is a tradition in Newar culture to feed pregnant mother with Dhau Baji (beaten rice with yogurt). So the Nepalese and American participants at the baby shower event at the Forest Refuge also fed Teya and Prajwal with Dhau Baji. The baby shower was followed by a vegan, vegetarian and non-vegetarian pizza lunch.

Meanwhile, Ganga Sharma, former president of Nepali Association of Oregon, writing a post in the Facebook said:"Our day started with unique baby shower for Teya and Prajwal Vajracharya. The uniqueness of this baby shower was: rather than going and getting a glass of wine, it started with offering blessings for Teya, (mother-to-be-soon)."

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Wedding Reception Held at Forest Refuge, Damascus

Portland, April 28 (Nepal Oregon News): A wedding reception was organized at Forest Refuge, Damascus, Oregon on Saturday, April 27, 2024 to celebrate Teya-Prajwal wedding. 

About 120 people including Joseph Houseal of Core of Culture, Chicago, professors from California and Washington attended the wedding reception. Almost all the Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara attended the wedding reception. 

Likewise, the Nepalese community members in Oregon, the representatives of Nepali Association of Oregon, NRNA - USA - Oregon chapter and Nepaa Chhen, Nepal Oregon News and Prajwal's Nepali friends from Washington and California also attended the reception.

"Our dear friend Helen Appell - who is the founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara -provided space for wedding reception at Forest Refuge, Damascus," said Prajwal Guruji and added that without her generosity this reception would not have been possible.

Snacks and drinks were served to the guests at a Buddhist style gazebo on the premises of Forest Refuge. According to the guests, the surroundings at the Forest Refuge were so amazing and wonderful. "The snacks were yummy especially the Nepali style Wo (lentil cakes)."

On Saturday, April 27, the baby shower and wedding reception was followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared at Forest Refuge by chef - Tom Weatherell and his daughter. 

The wedding reception was followed by Nepali songs by Gauri Vaidya, Bikram Vaidya, Shashi Bajra Bajracharya and Suva Shakya, and also a beautiful dance by Teya and Prajwal. The guests were also seen dancing on the floor on the songs of Gauri and Shashi.

The wedding reception at Forest Refuge -- a celebration of Prajwal and Teya's union and journey forth as a married couple -- was an unforgettable wedding event. 

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Sangha Member Ani Bereaved of His Brother

Portland, April 9 (Nepal Oregon News): Durgatiparishodhana text was chanted every day for a week (April 9-15) by Prajwal Guruji at the temple of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara for late Surendra Muni Shakya who passed away at Max Hospital in New Delhi on April 8, 2024. Shakya died at age 57 of liver disease.

Late Shakya is the elder brother of Anirudra Muni Shakya, a Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Late Surendra Muni Shakya, who was born to father Dasharath Muni Shakya and mother Japa Laxmi Shakya in 2023 BS in Tansen, Palpa, Nepal, was associated with various associations and organizations. Late Shakya was former president of Palpa Jaycees and former treasurer of Lumbini Development Trust (LDT). He is survived by wife Neelima Shakya and a son and a daughter.

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Indian Classical Music Concert Held at Portland's Newar Buddhist Temple

By Joshua Proto and Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, April 7 (Nepal Oregon News): An Indian classical music concert featuring Portland's very own representative of the Kirana Gharana - Michael Stirling - was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

Prior to the starting of the Hindustani Raga concert, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara gave a brief introduction of Michael Stirling, Joss Jaffe and other artistes.

Michael Stirling, the lead vocal artist, was joined by multi-instrumentalist and Tabla maestro Joss Jaffe. Lucy Stirling and Joshua Proto also accompanied Michael Stirling on tambura.

The performance began first with alap in Raga Bhimpalasi. The note-by-note unfolding of this springtime raga lulled the audience into a relaxing and peaceful mood.

Following the alap was both a short vilambit and then drut composition, where Michael's voice effortlessly blended and bent between the melisma of the tamburas and Joss's excellent and consistent laya.

Following Raga Bhimpalasi, was Raga Malkauns, the Midnight Raga, another staple in the Kirana Gharana. Once again, Michael demonstrated a technical and emotional embodiment of the alap that moved the atmosphere to a peaceful and contemplative mood.

Both vilambit and drut compositions were also displayed as well. Finally, Michael wrapped up the concert with a drut composition in Raga Bharavi. Raga Bhairavi is tradtionally the last raga of the concert.

There were 50 attendees and each one expressed their gratitude to Michael, Joss, Lucy and Joshua for their artistic display.

Writing on his social media platform on Saturday, April 6, 2024, Michael said:"What a blessing to sing Raga in such a beautiful high vibrational space with so many wonderful people surrounding us."

Michael added in his Facebook post:"Grateful for such a wonderful experience offering our group performing Indian classical music at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara. And to Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya for hosting us. As a friend of mine is known to say, Big Infinite Heart. Thanks too, to everyone who came out on a rainy spring evening. We all really appreciated your presence and ears! Was wonderful."

Michael Stirling is an instructor of Raga singing at Sun Gate Studio and adjunct faculty at Lewis & Clark College, Portland.

He is a singer of North Indian classical vocal music of the venerable Kirana Gharana. He is a disciple of the late master of classical Indian Raga singing, Pandit Pran Nath (1918-1996) and a student of Nathji's senior disciple, the legendary composer/performer, Maestro Terry Riley.

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Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Celebrates Seventh World Newah Day in Portland, USA

By Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 31 (Nepal Oregon News): A program was organized by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM), Portland, USA on Saturday, March 30, 2024 to celebrate the seventh World Newah Day. The World Newah Day program organized at Portland's Newar Buddhist temple was a pot-pourri of everything: various scholarly presentations, a Newah dance based on the arrival of the spring, Manjushree charya dance, recitation of poems in Nepal Bhasa, chanting of Buddha Bhajans in Nepal Bhasa, release of a book 'Newarology Matters' and finally a Newah Bhoye on the Lapte (plate made of green leafs)

Most importantly, the seventh World Newah Day program in Portland kicked off with Halin Newah Mya (World Newah Song).  55 people - among them: the American Buddhists, Newah and Nepalese community members - took part at the Portland's World Newah  Day event.

Making a presentation, Teya Desesa-Vajracharya, a Sangha member and Prajwal Guruji's spouse, said:"I was personally raised in a household of Tibetan Buddhist practitioners from Nyingma tradition. Teya added:"In Newar Buddhism, the deities are dancing and it is so inspiring to witness the beautiful, elaborated, colorful rituals that are performed in this temple."

Daya Ratna Shakya, patron of World Newah Organization (WNO) 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. Stressing the need for elaborate works and plans for promoting and preserving Newah language and culture, Shakya expressed the view that it is a unique civilization that is on the verge of extinction due to loss of language and formal education to new generation.

Speaking on the occasion, Adam Bidema, a Sangha member of NMM and a Charya nritya dancer, said:"The Newah people through culture and rituals have learned to embrace these three things - awakening, emptiness and rebirth. Taking a trip down memory lane about his visit to Nepal, Adam said:"No matter, the kind of Dharma practice we have there in Kathmandu, consciousness comes there to become part of one thing to embrace or become part of the complexity of life -- the rituals, the dances. The reflections and expressions of the unification of this instantness of wisdom and working being the path to this movement." 

Culinary educator Bikram Vaidya made a presentation "Newah Culinary Heritage". Addressing the gathering, Vaidya said that Newah people's knowledge, skills and practices have been transferred from generation to generation, and this provides communities with a sense of identity and continuity." The word 'Bhoye' in the context of a feast or meal is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Bhojan' which means 'meal'. In Nepal, Bhoye or Bhoj refers to a feast or a grand meal, often associated with celebrations, festivals, or special occasions, Vaidya added. He went to say:"Bhoye is a significant  part of Newah culture and hospitality, where hosts prepare a variety of dishes to share with guests. During Bhoye, it is an opportunity for people to come together, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate important moments in life.  Newah Bhoye is an elaborate meal, and upto 25 dishes are served during a four course service."

Also, speaking on the occasion, journalist Rabin Man Shakya shed light on the relevance of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in promoting Newah culture and heritage in the USA and said:"Nritya Mandala Mahavihara was established in Portland with full financial support from Helen Appell. Helen Appell and Prajwal Vajracharya are the co-founders of the Mahavihara. When it comes to the promotion and preservation of Newar Buddhism,  Newar culture and Newar traditions, the role and significance of the Mahavihara is unparalleled  comparing to other Nepali community organizations and other Newah organizations in the USA."

Likewise, Ambika Shakya, Anushika S Thapa and Sunil Kumar Thapa presented a very beautiful Newar dance based on the song 'Siri Siri Fasan Jita Kuchu Kuchu Nakkal'. The Nepal Bhasa song is inspired from Basanta Dhun, the ancient folk tune popular along the Nepal Mandala as a celebration, expressing gratitude towards nature.

Furthermore, a very powerful and esoteric  Manjushree charya dance was offered by Sangha member Anastasia Roderick. The vocal rendering for the dance was performed by Sangha member Joshua Proto. Manjushree, the lord of wisdom, holds a book and wields a sword to cut through ignorance. Manjushree is golden in color and speaks the universal language of all beings to aid them in understanding reality.

Moreover, Sangha member Kusumabati Bajracharya presented a Nepal Bhasa poem on 'Ayla' (wine) which explains us that a little bit of wine is even better for health. Sangha member Naveena Shakya recited another Nepal Bhasa poem entitled 'Ma Bhaye' (mother tongue) in which she reiterated the need and importance of speaking in the mother tongue.

Similarly, two Buddha Bhajan songs in Nepal Bhasa (1) Tri Ratna Mhasika and (2) Anityagu Sansar were performed by Joshua Proto, Adam Bidema and Anna Shustrova.

At the end of the program, a book entitled 'Newarology Matters' written by Daya R Shakya was released by Teya Desesa - Vajracharya. Journalist Rabin Man Shakya who wrote the foreword for the book made a brief review of the book on the occasion. The program which was conducted by Daya Shakya was followed by a Newah-style Bhoye on the Lapte (plate made of green leafs) and 'Ayla' (wine) being poured from 'Anti'.

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Prajwal Guruji Attends Newar Buddhist Meet at UC Berkeley

By Teya Desesa -Vajracharya and Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 11 (Nepal Oregon News): Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest and co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, attended a Newar Buddhist conference in Berkeley, California on March 8-10, 2024.

The conference on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism was organized  by Numata Center for Buddhist Studies at University of California, Berkeley, and co-sponsored by Glorisun Global Network, Institute for South Asian Studies, and Himalayan Studies at Berkeley, California.

The opening ceremony kicked off on Friday, March 8 with wine, beer and refreshments. It gave an opportunity for presenters and distinguished guests to have an informal interaction with each other. This was a very special occasion, and the first of its kind at UC Berkeley.

Day one of the conference on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism consisted of four lecturers speaking on the subject of 'Monastic Buddhism and Its Purported Domestication'. Todd Lewis of Holy Cross College, who is soon to become a professor at Harvard University, gave his presentation on 'Textual Archives, Arts and Ritual: Early Newar Buddhism'.

Similarly, Samuel M Grimes, Shinjo Ito, post-doctoral fellow, UC Berkeley gave the presentation:"Was There Ever a Local Celibate Samgha in Nepal after the Lichhavi Period? A Survey of the Evidence." Likewise, Alexander von Rospatt, UC Berkeley presented a thought-provoking paper on "The Treatment of the Monastic Ordination as a Rite of Passage in the Parajika Literature and Its Precursors".

Furthermore, Christoph Emmrich, Universty of Toronto dwelt on "Malla Period Girlhood Rites. Textualization of the Ihi and Bahra in Late Medieval to Early Modern Newar Manuals".

The second day of the Newar Buddhist conference was devoted to the topic of "Vajrayana Practices in Nepal." The following were the speakers and their presentations: 

Peter-Daniel Szanto, Eotvos  Lorand University, "A Tibetan in Nepal during the End of the World"

Ryan Damron, 84000: Translating the words of the Buddha

"The Making of a Vajracharya: The Influence of Newar Buddhism on the Career of the Indian Pandita Vanaratna"

Tsunehiko Sugiki, Hiroshima Universty, "The Psychophysiology of the Samara Literature"

Kris Anderson, 84000 Translating the Words of the Buddha

"Traces and Variations: Development of the Utkranti Funeral in Newar Buddhism"

Manik Bajracharya, Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities

"Royal Patronage of the Cult of Bungama-Lokeshvara under King Srinivasa Malla"

Camillo Formigatti, Independent Scholar

"Remaking Buddhism for Early Modern Nepal. Jayamuni and His Role in 17th Century Newar Buddhism"

Megan Howard Masang, Yale University

"The Textual History of the Lake-Draining Episode in the Svayambhupurana"

Miroj Shakya, University of the West

"A Liberator of Hell Beings: Nepalese Legends of Jatadhari Lokeshvara"

Petra Lamberson, UC Berkeley

"Vishnu Bows and Shiva Cries: Buddhist Mahatmya Literature of the Nepal Valley"

The third and final day of the Newar Buddhist conference was dedicated to the Arts. The following were the speakers and their topics of discussions:

Makato Kitada, Osaka University 

"Caca Songs. So Called New Caryapada in Kathmandu"

Suyog Prajapati, University of Michigan

"Always Watching: Sacred Gaze Through the Newar Jhya and Its Indo-Islamic Contexts"

The conference on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism wrapped up with a group workshop entitled "Tools for the Study of Nepalese Buddhism."

Prajwal Guruji was very grateful to have been a guest at this exciting and amazing gathering of brilliant minds and was deeply inspired by each presenter. The Guruji was happy to make connections with distinguished speakers and attendees with such passionate interest in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism. 

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Zoom Teaching on 'Kaya, Vak, Chitta' Organized for Dance Mandal Japan

By Teya Desesa - Vajracharya and Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 16 (Nepal Oregon News):  A virtual teaching on 'Kaya, Vak, Chitta' was organized on Friday, March 15, 2024 for students of Dance Mandal Japan. The remotely held teaching which was conducted by Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a priest from one of the Vajrayana Buddhist lineages of Nepal, provided an opportunity to the activists of Dance Mandal Japan to learn about the relevance and importance of Kaya, Vak and Chitta in the real life.

Prajwal Guruji inspired the students of the Dance Mandal Japan with his teaching on how to embody the Kaya, Vak, Chitta, and how to awaken and connect through learning the Kaya Mudra, Vak Mudra and Chitta Mudra.

Kaya is the body, Vak is the speech and Chitta is the mind, the Guruji told the Japanese participants. Prajwal Guruji emphasized that any Mudra that is made, cannot be separated from Kaya, Vak Chitta. Our every gesture is connected with body, speech and mind, the Guruji said.

The Guruji kicked off the teaching with offering praise to Padmanateshvara, the Lord of Dance. The noted Charya dance teacher related the iconography of Padmanateshvara with Kaya, Vak, Chitta, as the dancing Bodhisattva has ten arms, and is holding the tools to help all sentient beings, dancing on top of a lotus flower.

Kaya is the form, how you see yourself with ten arms. Vak is the speaking of the meaning of holding the tools and being adorned with beautiful garments and  ornaments, representing  what he gives to the world -- unconditional compassion and kindness. The mind is the combination of body and speech, from which the Bodhisattva gives meaning and purpose of life through his being, Prajwal Guruji concluded.

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Virtual Presentations on Sacred Documentation in the Himalayas

Portland, March 31 (Nepal Oregon News): An international virtual presentation on Sacred Documentation in the Himalayas, which was hosted by Yangchenma Arts & Music, was organized in March, 2024 by Core of Culture. The zoom program was attended by 20 participants. The four-week event was a journey through the history and culture of Himalayan dance traditions. 

The program was a practical series presented by Core of Culture with Prof Lindsay Gilmour of University of California at Irvine and Joseph Houseal, director of Core of Culture. Each of the four 90-minutes session explored different approaches to the documentation of sacred traditions in the Himalayas, and revealed the evolution of fieldwork, dance research and digital documentation over the past 25 years.

These rare and endangered dances are hundreds - even a thousand - years old, ranging across the spiritual landscape from Kashmir, through Zanskar and Ladakh, extending to Himachal and Arunachal Pradesh in India, and onto Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Japan, China and Tibet. Special guests at the program were: Newar Tantric priest Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, wilderness specialist and cinematographer Nathan Whitmond and Ladakhi cultural activist Dr Thinles Dorje.

During the program, Prajwal Guruji threw light on the significance of Kaya, Vak and Chitta Mudras. Laying emphasis on the importance of Mudra, Prajwal Guruji discussed how certain movements and Mudras effect health and shared yogic exercises for hands, feet, body and energy channels.

Furthermore, the Guruji said:"The hand and finger Mudras represent different energies and moods of deities. The left hand symbolizes  the female energy, which is associated with absolute reality and wisdom and the right hand symbolizes the male energy which is associated with conventional reality and skillful activity. Even the eyes and mouths of the dancing deities express the esoteric feelings and emotions."

Joseph Houseal is founder  and director of Core of Culture, a non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding intangible world heritage with an emphasis on endangered dance and movement tradition in the healing, meditation and martial arts.

Prof Lindsay Gilmour is a performer, choreographer, filmmaker and educator. Her work explores  presence, ritual, and rebellion -- fusing text, voice and the moving body.

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Naam Karan Sanskara Held for a Baby in SW Portland

Portland March 13 (Nepal Oregon News): A Naam Karan Sanskara ritual was held by Prajwal Guruji for a newly born baby of Dr Ajay Pradhan and Susan Rajkarnikar at South West Portland on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

As per the ritual, the mouth of a toy duck was poked with the mouth of the newly born baby. That is because a duck on the pond takes only good things and discards the bad and evil things. "A lot of  crazy things are happening in the world. We should be careful. We should take good things and discard bad things like a duck does," said Prajwal Guruji.

The Naam Karan Sanskara is performed to give the newborn a name and an identity. The rituals conducted during the ceremony are to seek blessings for the newborn for his/her good health and a long and prosperous life ahead, Prajwal Guruji, a ritual master, said. The Guruji on the occasion performed a Kalash Puja. The Sanskara is also known as Machabu Byankegu in Newar culture.

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First Chudakarma Ceremony Held at Portland's Newar Buddhist Temple

 Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Feb 18 (Nepal Oregon News): Chudakarma ceremony of Siddhartha Muni Shakya (son of Anirudra Muni Shakya and Sharon) and Ian Shakya (son of Ishan Shakya and Nafisa Tamrakar) was held at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, Portland, USA on Saturday, Feb 17, 2024.

This was a historic event because Chudakarma of Shakya boys was held at Portland Baha in USA for the first time, although many Bratabandha ceremonies were ritualized by Prajwal Guruju in the past.

During the Chudakarma ceremony, Gurumandala Puja, Kalash Puja, Homa Puja and other required pujas were chanted and ritualized by Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajracharya priest.

In Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, Chudakarma - which is one of the very important lifecycle rituals is observed by the Vajracharya and Shakya boys of age 5 to 13. The head of the boys are shaved completely and the boys are presented with loin-cloth.

Prajwal Vajracharya, who is a priest as well as a ritual master of the Vajracharya  Buddhist traditions of Nepal, says that Chudakarma is a samskara (sacrament) in which a child's head is totally shaved off for the first time in his life.

Chudakarma is also known as 'Bare Chhuyegu', 'Prabajya Sambar', and 'Acharyabhisheka' (for Vajracharya boys) in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, added Prajwal Guruju. 

The Guruju maintained that the Mahavihara would give continuity to perform Chudakarma ceremony for Newar Buddhist community of USA in future as per the Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.

During the Bare Chhuyegu ceremony, the relatives of the boys and other guests performed traditional 'Baaran Chhuyegu' in which they offered jaki (raw rice) in a Gulpa and gifts to the Chudakarma boys. Similarly, as per the rituals, four gentlemen (from among the Vajracharya and Shakya castes) poured sacred water on the head of Chudakarma boys. Also on the occasion, the Guruju dabbed 'Sinha' on the forehead of all the guests and provided them with 'Kokha'.

The Mahavihara was cleaned for the Chudakarma ceremony. At the end of the ceremony, the Chudakarma boys and all the guests walked in around the Buddhist temple three times. Breakfast and lunch were served to all the guests.

The news story about the first Chudakarma ceremony held at Portland's Newar Buddhist temple was covered by imagekhabar.com

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HKBSA Celebrates Avalokiteshvara Day with Various Mudra  Zen Dances

Portland, Feb 5 (Nepal Oregon News): Avalokiteshvara Day was celebrated by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) on Sunday, Feb 4, 2024 on the zoom with various programs and Vajra dances.

The virtual event to celebrate Avalokiteshvara Day was divided into five parts: (1) Offerings -- Refuge prayer, Seven Limb Prayer (2) Joy -- Mahamayuri Zen dance, White Tara Zen dance (3) Loving Kindness and Compassion -- Introduction to 12 months Lokeshwor Dharani, Avalokiteshvara zen dance (4) Merit and Wisdom -- Prajna Paramita charya dance, Vasundhara charya giti, Saraswoti charya giti, Vajra Saraswoti Vajra Dance and (5) Supplement and Dedication, 100 syllable mantra chanting.

In this way, the remotely held program  to mark Avalokiteshvara Day kicked off with Refuge prayers and Seven Limb Prayer (Sapta Vidhana Puja - from the Bhadra Charya Desana) chanted by Prajwal Guruji and followed by Joshua Proto, Anastasia Roderick, Adam Bidema, Susan Morningstar at the Portland temple and other virtual participants from the HKBSA.

After that, under the theme 'Joy', Mahamayuri Zen dance and White Tara Zen dance were presented by the Hong Kong Dance Mandal. Mahamayuri Mudra Zen dance was performed by Sin Ying Leung, Wing Yee Lam and Sam Ng whereas White Tara Mudra Zen dance was offered by Shira Chan, Patty Chan, Sin Ying Leung, Wing Yee Lam. 

Addressing the virtual gathering, Dr Tina Ho of HKBSA threw light on White Avalokiteshvara - Jana Baha Dyo, Dharani and Mantra.

On the occasion, 12-months Lokeshwor Dharani was chanted by Prajwal Guruji followed by other participants. Likewise, Avalokiteshvara Mudra Zen dance which was presented by Hong Kong Dance Mandal  was performed by Dr Tina Ho, Shira Chan, Sin Yin Leung, Wing Yee Lam, Sam Ng, Mary Lau, John Lui, Elaine Pang, Nora Ng and Cynthia Ng. Furthermore, a brief meditation was also conducted on the occasion.

Likewise, under the theme 'Merit and Wisdom', Prajna Paramita charya dance was performed by Prajwal Vajracharya. Saying that Prajna Paramita is the mother of all Buddhas, Prajwal Guruji explained that Prajna Paramita means perfection of wisdom in Sanskrit.

Likewise, Vasundhara charya giti and Sarashwoti charya giti were vocalized by Prajwal Guruji, Joshua Proto, Anastasia Roderick, Adam Bidema and Susan Morningstar at the temple.

Besides, rare pictures on Vasundhara sculptures and paintings were demonstrated by Dr Tina Ho at the event. Paintings of Vasundhara Devi created by HKBSA members Shira Chan, Patty Chan and Mary Lau were also shown at the virtual program.

Moreover, during the event, Vajra Sarashwoti Vajra Dance was also put on the stage by Hong Kong Dance Mandal. Vajra Sarashwoti Vajra Dance was carried out by Sin Ying Leung, Wing Yee Lam, Sam Ng, Shira Chan, Mary Lau, John Lui and Dickon Kong. All the Vajra dances and Mudra Zen dances performed during the event by Hong Kong Dance Mandal members were skillfully choreographed by Dr Tina Ho.

The virtual event to mark Avalokiteshvara Day concluded with Supplement and Dedication -- 100 syllable mantra chanting by Prajwal Vajracharya followed by other zoom participants. 

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Workshop -- on How to Make a Prayer Wheel from Recycled Objects -- Held at Portland Baha

Portland, Feb 25 (Nepal Oregon News): A workshop on how to make a prayer wheel from recycled objects was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Saturday, Feb 24, 2024.

The workshop was conducted by Pepper Kocsis who is a Buddhist and an artist. Pepper says:"I am always looking for ways that I can explore my own creativity within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition."

The workshop was an opportunity for the participants to learn the art and skill of making prayer wheels out of recycled objects.

Laying emphasis on the relevance of prayer wheels and importance of celebration of joy in culture, Pepper says:"I would love to see prayer wheels becoming a ubiquitous part of Western culture, expressed in pop culture, public art installations, prayer wheels on street corners, in people's cars and homes. An object that emits joy recognizable by all."

Pepper, who earned her degree in 2017 from the Oregon College of Arts and Crafts, is also a Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland.

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Regular activities:

Monthly Naam Sangiti chanting on the Full Moon Day, weekly activities: Dharani chanting (Tuesday), Sadhana practice, Buddha Bhajan practice (Wednesday) and Charya giti practice (Friday) -- all were conducted on a regular basis at the Mahavihara and through the zoom.

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Newar journalist in USA)

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Prajwal - Teya Wedding Solemnized as per Newar Vajrayana Tradition

 Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Jan 28 (Nepal Oregon News): A marriage ceremony of Teya De Sesa and Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya was solemnized on Saturday, Jan 27, 2024 at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara by priest Helen Appell as per the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.

Helen, who is the founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first Newar Buddhist temple and study center in the West, is a serious Buddhist practitioner and has studied Vajrayana for many years in India, Nepal and the US.

The wedding ceremony at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara is a historical moment because the nuptial-tie between a Vajracharya Guruju and an American lady was solemnized for the first time by a Westerner Vajrayana priest at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first and only one Newar Vajrayana vihara outside of Nepal.

All traditional Newar Vajrayana rituals and chantings including Kalash Puja were performed by priest Helen during the wedding.

Prajwal is himself a Newar Vajrayana priest and Teya, an American, is affiliated to Pureland Farms, a Tibetan monastery in California. But they have made an important decision to hold each other's hand and share their future as husband and wife.

The wedding ceremony of Teya and Prajwal in Portland was arranged by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's Sarvasangha.

Wearing a red Sari embroidered with gold thread and dotted with sequins, wearing all the required gold ornaments bride Teya and appropriately attired groom Prajwal sat across from priest Helen.

Prajwal and Teya then presented each other with Kisli, small bowls containing rice, coins and betel nuts, while prayed for good health and long life together.

Newar wedding rituals include many unique features, including the use of Sinha-Mu (five-story stupa-like colored powder holder), from which they were given Tikas. Likewise, there was also a brief mirror reflection (Jwola Nhayakan) ritual.

Next, Swayambar was the most important component of the wedding ritual in which the bride circled the groom three times and placed a 'dubo' garland on the neck of the groom. After that, the groom also placed 'dubo' garland on bride's neck. Circumventing the groom three times binds the couple's energies together and brings peace, happiness and prosperity.

At the same time, under Shiffala Lwakegu ritual, the heads of the bride and groom were banged together; and rice, flowers and fruits were poured (shifan luigu) over the heads of the bride and groom.

The wedding rituals also included offering of 'Thaye Bhu' feast for the groom and the bride, and Khen Sagan in which wine, fish and eggs were offered to the bride, groom and the family.

'Thaye Bhu' is a variety of 84 different foods prepared on an extra large plate (bhu) for auspicious occasions especially the wedding ceremonies.

Likewise, little later, the newly wed couple and friends who were present at the wedding ceremony circumvented the temple three time.

Similarly, parade of the newly wed - Janti - was taken out around the neighborhood of the Mahavihara, and the ongoing cars on the streets honked at the procession as a welcome gesture.

Among the guests, the American as well as the Nepalese ladies were dressed in the red Saris, whereas men were seen in Daura Suruwal, suit and Nepali Topi.

There were about 55 guests at the wedding ceremony at the Mahavihara. Present on the occasion were the board members of the Mahavihara, Sangha members and representatives of the Nepali community in Portland.

The wedding ceremony was followed by a lunch. A breakfast was also served in the morning.

It is to be noted that Prajwal - Teya wedding was solemnized on Sunday, Dec 3, 2023 at the Pureland Farm in California as per Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

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Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Greets New Year 2024 with Dhalan Danegu Rituals

Portland, Jan 2 (Nepal Oregon News): A New Year celebration purification ritual - Dhalan Danegu - was held at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihar on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. The purification ritual which was held for about three hours was performed and led by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya.

Altogether, 22 people - American and Nepali Sangha members - joined  the Puja for purifying and reviving old energy of the previous year and for overcoming obstacles and opening to fresh new potential through the annual New Year's 'Dhalan Danegu' ritual at the Mahavihara.

'Dhalan Danegu' which originated in the third century in the Nepal Mandala is a ritual to purify mind and body. It is a ritual dedication to Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, according to Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest.

The Gurumandala Workshop trainees - Riyaz Khan, Gabriel Quitslund and Naveena Shakya - were also among the participants of the purification rituals.

The traditional community ceremony honored oneself and others by making offerings of purified elements and was guided by using one's own mandala of sand.

A special Puja Sankalpa consisting of Jaki, Sinha, Ita, Dhup, Swan, Jajanka, Taaye etc was carefully prepared for each participant who were seen sitting cross-legged in different lines inside the temple.

A sand mandala, a circle, or cosmic diagram for use in ritual or inner visualization, had been drawn for the use of each participant. Also, three Gojas on the sand mandala were worshipped during the ritual.

On the occasion, participants were also given time for short meditation. Similarly, a long Pasuka (sacred thread) was used, spread, passed over to all the New Year purification ritual participants. It was an important component of purification ritual.

Purification ritual event was followed by a Nepali-style dinner at the Mahavihara.

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Teaching on Pancha Buddha Organized at Pureland Farm, CA

Portland, Jan 12 (Nepal Oregon News): A sacred Buddhist art and dance retreat 'Mandala of the Five Buddha Families' was organized at Pureland Farms, California from Jan 5-11, 2024. The retreat was conducted jointly by Tiffany Gyatso and Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya.

The retreat at the Pureland Farms was an opportunity for the participants to get first-hand information and knowledge about arts on five Buddhas and Pancha Buddha Charya Nritya from the experienced  and seasoned teachers. 

Speaking on the occasion, Tiffany Gyatso said:"A Mandala, meaning 'circle' in Sanskrit, is a geometric representation of enlightened wholeness."

The participants were given opportunity to connect with the Mandala of  the five Buddha families through art and drawings.

During the retreat, Tiffany Gyatso presented a detailed and comprehensive description on how to complete the Mandala uniting all the elements together in the complete circle.

During the five day retreat, Tiffany Gyatso, a Tibetan Thangka painter and sacred geometry artist, dealt with practice through art, creating and coloring the Mandala with mindful awareness. Each day was devoted by Tiffany to one of the five Dhyani Buddhas during the art retreat.

Meanwhile, also during the retreat, Prajwal Vajracharya, noted Charya dance teacher threw light on different aspects of the Pancha Buddha charya dance.

He said:"Pancha Buddha charya dance is performed in honor of the five Dhyani Buddhas - Vairochana, Aksobhya, Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi."

Prajwal went on saying:"The Pancha Buddha Charya Dance is attributed to Lord Buddha. Pancha Buddha or five wisdom Buddhas  are the five transcendental Buddhas of Tantric Buddhism."

Different colorful costumes used by the Charya dancers are symbolic to sky, earth, water, fire and air, said Prajwal Guruji adding:"Each performing Charya dancer has particular posture, color and direction."

Laying emphasis on the power of hand Mudra, the Guruji also explained the role of sitting meditation, and need for making a mind connection to the deity.

Saying that Charya nritya is key to enlightenment, Prajwal Guruji underscored the importance of the five wisdom Buddhas and their vehicles.

During the retreat, Prajwal Guruji performed singing for Pancha Buddha charya dance. Likewise, he also demonstrated the Pancha Buddha charya dance for the participants.

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Sacred Rituals Performed to Pay Tributes to late Tamrakar

Portland, Jan 25 (Nepal Oregon News):  Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya performed the 45th day ceremony death rituals for late Madan Sen Tamrakar on Wednesday, Jan 24, 2024 at the residence of Mrinal Sen Tamrakar, son of late Tamrakar.

The Gurumandala Puja, Mamaki Puja and other rituals were conducted by Guruji Prajwal. 

The Shraddh rituals are conducted so that the heavenly journey of the deceased soul after death is comfortable and stress-free.

Madan Sen Tamrakar, 67, passed away on Dec 12, 2023. His antyesthi samskara (funeral sacrament) was held in Portland on Dec 13, 2023. 

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in the US) 

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Jana Gayak Bhrigu Ram Shrestha (1990 - 2080 BS) Who Made a Mark in Nepal Bhasa Music and Singing

 Rabin Man Shakya

 

(From left to right: Juju Bhai, late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha, Dr Rabin Man Shakya, Prof Dr Sushil Bajracharya at a program held by Mettagaar  at Hotel Yellow Pagoda, Kathmandu in 2017.)

(Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha singing a Bhajan at the program in Hotel Yellow Pagoda to felicitate centenarian Satya Mohan Joshi and others in 2017)

Portland, Jan 15 (Nepal Oregon News): Dyo Yata Sinha Swan, Maya Re Ratna Ji Nan Chanke Maya, Yo Jita Na Desh Yo and hundreds of other Nepal Bhasa songs were immortalized by this singer. Bhrigu Ram Shrestha who was battling against cancer died at Bir Hospital, Kathmandu on Sunday, Jan 14, 2024. Late Shrestha was 91.

Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was born in the month of Kartik, 1990 BS to father Asha Ram Shrestha and mother Sanu Nani Shrestha at Teoda Tole in Kathmandu. Inspired by his father, late Shrestha started singing at the age of 7-8.

Many of his Nepal Bhasa songs were broadcast in "Jeevan Daboo" a Nepal Bhasa program in the Radio Nepal. But when "Jeevan Daboo" was unceremoniously scrapped by the Radio Nepal and all other democratic and political activities were banned by the Panchayat system, it was late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha who thundered against the authoritarian and brutal political system with his famous Nepal Bhasa song "Yo Jita Na Desh Yo, Tar Jin Mankha Jigu Desh Go'

Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was very actively associated with various Gyan Mala Bhajan groups in Kathmandu. In fact, late Shrestha had vocalized  a number of Gyan Mala Bhajan songs as well.

Late Shrestha appeared in cameo roles in historical Nepali motion pictures "Maitighar" and "Hijo Aaj Bholi". He was also cast in historical Nepal Bhasa movies "Silu" and "Rajamati". Silu's main actress was late Nabeena Shrestha who was late Bhriguram's daughter.

A number of gramophone records, compact cassettes and audio CDs consisting of late Shrestha's songs were launched during his lifetime. Nepal Bhasa audio CD "Ilan Pijwogu Sa" was one of the important CDs of late Bhrigu Ram. The lyrics for songs in this CD were written by Durga Lal Shrestha, Bhrigu Ram Shrestha and Bishnu Hari Paradesi where as music for the songs were provided by Narayan Gopal, Siddhi Ratna Sthapit, Bhrigu Ram Shrestha, Dwarika Lal Joshi and Darshan Das Shrestha.

Also, very few people remember  that late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was actively associated with the then Nepal Soviet Cultural Association in Kathmandu. In fact, he was the cultural in-charge at the Association. Late Shrestha visited the USSR in 1978 AD at the friendly invitation of Moscow-based Soviet Nepal Friendship Society.

Meanwhile, on behalf of Nepal Russia Friendship and Cultural Association, its general secretary Swaraj Shakya has paid tributes to late Shrestha and has extended heartfelt condolences.

Nepal Oregon News from Portland, USA is deeply saddened by the demise of Jana Gayak Bhrigu Ram Shrestha. In the death of respected Shrestha, the nation in general and Newar people in particular have lost a luminary and a shining star in the constellation of Nepal Bhasa musicians and singers.

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Newah journalist in USA)