Prajwal Vajracharya's Visit Symbolizes Promotion of Newar Buddhism and Charya Dance in Hong Kong

Various Programs and Events Organized in Hong Kong during the Visit

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, July 28 (Nepal Oregon News): Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and senior charya dance teacher, was in Hong Kong visit from July 16-27, 2026 for promoting and enhancing Charya Nritya dances.

A program of Vajra dance performances was organized at the Kuan Yin Lecture Hall (Western Monastery) of Hong Kong Polytechnic University on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

 The event, which was attended by 80 people, was hosted by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) and supported by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Buddhist Society.

According to Dr Tina Ho of HKBSA, before the performances, there was a small fire nearby, when the Vajra dance performers were doing makeup.

"Luckily the fire was extinguished and we started the performances on time", Dr Tina Ho said.

The Vajra dance program included Refuge Prayer, Sixteen Offering Goddess Dances, Pancha Tara, Amoghasiddhi and Aryatara, Vajravarahi, Vajrasattva, Padmanateshvara and Mahavairochana.

Refuge Prayer and Sixteen Offering Goddess dances were performed by Fionna, Mei Mei, Joanna and Pamela.

After that, Pancha Tara Vajra dance was presented by Shira Chan, Wing Yee Lui, Sin Ying Leung, Patty Chan and Lok Yee. 

Then, Amoghasiddhi and Aryatara Vajra dance was offered by Prajwal Vajracharya and Dr Tina Ho. Vajravarahi Vajra dance was featured by Saldon Wu. Likewise, Vajrasattva Vajra dance was rendered by Dickon Kong.

Similarly, Padmanateshvara Vajra dance was showcased by Dr Eliza Lau. Finally, Mahavairochana charya dance was presented by teacher Prajwal Vajracharya.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, July 19, an all-day workshop on Ali and Kali (vowels and consonants) was  organized at Tung Lin Kok Yuen Wang Fat Ching She. The workshop in Hong Kong was attended by 29 people.

Conducting the all-day workshop, Prajwal Guruji threw light on Ali and Kali in Newar Buddhism, and also explained how to practice yogic way elucidating meaning of each vowel and consonant and how to use them in practical life.

 During the workshop, Prajwal Guruji shed light on Ali-Kali, a sacred syllabary representing the foundational, energetic, linguistic and philosophical structure of Tantric practices.

Underscoring the relevance of the unique Sanskrit-based Vajrayana tradition of the Kathmandu valley, the Guruji said:"Ali refers to the Sanskrit vowels, whereas Kali means Sanskrit consonants."

Ali (vowels) represent Pragya, the feminine principle, and primordial state of Sunyata, clarified the Guruji adding:"Kali (consonants) represent Upaya, the masculine principle and compassionate action or phenomenal manifestation."

The Guruji provided detailed and comprehensive details about Ali and Kali to the Hong Kong participants.

Likewise, on Monday evening, July 20, a Dharma talk on Dakinis was held in Hong Kong.

 Addressing the gathering, Prajwal Guruji said:"Based on a 1000-year old Newar Buddhist tradition in Nepal, a Dakini is a sacred female spirit, deity, or enlightened energy who represents wisdom, spiritual transformation and the dynamic feminine principle." 

The talk on Dakinis focused on Dakinis as the energetic beings in female form, evocative of energy in space."

On Tuesday, July 21, an afternoon visit to Shingon Buddhist temple, the Hong Kong Mantra School for Lay Buddhists was organized for Guriji Prajwal Vajracharya. Refuge and Sixteen Offering Goddess Dance were presented on the occasion. The event was attended by 24 people.

On Tuesday, July 21, an evening workshop 'Praise to Avalokiteshvara Sloka' was held at Utpala Meditation Center in Hong Kong.

The Guruji, during the workshop, explained the meaning of Sanskrit sloka: lokeswaram shilam shantam amogha guna sagaram/ amitabham kritam mauli namami amogha pasanam//.

Delivering the Dharma talk, Prajwal Guruji stressed the significance and relevance of Lokeshvara in the Buddhist world.

Avalokiteshvara is the embodiment of universal compassion and has the softest, gentlest and most fluid of dances represented in the Charya nritya tradition, he said.

The 35th generation Vajrayana priest from Nepal explained the Hong Kong participants about Avalokiteshvara's attributes, energy, form, charya giti, gestures, movements and Nritya from the Newar Buddhist dance tradition.

This is an ancient form of deity yoga meditation for physical transformation, refinemment of emotions and spiritual awareness, the Guruji said.

Moreover, a Dharma talk on Vajradhatu and Dharmadhatu was also hosted by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association on Wednesday, July 22 at Utpala Meditation Center. Prajwal Guruji explained the importance of Dharmadhatu and Vajradhatu saying that they were there in the history even before the advent of the Buddha. Prajwal Guruji underscored the significance and relevance of Vajradhatu and Dharmadhatu even for today.

Dharmadhatu is a Sanskrit term meaning the realm of truth, sphere of phenomena or dimension of all thing, said the Guruji and added:" Vajradhatu means diamond realm or thunderbolt sphere in Sanskrit, representing ultimate reality, unchanging wisdom and the indestructible nature of enlightenment in Tantric Buddhism."

Prajwal Guruji also mentioned that Dharmadhatu and Vajradhatu are mentioned in Naamsangiti. Naamsangiti was preached by Shakya Muni Buddha for his disciple Vajrapani and his wrathful retinue in order to lead them into Buddhahood, the Guruji went on daying. Before the advent of scientific discoveries, there were mention of five oceans and other seas in the ancient Sutras, the Guruji stated.

Prajwal Guruji also examined the dimensions ans realities of Vajradhatu rituals in Nepal as it is lived and practiced in Newar Buddhist traditions.

The Guruji gave detailed accounts of Dharmadhatu and Vajradhatu, saying that there are 220 deities in the Dharmadhatu Mandala and 53 deities in Vajradhatu Mandala. Prajwal Guruji also discussed in detail about Bhadrakalpa Bodhisattvas and Maha Bodhisattvsas. The Guruji also showed rare slides to explain his teachings. 

Furthermore, an empowerment (Dikchha) and teaching on deity Padmanateshvara was organized at Utpala Meditation Center on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The teaching was attended by 21 participants.

The teaching and empowerment was conducted by Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Newar Vajrayana Buddhist priest. It is to be noted that for the practice and Sadhana of Padmanateshvara, an initiation or empowerment (Dikkchha) is always required.

Padmanateshvara (Nasa Dyo) is the deity who represents performance arts, the yidam of Charya Nritya - the Lord dancing on Lotus, Prajwal Guruji told the Hong Kong participants.

Padmanateshvara's (who possesses ten hands) initial gestures 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 Guruji said.

The initiation into Padmanateshvara is to incarnate the wisdom by dancing, and by dancing, share it with all, said Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya.

During the teaching, Prajwal Guruji also conducted the fundamental movements and dance teaching. Charya Nritya teacher Prajwal demonstrated hand and finger Mudra and showed different steps of the dance 'Padmanateshvara'. The teaching offered a wide spectrum in terms of practical and theoretical aspects of learning about the Padmanateshvara charya nritya.

A three-day Mahavairochana Charya Dance retreat (July24-26) was organized at the Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association Sha Tin Center/ShareLife Holistic Institute. The retreat was participated by 12 Hong Kong Sangha members.

Saying that Mahavairochana is an eternal cosmic presence whose body, speech and mind are the universe itself, Prajwal Guruji stated:"Mahavairochana Buddha is considered as the Supreme Buddha among the five Dhyani Buddhas. This primordial Buddha represents the wisdom of Sunyata or essence of the Dharma realm meditation mudra." 

Five Dhyani Buddhas are drawn together in a Mandala and Vairochana Buddha is in the center of the Mandala, the Guruji informed the Hong Kong participants.

The Guruji underlined:"Vairochana Buddha statues are mostly depicted  in white color. If anybody meditates chanting mantra on Vairochana Buddha, it helps to vanquish ignorance."

While performing Mahavairochana charya nritya, the dancer utilizes visualization, hand gestures (Mudra) and yogic postures to manifest the internal qualities of Mahavairochana, the Guruji added.

He said:"Mahavairochana charya nritya refers to a specific variation of charya nritya, a sacred, ritualistic Vajrayana Buddhist dance tradition belonging to the Newar Buddhist community of the Kathmandu valley."

The Guruji went on saying:"In this Charya nritya, the performer enters a deep meditative state to physically embody Mahavairochana who is the central cosmic deity among the Pancha Buddhas who represent the transformation of ignorance into the all-encompassing wisdom of reality."

The performer wears traditional crowns and symbolic ornaments representing the six paramitas. Mahavairochana is always depicted in white costumes, he reiterated.

The retreat was an opportunity for the Hong Kong participants to acquire comprehensive and detailed knowledge about Mahavairochana. During the retreat, Prajwal Guruji explained the Sanskrit meaning of Mahavairochana charya giti. 

Prajwal Guruji performed Mahavairochana charya dance at the end of the retreat. He also answered to questions of the participants.

According to Dr Tina Ho, during the retreat "we met typhoon signal No 8 & 9. So we left the site at 5 pm on second day but joined againon 3rd day afternoon to continue the class."

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Four Week-long Charya Nritya Transcendent Classes 'Praise of the Ancient' Wraps Up

Portland, July 13 (Nepal Oregon News): A four-week long Charya Nrtya transcendent teaching 'Praise of the Ancient' (once every Sunday - June 14 to July12) was wrapped up on Sunday, July 12, 2026. The practical and theoretical classes were delivered by senior charya pedagogue Prajwal Vajracharya.

Every week, the teaching started with the chanting offered to Padmanateshvara followed by Refuge and Sixteen Offering Goddess dances.

The four-week long Charya teaching was an opportunity that enabled participants to understand transformation of the body and awakening the mind with the 35th generation Tantric Buddhist priest from Nepal.

According to Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest, Charya Nritya is a sacred, thousand-year old Newar Buddhist dance tradition from Nepal that combines physical movement, mudras (sacred hand gestures), and mantras as a form of moving meditation and spiritual discipline.

Prajwal Guruji maintained that Charya Nrityas have been practiced for centuries by Newar Vajracharya and Shakya priests in the Kathmandu valley. The Guruji added:"Charya Nritya integrates body, speech and mind through yoga postures, visualization, and devotional songs (Charya giti).

The four-month teaching focused on Charya Nritya of various Buddhist deities: Avalokiteshvara charya dance (Sloka), Aryatara charya dance (sloka), Manjushree charya dance (sloka) and Pragyaparamita charya dance (sloka), said the Guruji adding:"These charya dances embody peaceful deities to cultivate inner wisdom and compassion."

Throwing light onthe objectives of the four-week course, Prajwal Guruji said:"The purpose of the course was to provide a basic introduction with the yogic songs (charya giti slokas) and  the accompanying sacred ritual dances (slokas) of Avalokiteshvara, Aryatara, Manjushree and Pragyaparamita.

Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"The Charya movements physically manifest the compassionate and peaceful attributes of Buddhist deities Avalokiteshvara, Aryatara, Manjushree and Pragyaparamita.

Prajwal Guruji, who is also chief pujari at the Vihara, during the teaching explained the meaning of Sanskrit slokas of Avalokiteshvara, Aryatara, Manjushree and Pragyaparamita.

During the four-week course, the participants learned lyrics of the slokas of Avalokiteshvara, Aryatara, Manjushree and Pragyaparamita.

Also, during the teaching, Guru Prajwal also explained the meaning of movements, steps and Mudras of various deities' dannces. How to liberate yourself, how to feel transformation, the ways to enlightenment through Charya tradition were  the leitmotif of Guruji's four week  long discourse.

In brief, the launch of the four week-long Charya Nritya transcendent classes 'Praise of the Ancient' marked a significant milestone in making this sacred, moving meditation accessble to global practitioners.

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Admissions Open for BA Studies in Nepal Bhasa at RR Campus in Kathmandu

Portland, July 31 (Nepal Oregon News): Good news. Admissions have opened for Bachelors Level studies in Nepal Bhasa at the Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus in Kathmanndu.

Bachelor of Arts in Nepal Bhasa (BA in Nepal Bhasa) of Tribhuvan University is a four-year undergraduate program which focuses on the study of Nepal Bhasa, its linguistics and literary heritage and its cultural significance.

The course integrates theoretical and practical knowledge to preserve and promote Nepal Bhasa, equipping students with skills for academic and professional roles in language preservation, research and education.

Nepal Bhasa studies at Tribhuvan University are offered primarily at Patan Multiple Campus (PMC), Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus (RR Campus) and Bishwa Bhasa Campus (Campus of International Languages).

Patan Multiple Campus and RR Campus provide undergraduate and postgraduate degrees focused on the language, literature and culture of the Newah community, whereas Bishwa Bhasa Campus offers basic-to-advanced certificate courses in Nepal Bhasa.

It is to be noted that long-time resident of Portland,  USA Daya Shakya, who is also the patron of World Newah Organization, is one of the first few people who earned Masters Degree in Nepal Bhasa in 1987 from Patan Multiple Campus before the restoration of democracy in Nepal.

Chancellor of Nepal Bhasa Academy Malla K Sundar is the first MA degree holder in Nepal Bhasa by writing a dissertation paper.

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Nepal's Madhesh in Turmoil, AsThree Killed in Terai Unrest

 Portland, July 31 (Nepal Oregon News): At least three people have been killed and several others injured in a severe wave of communal unrest sweeping across southern Nepal's Terai-Madhesh region, according to various media sources.

The violence, which erupted following a dispute over loud music and religious flags during a Hindu procession, has forced authorities to deploy the Nepal Army and impose indefinite curfews across multiple districts in Terai-Madhesh region.

Clashes initially broke out in the Sunsari district near the Indian border and rapidly spilled over into neighboring border commercial corridors.

Angry mobs have engaged in arson and vandalism, targeting government offices, shopping malls, police posts and vehicles.

In the latest Sunsari tension, the intelligence structure failed to deliver any advance warning of widespread communal unrest. Home Minister Sudan Gurung recently confirmed that no state agency provided actionable intelligence ahead of the clash in Sunsari, per The Kathmandu Post.

Nepal's newly elected Prime Minister Balen Shah broke his silence to deliver his first major address to the nation, appealing for calm, national unity and communal harmony.

As 'The Rising Nepal' reported:"In his address to the nation following the recent development in Madhes, Prime Minister Shah urged citizens, civil society, religious communities, community leaders, political parties and media outlets to work together to maintain peace and social harmony."

Prime Minister Balen Shah has promised a completely fair and transparent judicial investigation to bring perpetrators to justice.

Nepal Oregon News from Portland, USA extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and believes that sincere and honest steps would be implemented by the Balen government to stop any kind of communal violence in future.

Nepa Chhen, a Nepali nonprofit in Portland, Organizes FIFA World Cup Watch Party

Spain Defeats Argentina 1-0, Wins 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, July 20, (Nepal Oregon News): A community level FIFA World Cup Final Watch Party was organized by Nepa Chhen, a Nepalese nonprofit in Portland, USA on Saturday 19, 2026.

35 people attended the Nepali community watch party at Nekusingh Memorial Theater, Hollywood Taekwondo School, featuring a huge screen for the attendees. Among them were: Master Karen Blackledge, general secretary of IOFTC organization, Daya Shakya, patron of World Newah Organization and Diwakar Maharjan, a senior Taekwondo guru and so on.

A Nepali style potluck lunch including popcorn and beer were served to the community participants during the watch party.

Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the game-winning goal in the 106th minute of the match, securing Spain's second World Cup title in their history.

The FIFA World Cup final championship match was organized at MetLife Stadium (designated as New York New Jersey stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

For the first time in FIFA tournament history, the final featured a Super Bowl style half time show curated by Chris Martin, featuring star-studded performances from Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber.

Meanwhile, prior to the FIFA match show on the huge screen, a board meeting of Nepa Chhen was also held the same day at the Hollywood Taekwondo School in Portland under the chairmanship of its president Daya Shakya.

During the meeting, discussions were zeroed in  on Nepa Chhen's bylaws, upcoming events and financial updates.

Additionally, during the Nepa Chhen's meeting, under the membership drive, a new membership of Kritish Rajbhandari, a professor at Reeds College in Portland was also confirmed, while emphasis was  furthermore laid on fund-raising.

According to Nepa Chhen prez Daya Shakya, $900. 00 was collected as part of the membership fees and fund raising drive during the meeting. 

(Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in USA, is vice president of Nepa Chhen, a Nepali nonprofit in America).

  

Tantra is an Ancient Asian Spiritual Philosophy, Says Prajwal Vajracharya

 

Zoom Talk on Four Tantras in Newar Buddhism Hosted by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, June 13 (Nepal Oregon News): An online teaching program on "Talk on Four Tantras in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism" was organized on Friday, June 12, 2026. The remotely held event which was attended by 20 zoom participants was hosted by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association in collaboration with the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. Dr Miranda Shaw, Sadananda Yogi, Meadow Lisa Wong and Dr Tina Ho were among the virtual participants of the event.

The talk on four tantras was delivered by Prajwal Vajracharya who is a 35th generation Tantric Buddhist priest from Nepal and a ritual master of the Charya Nritya dance tradition and other ritual forms.

Addressing the online teaching event, Prajwal Guruji said:"Tantra is an ancient Asian spiritual philosophy and system of practices aimed at expanding consciousness and achieving spiritual liberation."

The co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA added:"Rooted in Sanskrit, it translates to -- to weave or instrument to expand -- and encompasses meditation, yoga, ritual breath work, and the celebration of the physical body as sacred."

Prajwal Guruji, a ritual practitioner of Mandalas, Tantra, Mantra, and Charya Nritya went on saying:"In Buddhist philosophy, the four Tantras -- Kriya Tantra, Charya Tantra, Yoga Tantra and Anuttarayoga Tantra -- refer to the structural categorization of esoteric literature practice path."

Each one represents a complete vehicle to enlightenment using different psycho-physical methodologies, said the Guruji.

Throwing light on Kriya Tantra (action), the head priest at the Portland's Newar Buddhist temple, said this is the ritual deity practice,  the bliss of curing each other.

The Guruji maintained that external practices are the first of the lower tantra classes in Vajrayana Buddhism, focusing   heavily on external ritual acts, physical purity and structural deity devotion.

Kriya Tantra is the root tantra, the foundation tantra and is ritualized based on  Vasudharnama and Pancha Raksha Dharani, the Guruji stated.

Similarly, speaking about Charya Tantra (performance), he said that this is a behavioral deity practice, the bliss of smiling at each other. 

It balances external ritual actions equally with internal meditative absorption, the Guruji explained. 

Also known as Ubhaya Tantra (dual tantra), it acts as a bridge between simpler ritual actions and the advanced visualizations. The Guruji further shared that this tantra is ritualized based on Mahavairochana Tantra.

Likewise, highlighting on Yoga Tantra (union), Prajwal Guruji said:"It shifts heavily inward, focusing on Mudras, complex internal visualizations, and recognizing one's own Buddha nature.

Yoga Tantra is an integrated deity practice, the bliss of hugging each other, the Guruji further said.

The Guruji made it clear that Yoga Tantra is practiced with Yogavyash based on Tantra Sangraha and Sarba Parishodhana Tantra.

Prajwal Guruji mentioned that as far as Anuttarayoga (highest yoga) is concerned, this one is practiced based on Chakra Sambhara Tantra, He Vajra Tantra, Chatuspith Tantra, Kala Chakra Tantra etc.

He asserted that Anuttarayoga is the unexcelled peak practice, transforming subtle inner channels, winds and drops into instant awakening. 

Highest Yoga Tantra empowerment is a profound, advanced initiation in Vajrayana Buddhism, the Guruji said of Anuttarayoga.

Anuttarayoga grants permission to practice deity yoga -- such as -- meditations on Heruka, Vajrayogini or Yamantaka -- to quickly transform the mind and attain enlightenment, the Guruji concluded.

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

 

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Four-week Long Charya Nritya Transcendent Classes 'Praise of the Ancient' Kicks Off

Portland, June 15 (Nepal Oregon News): A four-week long Charya Nritya transcendent classes 'Praise of the Ancient' (once a week every Sunday June 14- July 12) kicked off on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. The practical as well as theoretical classes were conducted by Charya teacher Prajwal Vajracharya.

Prajwal Vajracharya, one of the seniormost  Charya Nritya Gurus in the world, said that the participants will have an opportunity to experience the eternal vibration of sacred Sanskrit chants brought to life through the sacred geometry of Newar Buddhist dance.

Prajwal Guruji shared that this unique 'praise' embodies timeless spiritual devotion, transforming ancient verses into a living breathing meditation.

The Guruji expressed the view that based on the ancient tradition of Newar Buddhism, these sessions offer a rare opportunity to learn the sacred art of Charya Nritya.

Through this course, the Guruji viewed that the participants will learn to embody the enlightened energies of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, using the physical body to express deep spiritual realization.

Prajwal Guruji said the course participants will have an opportunity to learn Charya nritya slokas on Avalokiteshvara, Arya Tara, Manjushree and Pragya Paramita.

In these classes, participants will learn to channel cosmic truths through precise Mudra hand gestures and divine physical movements, transforming dance into a powerful, active Sadhana (spiritual practice), the noted Charya pedagogue said.

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Alexandra and Nischal Mali's Wedding Solemnized

Portland, June 26 (Nepal Oregon News):  Vivaha (Sanskrit) and Ihipa (Nepal Bhasa) are words used for the word 'marriage' or wedding.

The wedding ceremony is the most significant lifecycle ritual in Newar tradition, both a cultural and religious celebration, according to priest Prajwal Vajracharya of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA.

The marriage of Alexandra and Nischal Mali was solemnized by Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th-generation Vajrayana priest and co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

The wedding ceremony took place at the residence of Nischal's parents Raju and Minu Mali in Beaverton, Oregon on Friday, June 26, 2026. Nischal  and Alexandra have made the decision to hold each other's hand and share their future together as husband and wife. In order to support their decision and their lives together, Nischal's relatives came to Portland from Nepal, the UK and other states of the USA. There were more than 100 guests at the religious wedding ceremony.

First of all, the religious wedding ceremony kicked off with the Sthapana Puja in which priest Prajwal Guruji not only offered ritual materials and objects but he also purified them. Also, he purified his own body, mind and speech.

Wearing a red sari embroidered with gold thread and dotted sequins, bride Alexandra and appropriately attired groom Nischal sat across from priest Prajwal Guruji, as he then guided them, as well, through the ancient words and movements of the Gurumandala Puja, in symbolic purification of their bodies, minds and speech.

Nepalese wedding rituals are unique and unprecedented in its culture and traditions. Jwola Nhaykan - Sinha Mu was interesting aspect of  the wedding ceremony in which Prajwal Guruji reflected  the good energy created during the ritual to bride Alexandra and groom Nischal.

Kisli was prepared with raw rice, coins and betel nuts, while Alexandra and Nischal prayed for good health and long life together. Tika consisting of  yogurt, rice and vermillion powder was prepared by Guruji. Then, Guruji gave a blessing to the bride and groom. Next, Swayambar was the most important component of the wedding ritual in which the bride circled the groom and placed garland over his head and vice versa. Prajwal Guruji says that the circling binds their energies together.

After that, the bride and the groom exchanged wedding rings. As an essential ritual, the groom then put Abir (vermillion powder) on the bride's head.  According  to Prajwal Guruji, red color symbolizes a promise as deep as bloom. This ritual was followed by Kanya Daan.

Later, there was Gwaya Sayeke ritual (sharing betel nuts) in which groom's family welcomed the bride and introduced their family for life-long relationship.

Thereupon, during the Dhau Sagan ritual, priest Prajwal Guruji gave blessings for happiness, prosperity and joy to the bride, groom and all family members.

At the same time, under Shiffala Lwakegu ritual, the heads of bride and groom were banged together, and groom's mother Minu Mali poured raw rice, flowers and fruits over their heads.

The wedding rituals concluded with Thayabhu feast and Khen Sagan in which wine, fish and eggs were offered to the bride, groom and other family members.

A lavish wedding party was organized the next day on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Sheraton Hotel on the Airport Way. 

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Senior Age 'Janko' and Ihi Ceremony Held in Victoria, Canada

Portland, June 4, (Nepal Oregon News): A senior age 'Janko' religious ceremony of Bindra Shakya was held in Victoria, Canada. Bindra Shakya is the mother of Yogendra Shakya, Rajendra Shakya and Mallika Shakya living in Canada.

Janko related rituals, such as, Homa Puja, Naag Puja, Kalash Puja and Bali Puja were ritualized by senior priest Prajwal Vajracharya. Senior 'Janko' or Bhimratharohan is an important lifecycle ritual in Newar Buddhism and Newar culture.

According to Prajwal Guruji, when a man or a woman turns 77years, 7 months, 7 days and 7 hours, there is a special ceremony to perform. The Janko observance calls on the Goddess of Long Life - Usnisavijaya - to purify Karma and bestow the blessing of good health and long life span.

Meanwhile, Ihi ceremony of Ira Gurung was also performed by Prajwal Guruji immediately after the Janko ceremony in Victoria, Canada. Ira Gurung is the daughter of Iroj Gurung and Mallika Shakya.

The word 'Ihi' is the short form of Ihipa which means wedding. Ihi ritual is a unique tradition in Newar culture. Also, Ihi like Bara Tayagu is an important lifecycle ritual for Newah girls. Girls from Newah community in Nepal are married thrice in their life time. The first ceremony is called Ihi where dedication is committed to the Bel fruit (wood apple) by the young pre-adolescent girls. Second one is Bara Tayagu ceremony and the third one is the real and actual marriage.

During the Ihi event, Ihi girl was was prepared like a little bride dressed in a fancy red and golden blouse,  sari and shawl.

Puja Bha Dema consisting of Sinha, Swan, Jaki, Baji Ita, Goja, Dhup etc were carefully prepared for the ceremony. Auspicious Vajra and sacred Bell were used during the puja by Prajwal Guruji. Sukunda lamp was also lit. After Jwala Nhayakan worshipping and Sinha Mu praying, Prajwal Guruji gave a dab of Sinha to Ihi girl Ira  and others who were present at the ceremony.

Buddha Laxmi Shakya, Pushpa Tulachan and Ami Laxmi Shakya travelled from the US to take part at the Janko and Ihi ceremonies in Victoria, Canada. 

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Garbha Shodhana Puja Performed

Portland, June 29 (Nepal Oregon News): A Garbha Shodhana Puja for Teya Vajracharya was performed at the temple of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Monday, June 29, 2026, the Full Moon day. Teya's second pregnancy is running onto 4th month.

Garbha Shodhana Puja is a spiritual and religious practice designed to bless expecting mother and her baby with health, purity and intelligence.

The purpose of Garbha Shodhana Puja is to purify the body of expecting mother. This Puja is performed to cleanse physical, energetic and mental toxins from the parents before welcoming a new soul. Gurumandala Puja and other rituals were performed by Prajwal Guruji on the occasion.

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Sira Daan Ritual Offered at Vihara on 45th Day of Passing of Maa Padma Laxmi Karanjit

Portland, June 26 (Nepal Oregon News): A Sira Daan ritual was offered at the temple of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Friday, June 26, 2026 on the 45th day of passing of Maa Padma Laxmi Karanjit. 

Sankalpa Puja was performed during the Sira Daan ritual. Fruits, raw rice, ginger, salt, turmeric, black lentils and beaten rice etc were offered to priest Prajwal Vajracharya by deceased's son Pramod Karanjit, daughter-in-law Sharmila Karanjit and daughter Bijaya Maharjan.

The Sira Daan is a Sanskrit word in which Sira means a pure mixture of staple raw foods and Daan refers to charity, donation or giving.

Mourning family members give a tray of these pure foods and new clothes to a Vajracharya priest. The ritual is usually performed on auspicious milestones after a loved one passes away, such as, the 45th day of mourning.

Maa Padma Laxmi Karanjit, who has been battling the age-related disease for last couple of years, passed away on May 13, 2026.

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Religious Tributes Paid to Ancestors of Raju and Minu Mali

Portland, June 20 (Nepal Oregon News): Ancestors of the Mali family were remembered and religious tributes were paid to them prior to the wedding of Nischal Mali amidst a ritual performance ahead of the wedding of Nischal Mali, son of Raju and Minu Mali.

The purification puja was performed by priest Prajwal Vajracharya at the residence of Raju Mali in Beaverton, Oregon.

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Regular Activities Continue

In June, as usual and as always, Naamsangiti chanting was organized on  zoom on the full moon day. 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. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed every Friday morning.

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Nepalese Community Celebrates Independence Day in Portland

Portland, July 5, (Nepal Oregon News): A Nepalese community party was organized by community leaders and entrepreneurs Keshab Maharjan and Gyani Maharjan at their residence in Portland to celebrate Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July.

Fourth of July is a national holiday in the United States commemorating the formal adoption of the Declaration of Independence  on July, 1776.

The historic document announced the 13 original American colonies' separation from the British Empire, marking the official birth of the United States of America.

This year's celebration carries monumental significance as the nation marked its 250th anniversary on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

The gala party  (cuisines served were mostly Newah-style food),  which was organized to mark the Fourth of July, was attended by about 100 Nepalese and American guests. Among them were former senior vice president and patron of World Newah Organization Daya Shakya and senior taekwondo guru Diwakar Maharjan.

Nepal Oregon News extends sincere gratitude to senior Newah entrepreneurs Keshab Maharjan and Gyani Maharjan  for hosting the Independence Day community party at their residence.  

Mobile Passport and Consular Service Camp Held in Hillsboro and Cornelius, Oregon for Nepalese living in NW America

120 Nepalese from Oregon, Washington and Idaho Benefit from the Mobile Passport Service Camp

Rabin Man Shakya

(Photos by: Rabin Man Shakya)

Portland, June 8 (Nepal Oregon News): A mobile passport and consular service camp was held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Hillsboro Civic Center in Hillsboro, Oregon.

The mobile passport and consular service camp was organized by Consulate General of Nepal in San Francisco in collaboration with Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO). 

Consul General of Nepal in San Francisco Lakshuman Khanal with his team members - Devdoot Dhakal (consul) and Rishi Acharya (Deputy Consul) were in Portland for providing mobile passport and consular services. 

Consul General Khanal's trip was his second visit to Portland metro area. He visited  Oregon recently in the month of April to join the event dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) and to attend an interaction with the NRNA (Non-Resident Nepali Association) members of Oregon State chapter, USA.

The mobile camp provided Nepali passport renewal and other consular services not only to the Nepalese community members in greater Portland metro area, but to the Nepalese people living in other parts of Oregon, such as, Corvallis and Medford.

According to president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Ekraj Dahal, Nepalese people all the way from the states of Washington and Idaho had come to Portland to benefit from the services of the mobile passport camp.

The event went super smoothly and we received overwhelming positive responses from the people who got the passport renewal services, Dahal said.

NAO chief Dahal informed Nepal Oregon News that due to overwhelming demand, the Consulate General of Nepal in San Francisco had extended the Oregon Passport and Consular Mobile camp by one additional day.

The second day of passport service was held at Cornelius Public Library in Cornelius, Oregon, he added.

About 100 Nepalese benefitted from the passport renewal services at Hillsboro Civic Center on the first day, while 20 people were able to renew Nepali passports on the second day at Cornelius Public Library, Dahal went on saying. Three NRN Identity Cards  were also issued to the American citizens of Nepalese origin.

Meanwhile, a meeting between Consular General of Nepal in San Francisco Lakshuman Khanal and Mayor of City of Cornelius Jeffrey C. Dalin, City Manager Peter Brandon was held at  City Hall office in Cornelius, Oregon.

As maintained by Bharat Banskota, former president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO), the meeting was mainly focused on establishing sister city relationship between Cornelius and one of the most suitable cities in Nepal. 

Consul General Khanal discussed ways of promoting relations and engagements at peoples' and communities level.  The meeting was facilitated by Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO).

It is to be noted that the first mobile (MRP) passport services were provided to the Nepalese Portlanders in 2015 at a program held at the initiative of NRNA - USA - Oregon Chapter at the Hollywood Taekwondo School in Portland.

Deputy Chief of the Mission at the Nepalese Embassy in Washington DC Rishi Ram Ghimire and embassy staff Deepak Sharma were in Portland at that time in 2015 for providing the MRP passport renewal services.

   

(Consul General Lakshuman Khanal providing passport services during the Consular Service Camp).

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in USA)