Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association Organizes Year of Wisdom and Compassion Celebration Program

'Charya Nritya is a Unique Newar Buddhist Tradition'

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Jan 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A Wisdom and Compassion Happy New Year Celebration program was organized by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) in collaboration with Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Friday, Jan 30, 2026. 

The Year of Wisdom and Compassion Celebration program consisted of events like presentations, dances, meditations, Bhajans and Sadhana etc.

The program kicked off with the chanting of Saptabidhana Puja -- Seven Limb Prayer -- by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, Adam Bidema together with other participants at Vihara and on the zoom.

On the occasion, Refuge dance was performed by Prajwal Guruji and Adam Bidema together with other participants at the Vihara and on the zoom.

Refuge dance is a performance of Buddha Bandana Dance through Charya Nritya. Buddhist practitioners take refuge daily in the Buddha, the teacher, the Dharma, the teachings and the Sangha, the community. In Charya Nritya, a practitioner  takes refuge  through  embodiment  of these  'three jewels' -- the Buddha as the teacher of meditation, Shakya Muni Buddha; the Dharma teachings as Manjushree wielding his wisdom sword and text, the Sangha as the supportive community in the form of lord of compassion.

Making a presentation, Dr Tina Ho of the Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) said:"Charya Nritya is a unique Newar  Buddhist tradition that teaches us how to use the physical body to awaken  the mind through the unification of movement, visualization and awareness."

A Sixteen Offering Goddess dance was presented on-line by the members of the Hong Kong Sangha: Thomas Tse, Sue Cheung, Diana Cheung, Fiona Yiu and Mei Mei Suen.

The Sixteen Offering Goddess dance, 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, Mahamayuri Mudra Zen Dance was offered by Shira Chan on the zoom. Mahamayuri is a revered Bodhisattva and wisdom king in Vajrayana Buddhism, known as a protective goddess, often called the Peacock Wisdom King. She symbolizes the power to eliminate poison, disease, and disaster often depicted as a benevolent, multi-armed figure riding a peacock.

Manjushree Mudra Zen dance was presented remotely on-line by Ada Ip, whereas Manjushree Vajra dance was displayed by Sanniti Leung, Dickon Kong, Nora Ng and Mary Lau. Manjushree, the lord of wisdom, holds a book and wields a sword to cut through ignorance. He is golden in color and speaks the universal language of all beings to aid them in understanding reality.

Likewise, Vajrasattva vajra dance was demonstrated by Dickon Kong. Vajrasattva is considered the essence 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.

Avalokiteshvara Vajra dance was rendered by Sanniti Leung. Avalokiteshvara is the revered  white Bodhisattva of universal compassion, a primary deity in the Newar Buddhist tradition. He embodies compassion in its most recognizable form, as gentleness, softness and kindness. Holding a blue lotus of purity in his left hand, Avlokiteshvara holds his right hand extended in generosity, endlessly dispensing blessings. He relieves sufferings and destroys sorrow. He travels universe, assisting sentient beings everywhere towards enlightenment

Finally, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya's presentation on Padmanateshvara aimed to throw light on relevance and significance of Padmanateshvara in Newar Buddhism. He said that Padmanateshvara is one of the manifestations of Avalokiteshvara

The Guruji went on saying:" Padmanateshvara is the source of artistic inspiration, joy, compassion and equanimity."   Padmanateshvara  is considered  to be the quintessence of the performing world in Nepal.   In Nepal, the  artistes, singers and dancers seek blessings from this deity, Prajwal Guruji informed the audience.

 The Guruji added:"Padmanateshvara is a significant deity in Newar Buddhism, specially associated  with the practice of Charya Nritya, which involves dancing and singing, as a path to liberation."

At the end of the program, Prajwal Guruji also performed  Padmanateshvara charya dance. The program at the Vihara was followed by a pot-luck dinner.

 

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Interaction Program with Dr Manik Bajracharya Held at Vihara

Portland, Jan 3 (Nepal Oregon News):  An interaction program on rituals, Dharma and Gurumandala Puja was organized on Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. Dr Manik Bajracharya and Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya were the keynote speakers.

On the occasion, a Refuge dance and Sixteen Offering Goddess dance (sodasha lasya) were performed by Prajwal Guruji, Ritu Bajracharya, Bunu Shrestha, Pepper Koscis, Joshua Proto, Adam Bidema and Anastasia Roderick.

Similarly, Vajrayogini charya dance was presented by Bunu Shrestha and Green Tara charya dance was offered by Ritu Bajracharya.

Charya Giti for Vajrayogini and Green Tara charya dances were vocalized by Joshua Proto.

The focus of the interaction program was on Nispannayogavali, Saptabidhan Puja, Mantras and Charya Nritya etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Manik Bajracharya said:"Given the fact that Nritya Mandala Mahavihara is the only one Newar Buddhist temple in the West, it has been preserving and sharing the traditions of Newar Buddhist practices, arts and culture in the USA."

Throwing light on Seven Limb Prayer, Dr Bajracharya stated:"Saptabidhana Puja is a foundational Vajrayana Buddhist practice used to purify negative Karma and accumulate spiritual merit."

Dr Bajracharya appreciated the fact that the Vihara has been conducting Seven Limb Prayer along with Dharani chanting and Prajnaparamita Hridayam Sutra once a week on zoom for last several years, and said:"Each limb serves as a specific antidote to a mental affliction: (1) Prostration (2) Offering (3) Confession (4) Rejoicing (5) Requesting the teachings (6) Beseeching the teachers to remain (7) Dedication.

Dr Bajracharya comprehensively dwelt on Newar Buddhism based on Sanskrit and informed the audience about Nepal Mandala saying:"Historically, the Kathmandu valley was referred to as Nepal Mandala, a sacred and organized space."

Likewise, zeroing in on relevance of Mantra, Dr Bajracharya said:"Mantras like the 100-syllable mantra of Vajrasattva are used specifically to wash away negative Karmic imprints and mental obscurations."

Underscoring the importance of Nispannayogavali, he said:"It is a seminal 11th century Sanskrit text on Buddhist iconography and structure of Mandalas. It contains descriptions of 26 Mandalas across 26 chapters."

Talking about sacredness versus profanity, Dr Bajracharya said:"In Vajrayana Buddhism, practitioners cultivate a sacred outlook, training to perceive every moment and every being as pure and sacred, rather than ordinary and profane."

Addressing the gathering, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, said:"The Vihara holds daily rituals and meditation practices to worship deities, impart blessings and foster spiritual growth."

The Guruji said:"Charya Nritya is a Buddhist ritual dance with a history going to more than 1,000 years. It is a meditational dance that tells stories of the inner qualities and awakening of Buddhist deities."

Prajwal Guruji added:"In Charya, singing is the Mantra, dancing is the Meditation. When you combine the two - dance and song - that becomes Hevajra Tantra, from where liberation comes."

The 35th-generation Vajrayana priest spoke in detail about the Gurumandala Puja. Saying that without Gurumandala Puja, there is no ritual, Prajwal Guruji added:"Gurumandala Puja is the most common ritual practiced in Nepal. At all significant moments in life, from birth to death, this important Newar Buddhist ritual is performed to remove obstacles and bring spiritual blessings."

Further, Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"Kaya (body) Vishodhane  Svaha, Vaka (speech) Vishodhane Svaha, Chitta (mind) Vishodhane Svaha are purification mantras  used in Gurumandala Puja to cleanse the self."

The interaction program was attended by 25 participants in person at the Vihara. At the end of the interaction, Dr Bajracharya and Prajwal Guruji answered the questions of the participants. The program was followed by a pot-luck dinner.

Dr Manik Bajracharya is a prominent Nepali scholar of Buddhist studies and South Asian history in Germany. He is recognized for his extensive work on pre-modern Nepal, focusing on legal history, religious rituals and digital heritage documentation.

Dr Bajracharya is a researcher and visiting scholar at the South Asia Institute, where he collaborates on various Indology and South Asian Studies projects.

He acts  as a supervisor for translations and a consultant, specializing in Newar terminology and the digital archiving of Nepalese heritage. He did the Ph D  in Japan focused on the Saptavidhanuttarapuja, a Newar Buddhist ritual.

Dr Bajracharya is a leading expert on the ritual practices and history of the Newar community in the Kathmandu valley. He has published significant work on the history of slavery in Nepal.

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Vihara Greets New Year 2026 with Purification Rituals

Portland, Jan 1 (Nepal Oregon News): The Nepalese Buddhist temple in Portland, USA - Nritya Mandala Mahavihara - bade farewell to 2025 and greeted the new year 2026 by performing Gurumandala Puja on Thursday, Jan 1, 2026.

The Gurumandala Puja, which was led by Prajwal Vajracharya, the chief pujari of the Vihara, focused on spiritual purification and community gathering to welcome the new year 2026.

The purification ritual was participated by 23 people in person while a dozen people took part on the zoom. The core of this celebration often involves Dhalan Danegu, an ancient Newar Buddhist ritual of purification.

Led by Prajwal Guruji, the ritual typically utilizes Mantras, Mudras, Mandalas and Meditation to cleanse the  mind and environment.

A Puja Sankalpa consisting of raw rice, beaten rice, dry fruits, red and yellow color powder, flowers, a little cow milk, three small incense sticks, six cotton wicks, three Gojas, three Jajankas, three coins etc were carefully and meticulously prepared for each participant who were seen sitting cross-legged inside the temple.

On the occasion, a Mandala - which is a circle or cosmic diagram for ritual of interior visualizations, representing various realms of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas and their cosmic energies - was also drawn for each participant. Likewise, three Gojas on the sand Mandalas were worshipped during the ritual. 

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.

On the occasion, participants were also given time for a short meditation. Similarly, a long pasuka (sacred thread) was used, spread and passed over to all the New Year purification ritual participants. It was an important component of the purification ritual. The purification ritual program concluded with a community dinner provided by the Vihara.

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Other Regular Activities

Monthly full moon Naamsangiti Chanting, weekly Dharani chanting (Tuesday evening), Sadhana practice, Buddhist Bhajan practice (Wednesday evening), and Charya Giti Singing practice (Friday morning) -- all were conducted on a regular basis at the Mahavihara and online.

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Non-profit 'Nepa Chhen' Greets New Year 2026 That Brings Joy to Nepali Community in Portland, USA

New Executive Committee Takes Charge, Daya Shakya Elected New President

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Dec 31  (Nepal Oregon News): A reception program was organized by Nepa Chhen -- a nonprofit which aims to build a Nepali community house in Portland  -- on Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025 at Nekusing Memorial Theater (Hollywood Taekwondo School) to mark the New Year 2025.

At the beginning of the program, octogenarian Newar lady Devi Laxmi Maharjan felicitated the new comers in the community by wrapping auspicious Khata on them.

Similarly, former president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Ganga Sharma felicitated Daya Shakya, Prajwal Vajracharya, Kritish Rajbhandari, Rabin Man Shakya and Mrinal Tamrakar by wrapping auspicious Khata on them. 

The event brought a lot of fun and joy to the members of the Nepali community in Portland. A number of people were seen dancing on the floor with joy.

On the occasion, a number of dances performed by cute little  girls attracted the attention of the audience.

The new year eve program which was attended by over 100  community members from different walks of life of the diaspora was conducted by Diwakar Maharjan, owner and director of Hollywood Taekwondo School.

Present on the occasion were officials and representatives of Nepa Chhen, Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO), Non-resident Nepali Association - Oregon Chapter and Nepal Oregon News.

During the reception program, a new executive committee of Nepa Chhen was announced, according to which Daya Shakya was elected as its new president.

Dr Rabin Man Shakya is designated as vice president while Pradip Byanjankar and Mrinal Tamrakar are named as secretary and treasurer respectively.

Likewise, Prajwal Vajracharya, Sagen Maharjan, Steve Maharjan and Alex Maharjan have been tapped as the new executive members of the Nepa Chhen.

Daya Shakya, newly elected chair, made a slide presentation on 'Past and Present Activities of Nepa Chhen'

Speaking during the slide presentation, Shakya said:"This new year celebration would provide inspiration to all community members to strengthen the unity in the social and cultural diversity."

"Community bond is stronger than anything else in society in which we live. Together we can be more stronger," Shakya went on saying.

Co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland Prajwal Vajracharya threw light on the ongoing activities of the Vihara.

At the end of the New Year's reception program a game of musical chair was also organized for three categories: male, female and kids. Lucky winners were given away prizes by Nepa Chhen.

Meanwhile, Nepa Chhen, in a statement issued recently has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Diwakar Maharjan for providing the venue and all kinds of help, Keshab/Gyani Maharjan, Sunil Tamrakar for providing dinner, Kritish Rajbhandari, Dr Rabin Man Shakya, Naveena Shakya for registration, Ganga Sharma for handling cultural program and to all the volunteers.

Nepa Chhen is a local community organization which is committed to promote and enhance the Nepalese culture and traditions in USA. Nepa Chhen has been organizing various programs in the past to celebrate Nepal Sambat New Year - Mha Puja, Mohani Nakha - Dashain, Gregorian New Year celebration and various other programs. 

 

Teachings and Performances during Guruji's Solo Pilgrimage Tour of HK, Japan

Charya Nritya Blooms in Japan during Guruji's Visit

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Nov 23 (Nepal Oregon News):  Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara visited Japan from Nov 13 - Nov 23, 2025. Leader of Nepalese Esoteric Buddhism Charya Nritya Association - Yuko Okomoto - a Japanese nun coordinated Prajwal Guruji's visit to Japan. Yuko is also Prajwal Guruji's Charya dance student.

Yuko Okomoto studied at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu and is fluent in Nepali and Nepal Bhasa.

Prajwal Guruji visited many monasteries and sacred sites in Japan to teach and perform esoteric charya dances.

A lunch program was organized with students at Wanowa Cafe in Osaka on Nov 14. The Guruji held fieldwork with the students at Tenno-Ji temple the same day.

On Saturday, Nov 15 Prajwal Guruji visited Kannon-Ji temple at Ando (Kashihara city). A chanting was performed by Prajwal Guruji at the Kannon-Ji temple. Similarly, Prajwal Guruji performed Vajrasattva and Mahakala charya dances, whereas Yuko Okomoto presented Arya Tara charya dance.

The event was followed by a lecture by the Guruji on Newar Buddhism. The Guruji offered Sodasa Lasya and Refuge dance together with the students. After that, a speech on "Kashihara City's Old Buddhism" was delivered by Historical Museum Director. Similarly, singing bowl, crystal bowl, original composition dance and native American drum performances were offered on the occasion.

Likewise, on Sunday, Nov 16, in Osaka, Gurumandala Puja was performed by Prajwal Guruji for students. Eight students took part at the Gurumandala Puja. The Guruji highlighted the religious significance of the Puja. Underscoring the importance of Das Paramita in Charya Dances, Prajwal Guruji also mentioned that Charya Nritya is a Buddhist ritual dance with a history going back to more than 1,000 years. An empowerment (Dikchha) on deity Padmanateshvara was also conducted for Japanese students by Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest. On the same day, he also held a special class on the importance of Charya Nritya  for the Japanese students.

Another Gurumandala Puja was ritualized on Monday, Nov 17 for the students of Tokyo. The number of students attending the Gurumandala Puja was five. The Puja in Tokyo was followed by Charya Nritya class and a dinner with the students.

Similarly, on Nov 18, Prajwal Guruji was taken to Nihon temple -- 1500 years old temple built with single rock and 1500 Arahatas. The same day, at Hospice Clinic 'Hanano Tani', Prajwal Guruji presented Vajrasattva charya dance while Yuko Okomoto offered Manjushree charya dance. Yuko also threw light on the importance of hand healing. It was followed by Chaluyar Nuritha's lecture, workshop on ancient Nepalese hand finger yoga at the Hospice in Minamiboso, Chiba. Yuko Okomoto says quoting Mami Ito, director of the hospice,  in her social media platform that the news about the event has been uploaded to the clinic's website. Later, in the evening, Daal-Bhat-Tarkari was offered to Prajwal Guruji at the house of Hospice Clinic's doctor. 

A Facebook post of Yuko Okomoto on Nov 18 says: Yukari Nabeda, who is a freelance writer and writes a lot of articles, wrote about the program in Chiba in the 'Bohichi Shimbun'. In his write-up, Nabeda focused on Charya nritya, Newar Buddhism, Ratna Kaji Vajracharya annd Prajwal Vajracharya. Nov 19 and Nov 20 (Wednesday and Thursday) were spent by the Guruji visiting surrounding monasteries and temples and a visit to Shin-Okubo, Tokyo.

Meanwhile, writing on his social media platform Facebook on Nov 20, Japanese Buddhist scholar Tanaka said:"Prajwal Vajracharya is now visiting Japan. I met him on Nov 20 at Solmari Restaurant, Okubo, Tokyo. I noticed that the Sahujee is my old friend Kashi Nath Tamot's nephew." The Buddhist scholar presented his book to Prajwal Guruji at the Solmari Restaurant.

On Friday, Nov 21, Prajwal Guruji was taken to Kanaya Sea Port in Higashi Obama (Fukui prefecture). Kanaya Sea Port is famous for multiple Buddhist monasteries and temples. "There was a Buddhist temple even at the top of the mountain," Prajwal Guruji said, adding "I had the privilege to visit couple of those historical temples in Kanaya Sea Port. 

Prior to this, in the morning, there was Kechie Kanjo ritual experience and in the afternoon Yuko gave a lecture on Charya Nritya at the Nepalese Esoteric Buddhism Charya Nritya Association. 

Prajwal Guruji offered a performance at a museum in Higashi Obama. The tour was coordinated by Mr Kawamura.

Moreover, on Nov 22, Saturday, a workshop on Gurumandala Puja was organized at Wakasa Historical Museum. A lecture program was held at the museum. Speaking on the occasion, Prajwal Guruji said:"Gurumandala Puja is performed, teaching the practice of purifying the body, speech and mind. The Gurumandala Puja is very commonly used for any rituals in Newar Buddhist traditions. In this practice, you become Vajrasattva. To become Vajrasattva, there is an elaborate process to create and enter into Mandala. This is a thousand year old ritual carried on by Vajracharya priests as carried on to the present day. The Gurumandala Puja is so important that without it there is no Mahayana, no Vajrayana in Nepal."

Furthermore, the same day, Prajwal Guruji performed three Charya nritya dances at the museum: Prajnaparamita, Mahakala and Vajrasattva, whereas Yuko Okomoto presented Green Tara and Manjushree charya dances.

Prajwal Guruji was the guest of Dharma Lama ji in the evening on Saturday. Dharma Lama is a Nepali entrepreneur and artist in Japan.

Besides, Sunday, Nov 23, was marked by a visit to Toga village. Toga is connected to Tukuche village in Nepal by sister city ties. Paintings of artist Gautam Ratna Vajracharya (Prajwal Guruji's eldest brother) were on display at a museum in Toga village.

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Prajwal Guruji's Visit Aims to Promote Vajra Dance Activities in Hong Kong

Portland, Dec 2 (Nepal Oregon News): Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya's visit to Hong Kong was followed by his solo pilgrimage to Japan. The Guruji was in Hong Kong for a week from  Nov 25 to Dec 1, 2025.

A teaching on 'Kaya, Vaka Chitta' was organized by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) on Wednesday, Nov 26, 2025 at Utpala Meditation Center in Hong Kong. Prajwal Guruji's presentation on 'Kaya, Vaka, Chitta' was participated by 35 people in Hong Kong.

Addressing the Hong Kong students, the Guruji said:"Kaya is the body, Vaka is the speech and Chitta is the mind." Prajwal Guruji went on saying that any Mudra that is made cannot be separated from Kaya, Vaka, Chitta." The Guruji further said:" Our every gesture and movement in dancing is connected with body, speech and mind."

Prajwal Guruji inspired students of Hong Kong Dance Mandal with his teaching on how to embody Kaya, Vaka Chitta and connect through learning Kaya Mudra, Vaka Mudra and Chitta Mudra. During the teaching, Prajwal Guruji discussed how certain movements and Mudras effect health and shared yogic exercises for healing of hands, feet and energy channels.

Saying that Kaya, Vaka Chitta are the ways to achieve the enlightenment, the Guruji threw light on the connection of Kaya, Vaka, Chitta with the Charya dance.

Likewise, a lecture program on "Who is Dakini/Yogini ?" was organized on Thursday, Nov 27, 2025 at Utpala Meditation Center in Hong Kong. Prajwal Vajracharya was the key-note speaker. The lecture event on Dakinis was attended by 35 Hongkongers. Addressing the event, Prajwal Guruji underlined the importance and relevance of Dakinis in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism.

A yogini/dakini is a dynamic female spirit or deity in Newar Buddhism, representing the enlightened feminine principle and serving as a key element for spiritual awakening, the Guruji added. Prajwal Guruji said:"Dakinis are energetic beings in female form, evocative of the movement of energy in space."

The Guruji added:"Dakinis are often depicted as wrathful and semi-wrathful yet compassionate figures who can be purely spiritual beings, highly accomplished spiritual practitioners." 

Meanwhile, an Empowerment (Dikchha) and Full Teaching on Deity Vajravarahi (Vajravarahi Retreat) was organized for three days from Friday - Sunday, Nov 28-30, 2025 at Hong Kong Buddhist Association Shaten Center. 

The full teaching and empowerment was conducted by Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Newar Vajrayana Buddhist priest. It is to be noted that for the practice of Sadhana of Vajravarahi, an initiation or empowerment (Dikchha) is always required. Twenty Hongkongers took part at the 3-day long Vajravarahi retreat.

First two days of the retreat were devoted to the comprehensive - theoretical and detailed teaching about deity Vajravarahi, while the last day was programmed for practical teaching of Vajravarahi charya dance and empowerment (Dikchha).

Saying that deity Vajravarahi's worship is very popular in Nepal, the chief pujari at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA, informed the participants that a special shrine is dedicated to  this Dakini in Lalitpur, Nepal.

The three-day symposium was an opportunity for the Hongkongers  to acquire comprehensive and detailed knowledge about the deity Vajravarahi. Prajwal Guruji, who is one of the seniormost Charya Nritya pedagogue in the world, also informed the participants that there are a number of Charya gitis dedicated to goddess Vajravarahi.

The co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in USA went on to say:"In Newar Tantric Vajrayana Buddhism, Vajravarahi is one of the most revered female deity who protects  Newar temples and buildings. Varahi refers to any of the four boar-headed deities who preside over the Nepal Mandala." 

Throwing light on the iconography of the goddess Vajravarahi, he said:"Vajravarahi, who is one of the manifestations of Vajrayogini, is red in color and stands on a reclining body of Bhairava in dancing posture." Further elucidating on the female deity's iconography, the Guruji said:"Vajravarahi holds a Kartri in her right hand on level of head and holds a Kapala filled with blood in her left. The deity carries a Khatvanga stick surmounted by three skulls. She wears a garland of fifty severed heads and various gold ornaments."

"Vajravarahi is the quintessence and embodiment of compassion. But when she was chased by evil creatures, she would hide under the ground, protecting  herself with the help of her boar's mouth. Vajravarahi is the mother of all Dakinis and  she is invoked to destroy enemies," said the Guruji adding that she is the Dakini who can move ahead transforming malice and malevolence into compassion and kindness."

In this Charya dance, the performer channels Vajravarahi's energy to invoke her qualities of wisdom and compassion. The Vajravarahi charya nritya is a ritual enactment of her divine attributes, using Mudras (hand gestures), Mantras, and symbolic movements, the Guruji told the participants in Hong Kong.

During the teaching, Prajwal Guruji also conducted the fundamental movements and dance teaching. The Charya Nritya teacher demonstrated hand and finger mudra and showed different steps of the dance 'Vajravarahi'. He also explained in detail the meaning of Charya giti 'Vajravarahi' which was written in Sanskrit. Finally, the Guruji also performed the Vajravarahi charya nritya for the participants. At the end of the teaching, every day, Prajwal Guruji answered to the questions raised by the Hong Kong participants. 

Likewise, a teaching on 'Understanding Maha Mudra through Mudra' by Prajwal Guruji was held at Utpala Mediatation Center in Hong Kong on Monday, Dec 1, 2025. 

This teaching emphasized spiritual yoga through subtle fluidity of movement, breath and stillness. 

Mudra Yoga, according to Prajwal Guruji, leads to experience and  understanding of the bodies and our own individual Mudras, culminating in realization of Maha Mudra (highest realization).

Prajwal Guruji led participants with simple movement gestures and positions from his lineage of deity yoga.

At the end of Prajwal Guruji's Hong Kong visit, several members of Hong Kong Sangha and participants expressed their views and comments about their experience with the Guruji's teachings:

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The Power of Empowerment in Vajarvarahi

By Dr Tina Ho

Chant loudly

With me wholeheartedly

Enjoy the Vajravarahi song

Immersed in the melody

Feel every word

Coming from my mouth

Coming from my spirit

In a split second

My inner body is open

A beautiful voice is coming from my navel

The laughter of youth

Neither notions nor pretense

Just as what it is 

My body became hollow

Every note I can hear 

Crisp sound in chanting

Vajravarahi

Please no hesitation 

Activating your energy

Guiding me 

Dancing in every moment

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Leaning on Experience in Prajwal's

Teaching Tour 2025

Dr Eliza My Lau

I am grateful to Prajwal for coming to Hong Kong and sharing so many wonderful teachings, as well as inspiration I experienced during the retreat and the public talks.

We were reminded of the outer, inner and secret aspects of any Buddhist practice. I found the depth of this experience especially relevant to my Charya dance practice. Every movement, every gesture, down to the minutest details, begins with an outer manifestation. However, all are to be realized as secret - the dissolution of all forms into spaciousness, where everything is possible but nothing truly exists. The depth and profoundness of Charya Nritya are beyond language and conceptual understanding.

The Vajravarahi dance is the main focus of the retreat. It exemplifies the profoundness of Charya Nritya through the dancer's bodily expressions - outer, inner and secret - and the witness of the transformation of Kleshas and wisdom, the bliss of emptiness, the ultimate transcendence, and the freedom of clear light.

The teaching of Maha Mudra by Prajwal reminds me of the path of the Bodhisattva - the nobility of the heart rooted in pure motivation to bring about true happiness in this life and beyond. This serves as a very important reminder  for any practitioner : the root cause of Buddhahood  is Bodhichitta - the wish and total commitment to help all sentient beings see the truth and realize who they truly are.

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By Practicing Charya Dance, I have 

Found a Better Version of Myself

By Dickon Kong

Time has flown by over the past few days under the nurturing guidance of Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya in Hong Kong. Now I must wait another year to see him here again.

This marks my third year attending Guruji's classes in Hong Kong. Three years ago, I began with no knowledge of Buddhism or Charya dance. At that time, Dr Tina Ho recommended that I join Guruji Prajwal's classes when he came to Hong Kong in 2023 classes, something moved me to commit to practicing it.

By practicing Charya dance, I have found a better version of myself - more humble, happier, and free from worries.

This year Guruji Prajwal taught us the Vajravarahi dance. What fascinates me most are the nine emotions embodied in the form. Guruji Prajwal explained that each emotion is like a coin with sides: good and bad. Negative emotions can transform into positive ones if we are willing to.

Practicing the Vajravarahi Charya dance allows us to experience all nine emotions within a single performance and to  embody that transformation. It is quite challenging, and it has become my main goal for the coming year - to learn, through this dance, that I always have a choice. 

I will always treasure Guruji Prajwal's teachings, and look forward to his return to Hong Kong to guide us again in 2026.

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Inexpressible Thanks to Guru Prajwal

By Saldon Wu

To me, all the teachings: "Body/Speech/Mind", "What is Dakini", "Vajravarahi Retreat" and "Mudra and Maha Mudra" are like the Indra's Net in the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra), interconnecting, inter-reflecting and inter-resonating. Each reflects the whole.

Very overwhelming !

It is a great reminder on how to lead my life.

What is next is to walk Prajwal Guruji's talk, and ground the teachings in my system. I still don't know what is my essence/talent, what to offer the world. Yet, from here and now, I will move on, and let it unveil along the path.

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Vajravarahi is So Powerful and Yet So Compassionate to All Sentient Beings

By Elaine Pang

Immersed so heavily in the music and dance of Vajravarahi, the lessons of her sloka and full dance provide a channel for me to feel her energy and stay concentrated in future practices.

The Dakini is so powerful and yet so compassionate to all sentient beings that I really wish my practices would bring me Dhyana in her Dhatu.

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I am Happy to Learn about Vajravarahi

By Pamela Chan

I am happy to go to the retreat and learn about Vajravarahi dance. I realized that we have different emotions, and emotion can actually be used as a practice to lead us to a deeper wisdom for its nature is also emptiness.

I start to be more aware of my emotion from my daily life to see through the reason behind that trigger. I found that different emotions are like different masks put on our face. However, behind the mask... there is nothing... no such thing called 'me'. If we do not stick to the concept of me, the emotion is like a mask and can be taken off easily.

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Zoom Talk on Kaya, Vaka, Chitta

Portland, Dec 24 (Nepal Oregon News): Kaya, Vaka, Chitta are Sanskrit words which mean body (kaya), speech (vaka) and mind (chitta).

A number of important activities can be accomplished if we purify Kaya, Vaka, Chitta. Kaya, Vaka, Chitta are the way to get the enlightenment.

Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest now based in Portland, USA said this while addressing a zoom program entitled "Experiment of Kaya, Vaka Chitta in Vajrayana Tantra" organized by Nepali Sarvamnaya Tantra on Wednesday, Dec 24, 2025.

At the beginning of the zoom program, Sandip Sapkota of Nepal Sarvamnaya Tantra gave brief introduction about Prajwal Vajracharya and also informed the online participants that his organization has been holding the virtual conferences for last five years.

Prajwal Vajracharya, who is a Buddhist scholar, started the presentation by performing a praying Refuge ritual for Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.

The online presentation on 'Kaya,Vaka, Chitta' was participated by several people including Dr Daya Ram Shrestha Lubhu.

Throwing light on Kaya, Prajwal Guruji said:"Kaya also refers to the 'Buddha Bodies' -- Dharmakaya, Sambhogkaya, Nirmanakaya -- representing different aspects of enlightened presence, connecting mind, speech and body of a Buddha."

During the remotely-held presentation, Pajwal Guruji also explained in detail about Prattyasamutpada, Dharmachakra and wheel of life. The Guruji shed light on the connection of Kaya, Vaka, Chitta with the human life. On the occasion, he also demonstrated rare pictures of deities, temples, Dharma objects, Charya giti lyrics and pictures of human physiology.

Explaining that Kaya, Vaka, Chitta have connections with all kinds of meditations, Prajwal Guruji shared that there is no survival of human beings without Kaya, Vaka, Chitta.

Underscoring the importance of Chakrasambhara Tantra, the noted Charya dance pedagogue also elucidated on Chakrasambhara initiation, Kala Chakra initiation and Nyasa.

It was Nepali Sarvamnaya Tantra's 267th zoom episode and Prajwal Guruji's third time presentation.

At the end of the online presentation, Prajwal Guruji answered to the questions raised by the participants.

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Wedding Rituals in Honolulu

Portland, Dec 6 (Nepal Oregon News): The marriage of Shraddha Malakar and Christopher was solemnized by Prajwal Vajracharya - a 35th generation Vajracharya Guruju - on Saturday, Dec 6, 2025 in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

Shraddha Malakar is the daughter of Pashupati Malakar and Meera Malakar.

Parents of the bride as well as groom were present at the wedding ceremony conducted by Prajwal Guruji.

The wedding ceremony in Honolulu began with the ubiquitous Gurumandala Puja in which Guruju Prajwal Vajracharya not only offered ritual materials and objects, he purified them as well as his own body, mind and speech.

Swayambar was the most important component of the wedding ritual in which the bride circled the groom and placed a flower garland over his head  and vice versa. Prajwal Guruji indicated that the circling binds their energies together, which was solidified with the exchange of wedding rings.

On Friday, Dec 5, a welcome dinner with tea ceremony (based on Vietnamese tradition) was organized for the guests of the wedding ceremony.

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Esoteric and Rare Charya Nritya Dances Displayed at Portland Baha, USA

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Comes Alive with Various Programs to Celebrate Its 16th Anniversary

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Nov 9 (Nepal Oregon News): A day-long program was organized on Sunday, Nov 9, 2025 to mark the sixteenth anniversary of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM), the first and only one Newar Vajrayana Buddhist monastery in the West.

The sixteenth anniversary kicked off with the ubiquitous Gurumandala Puja which was ritualized by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Authentic chantings - seven limbs of most excellent rituals were conducted by the Guruji. The elements of the ritual offering were -- (1) Vandana: Bowing Down, (2) Pujana: Making Offerings, (3) Desana: Confessions of Sins, (4) Modana: Rejoicing in Merit, (5) Adhyesana: Requesting the Teaching, (6) Yacana: Entreating the Buddha to Remain in the World for Aeons and (7) Namana: Dedication of Merits.

The ritual preparation for Vihara's sixteenth anniversary involved  many objects including the arrangements of 108 butter lamps, 108 water bowls, 108 Tormas (miniature stupas) and 108 Gulupa or begging bowls.

Gurumandala Puja was elaborately conducted  by Prajwal Guruji. Other participants of the Gurumandala Puja were Sangha members: Joshua Proto, Anna Shustrova, Riyaz Khan, Gabriel Quitslund, Naveena Shakya, Adam Bidema, Anastasia Roderick, Uppa Shakya and Pradeep Bajracharya.

Upon the completion of the Puja, Prajwal Guruji dabbed the auspicious Sinha on the forehead of all the participants and guests, offered them flowers and Kokha.

Co-founder of the Mahavihara Helen Appell performed Cha Puja rituals at all corners of the temple.

In the last 16 years, Nritya Mandala Mahavihara has continuously served the Sangha or community in many different ways, and credit for this goes to co-founders Helen Appell and Prajwal Vajracharya.

The Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA is the first and only one Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple in 350 years and it is the first Newar Vajrayana Buddhist monastery built outside of Nepal. 

Evening celebration of the anniversary was followed by Buddha Bhajans, Talent Show and International Charya Dance Show in person and online on zoom by the members of Hong Kong Dance Mandal.

Buddha Bhajans, such as, Tri Ratna Lumanki, Jaya Namoshree, Najato, Vasundhara, Dasparamita, Anitya Thwo Sansare etc were rendered in Nepal Bhasa  by Joshua Proto, Adam Bidema and Anna Shustrova.

 

To mark the 16th anniversary, Nritya Mandala Mahavihara came alive with various esoteric and ritual meditative Charya Nritya dances.

Charya Nritya is an important part of Newar  Vajrayana Buddhism. It originated in Nepal Mandala. This ancient dance dates back to more than 1,000 years and is a religious discipline of the Buddhist priests of the Kathmandu valley, who perform the dances as part of their esoteric meditation, practices, ceremonies and rituals.

Refuge dance:

The Charya Nritya dance program kicked off with the Refuge dance which was performed by a group of Charya Nritya dancers. Refuge dance is a performance of Buddha Bandana Dance through Charya Nritya.

Rakta Ganesha Charya Nritya Dance:

Rakta Ganesha Charya dance was displayed by Joshua Proto. The Rakta Ganesh charya dance is a sacred, traditional Newar Buddhist ritual dance from the Kathmandu valley. The dance is dedicated to the elephant-headed deity Lord Ganesha, specifically in his red, Tantric form, known as Rakta Ganesha. The image of Rakta Ganesha (Red Ganesh) is generally found along with Mahakala at the entrance of Buddhist monasteries in the Kathmandu valley. Rakta Ganesha is a mask Charya dance. Lord Ganesha is not only a protector of Dharma practice and prosperity, but he is also known as a deity who removes obstacles and difficulties of the human beings.

Akash Yogini Charya Nritya Dance:

Similarly, during the anniversary event, members of the Hong Kong Dance Mandal also presented three Charya dances on the zoom: Akash Yogini charya dance, Vasundhara charya dance and Vasundhara sloka.

Akash Yogini charya dance is a specific, sacred meditative dance within Newar Vajrayana Buddhist traditions of Nepal. Akash Yogini is a powerful, wrathful Dakini also known as 'sky dancer'. Her name reflects her association with space, sky or ether (akasha), symbolizing her unbounded nature. Her dynamic posture and movements symbolize her freedom from conventional limitations. She embodies enlightened wisdom and transformative energy.  Akash Yogini charya nritya dance was performed on zoom by Hong Kong Dance Mandal members: Saldon Wu, Tina Ho, Eliza Lau and Lingling Lee.

Vasundhara Charya Nritya dance:

Vasundhara is a female Bodhisattva who symbolizes wealth (including material and spiritual). In terms of iconography, she has three faces and six arms, holding different Dharma objects in her hands possessing different abilities. She is the Goddes of Harvest, the Earth Mother, nurtures all her children. Golden-Yellow, like the element Earth, she is adorned with jewels and ornaments, symbolizing her association with  wealth and abundance. Vasundhara Charya dance was offered virtually online by Hong Kong Dance Mandal activists: Sanniti Leung, Dickon Kong, Nora Ng, Patty Chan, Mary Lau and Shira Chan. Likewise, Vasundhara sloka was presented by Sanniti Leung, Venus Chow, Melody Chin, Diana Cheung, Fiona Yiu, Mei Mei Suen.

Yogini Mandala Charya Nritya Dance:

The Charya dance 'Yogini Mandala' was offered by Anna Shustrova, Anastasia Roderick, Corinne Nakamura and Uppa Shakya. Yogini Mandala is one of the traditional Charya dances which consists of deities Nairatma, Vajrayogini, Akashyogini and Jagat Janani. The Yogini Mandala charya dance is a moving, visual interplay of the powerful energies of four semi-wrathful yoginis. They are in Mandala formation in order to replicate the Nepal Mandala created by their temples in the Kathmandu valley. These four intensely female deities provide passion, wisdom and strength of purpose to all Vajrayana Buddhists. 

Nairatma Charya Nritya Dance:

The solo 'Nairatma' charya dance was carried out by Uppa Shakya. The mother of selflessness, Nairatma is blue like the limitless clear blue sky. She is the spontaneous wisdom female energy, empty of all projection and judgement. Nairatma holds a chopper, a skull cup, and a staff. She wears a crown of skulls and the hide of a man as she tramples negative forces.

Kurukulla Charya Nritya dance:

Kurukulla charya dance was performed by Anna Shustrova. Kurukulla charya dance is a sacred Buddhist ritual dance that embodies the deity Kurukulla, representing magnetizing energy and enlightened feminine power. Kurukulla is a female Tantric deity in Vajrayana Buddhism associated with magnetizing, enchantment, hypnotism and spiritual power. In iconography, she is often depicted in red, symbolizing passion and transformation, and holds a flower, bow and arrow, representing attraction and influence.

 The Kurukulla charya nritya is a ritual enactment of Kurukulla's divine attributes, using Mudras, hand and finger gestures, Mantras and symbolic movements.

Arya Tara Charya Nritya dance:

 Arya Tara Charya Nritya dance was rendered by Adam Bidema. Arya Tara is an important deity in Newar Buddhism. She appears as female Buddha in Vajrayana Buddhism. She is also known as 'mother of liberation' and represents the virtues of success in work and achievements. Arya 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 generously with her right hand and holds a lotus of parity with her left hand at her heart.

Vajravarahi Charya Nritya Dance:

Vajravarahi charya nritya dance was put on the stage by Corinne Nakamura. Vajravarahi charya nritya dance is part of the broader Charya nritya tradition, a form of spiritual performance practiced by Newar Buddhist priests - particularly the Vajracharyas and the Shakyas of Nepal. This dance is not merely artistic, it is a meditative and devotional act that embodies the qualities of deity Vajravarahi through movement, visualization and ritual. Vajravarahi charya nritya is a more manifestation of the ubiquitous Vajrayogini. She is wrathful, passionate and vibrant red. The Kartika she holds cuts through ignorance and attachment. Her skull cup, filled with nectars she has transformed from foul substances, symbolizing her ability to transform daily life experience into wisdom. This is a mask dance.

Avlokiteshvara Charya Nritya Dance: 

Avlokiteshvara Charya Nritya dance was performed by Anastasia Roderick. Avlokiteshvara is the revered, white Bodhisattva of universal compassion, a primary deity in the Newar Buddhist tradition. He embodies compassion in its most recognizable form, as gentleness, softness and kindness. Holding a blue lotus of purity in his left hand, Avlokiteshvara holds his right hand extended in generosity, endlesssly dispensing blessings. He relieves sufferings, and destroys sorrow. He travels universe, assisting sentient beings everywhere towards enlightenment.

Vajrayogini Charya Nritya Dance:

Vajrayogini charya nritya dance was presented by Diaz Khan. Vajrayogini is one of the most profound and graceful sacred charya dances of the Kathmandu valley. Vajrayogini charya nritya dance is a sacred meditative ritual dance from Newar Buddhist tradition of Nepal. It is a profound spiritual practice where the performer aims to embody the enlightened qualities of the Vajrayogini through specific movements, visualizations and music. Vajrayogini is a primary female Buddha. She is semi-wrathful, bright red and dances joyfully without shame or fear, glorifying in her femaleness.

Jaya Bacchali Chharya Nritya Dance:

 Finally, Jaya Bacchali charya nritya dance was performed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. This is a charya nritya which is very ancient and very sacred, coming from deep in the caves and secret rituals of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism. It has never been in public before. It describes a stunning, powerful , fierce liberator, Hevajra. A Tantric deity of prime stature, his very presence shatters ignorance and obstacles. As his divine feet touch the Earth Mandala, the ringing of his ankle bells resonates throughout the three worlds, awakening the consciousness of those who can hear his sound.

All the charya nritya dances presented during the anniversary event was choreographed by Prajwal Vajracharya. Joshua Proto, a seasoned and skilled charya giti singer and Meadow Lisa Wong sang the giti for all the Charya dances and also played the Tinchu.

The role of masters of ceremony for the Charya Nritya Dance event was carried out by Kuon Hunt and John Rybak with flying colors. The Damaru drum during the Charya dances was played by John Rybak.

Meanwhile, during the Open Mike event, several people participated, singing and playing instruments and expressing their views. A group charya dance 'Sixteen Offering Goddess Charya Dance' was offered by the Sangha members during the talent show.

Similarly, Neelam Kushbaha presented a devotional song 'Gauripriya', whereas founder president of Nepali Association of Oregon  Raju Mali shed light on community activities.

On the occasion, presenting a brief Dharma talk, co-founder of the Mahavihara and senior priest Prajwal Vajracharya said:"Nritya Mandala Mahavihara which is the Foundation for Sacred Buddhist Arts of Nepal, is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Charya Nritya and the related traditions of instruments and vocal music, choreography and crafts of making masks, costumes and jewelry used in sacred Charya dances."

To mark the joyous occasion, Satya Bayou played an instrument 'Swar peti' while Joshua Proto offered Raga, and Dechen Lhamo enthralled the audience with Native American Flute playing.

Anna Shustrova and Rabin Man Shakya rendered an old Russian song 'Pod Moskovniye Vechera'.

The sixteenth anniversary program was participated by people on zoom and 80 people at the Mahavihara in Portland in person, and was followed by breakfast, lunch and dinner offered by the Vihara.

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Chandra Ratharohan of Octogenarian Newar Lady Ms Sushila Shrestha Ritualized

Portland, Nov 5 (Nepal Oregon News): A senior 'Janko' religious ceremony of octogenarian Newar lady Sushila Shrestha was solemnized by Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th-generation Vajrayana priest on Wednesday, Nov 5, 2025.

The Janko ceremony 'Chandra Ratharohan' of Ms Sushila Shrestha, 82, mother of Sugan Munankarmi and mother-in-law of Dhurbesh Munankarmi was held at their residence: 2424 Remington Drive, West Linn.

All 'Janko' related rituals, such as, Gurumandala Puja and other Pujas were solemnized by Prajwal Guruji. Sixteen Chandra Mandalas were also drawn during the ritual as part of Chandra Ratharohan ceremony.

According to Prajwal Guruji, Janko or Bhimratharohan is an important part of lifecycle rituals. 

It is a ceremony, he says, that celebrates longevity, primarily starting at age 77 years, 7 months, 7 days and7 hours, with subsequent ceremonies like Chandra Ratharohan (around 82-83), Deva Ratharohan (at 88), and Divya Ratharohan (at 99), culminating in potentially a Maha Divya Ratharohan (around 105), all involving symbolic chariot rides and honoring the individual's journey and spiritual life.

Volunteers Work to Clean up Vihara for Anniversary Event

Portland, Nov 2 (Nepal Oregon News): A cleaning drive of the temple was organized on Saturday-Sunday Nov 1-2, 2025 right before the Mahavihara's 16th anniversary celebrations.

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

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the only Newar Buddhist temple in the West, was built with materials brought all the way from Nepal.

They have to be preserved and protected, taking into consideration the differences of climatic conditions between Kathmandu and Portland.

The doors of the temple, the windows, the Toranas, all the offering Goddess struts, the statues of the Buddha, the Bodhisattvas and the Dakinis, the stupa, the bell, the praying wheels and most of the decorations were brought from Nepal for Portland's Newar Buddhist temple and need to be maintained and cleaned appropriately

The volunteers were provided with the lunch by Prajwal Guruji.

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Portland's Renowned Nepali Chef Bikram Vaidya Recognized for Remarkable Work

'The Mystic Kitchens of Nepal' Wins World's Best Food Tourism Cookbook at International Gourmand Awards in Riyadh

Dr Rabin Man Shakya 

 Portland, Nov 30 (Nepal Oregon News): Bikram Vaidya, Portland's renowned Nepali chef,  has won the World's Best Food Tourism Cookbook for his book 'The Mystic Kitchens of Nepal' at the 31st International Gourmand Award held on Thursday-Sunday, Nov 27-30, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This prestigious award for rating food and beverage books around the world is one of the highest considered in the culinary publication sector.

Writers and representatives from around 20 countries had participated at the Riyadh Awards Ceremony.

Vaidya's book provides a comprehensive overview of diverse Nepalese food and culture, underscoring the profound interrelationship between food, rituals and vibrant festivals.

Based on his journey that took 16 years of research, travel and hard work, Vaidya's book reflects on spiritual role of food in fostering healthy lifestyles.

The certificate of honor given to Vaidya in Riyadh Awards Ceremony states:"Heartfelt congratulations, chef Bikram Vaidya, for The Mystic Kitchens of Nepal. This remarkable work brings to life Nepal's culinary richness, combining the recipes  with travel anecdotes, cultural perspectives, and stunning imagery."

The certificate went on saying:"A vibrant homage to Nepal's unique flavors and multicultural influences, this book invites curious travelers and home chefs to discover food that nourishes both body and spirit."

Meanwhile, writing on a social media platform, Vaidya said:"This award celebrates Nepal's traditional recipes, our culture, my travel experiences, and the wisdom passed down through generations. My goal has been to connect readers with the hands, traditions and heritage that shaped our food."

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in America.)