Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Working to Preserve Newar Art and Culture, Says Prajwal Vajracharya

Reed College Students Visit Newar Buddhist Monastery in Portland

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Oct 9 (Nepal Oregon News): Nritya Mandala Mahavihara preserves and shares the tradition of Buddhist practice, arts and culture held by the indigenous Newar people of the Nepal Mandala. Established in Portland, USA in 2009, our center is the first Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple in the West with performance and art making spaces and a library of old and new Buddhist texts.

Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara said this while welcoming the students of Portland's Reed College at the Vihara. A big team consisting of two professors - Kristin Scheible and Kritish Rajbhandari and 22 students of the college visited the Newar Buddhist monastery on Friday, Oct 9, 2026 to get acquainted  with the kind of Buddhism that is being practiced in Nepal for centuries. 

Prajwal Guruji started his presentation by showing and explaining about  the exterior of the Vihara: the stupa, the Tiki Jhya, Toranas, Pancha Buddha etc on the premises of the Vihara.

The Guruji informed the students that the Vihara was built with stuffs and materials brought all the way from Nepal.

The Guruji showed students the Tiki Jhyas at the Vihara and explained that a Tiki Jhya also known as Ankhi Jhyal is a centuries old, hand carved wooden lattice window that serves as the definitive pinnacle of traditional Newar architecture in the Kathmandu valley.

Tiki Jhyas were made and built at the Newar Buddhist monasteries during Malla and Shah-Rana repressive Hindu rule in Nepal, he added.

Throwing light on Torana, the Guruji said that a Torana is a free-standing ornamental or arched  gateway for ceremonial purposes seen in the Buddhist and Hindu arts and architecture of Nepal and India. He said that Sixteen Offering Goddesses are depicted on the free-standing Toranas at the Vihara.

The Guruji discussed the significance of a stupa in Newar Buddhism and gave detailed accounts of various parts of the stupa at the Vihara.

Showing students the Pancha Buddha outside of the temple, Prajjwal Guruji said that Pancha Buddhas - Vairochana, Akshovya, Ratnasamvabha, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi - are central symbolic figures in Vajrayana Buddhism.

During the presentation inside the Vihara, Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest, shed light on various Buddhas like Vipashwi Buddha, Shikhi Buddha, Vishwobhu Buddha, Krakuchanda Buddha, Kashyap Buddha and Kanakmuni Buddha.

During the talk, the Guruji said that, according to Swayambhu Purana, the Kathmandu valley was a huge lake centuries ago and mentioned about Lord Manjushree who cut a gorge at Chobhar in the Kathmandu valley with his flaming sword to allow the lake to drain.

Newar Buddhism is a unique and richly layered tradition of Vajrayana Buddhism practiced by the Newar people of the Kathmandu valley, Prajwal Guruji said and added:"It blends ancient Buddhist rituals with local customs, Sanskrit texts and a vibrant artistic heritage."

During the presentation, the Guruji also underscored the importance of Bahals and Bahis in Newar Buddhism, saying that these monastic courtyards serve as spiritual hubs for rituals and community.

Also, during the meeting with the Reed College students, the Guruji viewed that six paramitas Dana, Sila, Ksanti, Virya, Dhyana and Prajna are six transcendental perfections of Buddhism.

During the gathering with the Reed students, the Guruji emphasized the importance of the five elements in Newar Buddhism - earth, water, fire, air and space.

The Guruji went on saying: In Newar Buddhism, enlightenment and full understanding of the Buddhist teachings of transformation of mind, entails singing and dancing. Specifically, it means  meditation which which is equal to dancing, and mantra, which is equal to singing."

Describing about Charya Nritya, the Guruji said that Charya dance is a meditational dance that tells stories of the inner qualities and awakening of the Buddhist deities." Charya is a Buddhist ritual dance with a history going back to more than 1000 years. It is performed by Vajracharyas as part of their esoteric meditation practices and rituals."

The Guruji underscored role of his father late Ratna Kaji Vajracharya in reviving Charya, once on the verge of extinction." My father had written and published 20 books on various aspects of Newar Buddhism and had published collection of 560 charya gitis vol 1 and 2," he said.

At the end of the program, the Reed College team visited library, art section, mask section and costume section of the Vihara.

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Pancha Buddha Serve as a Transformational Framework for Humankind, Says Prajwal Vajracharya

Portland, Oct 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A zoom presentation "Pancha Buddha Teaching and Praise of Five Buddhas" was organized by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) on Friday, Oct 30, 2026. The remotely held teaching was conducted by Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA and was attended by 20 participants.

The 35th generation Vajrayana priest kicked off the virtual teaching by reciting Pancha Buddha sloka: "Jino Vairochana Khyato Ratna Sambhava Me Baca, Amitabha, Amoghasiddhi, Achyobhyeca Prakritita".The Guruji then explained word by word the meaning of the Pancha Buddha sloka dance.

Throwing light on elements, the Guruji informed the zoom participants that Vairochana represents Space, Achovya - Water, while Ratnasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi symbolize Earth, Fire and Air.

Likewise, shedding light on Mudra, the Guruji said:"Vairochana has Dharmachara Mudra, Achovya has Bhumisparsha Mudra, while Ratnasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi have Varada Mudra, Dhyana Mudra and Abhaya Mudra respectively."

Vairochana is white in color, Achovya is blue while Ratnasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi are yellow, red and green respectively, said Prajwal Guruji and added:"As far as family is concerned, Vairochana is Buddha family, Achovya is Vajra family, whereas Ratnasambha, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi are Jewel, Lotus and Karma family.

The Pancha Buddha are not just historical deities to be worshipped, in practical Buddhist reality, they serve as a transformational framework for the humankind, the Guruji said and went on:"In Newar Buddhism, Pancha Buddha represents the transmutation of our deepest negative emotions (the five poisons) into the enlightened wisdom.

Likewise, the teaching presented a detailed and comprehensive description of the Directions, Wisdoms, Symbols, Vehicles, Chakras, Kleshas and Mandalas of the Pancha Buddha.

In discussing the history of Newar Buddhism in Nepal, Prajwal Guruji mentioned the visits of Vipaswi Buddha, Sikhi Buddha, Vishwobhu Buddha, Krakuchanda Buddha, Kashyapa Buddha and Kanakmuni Buddha to the Nepal Mandala.

Based on Swayambhu Purana, once upon a time, the Kathmandu valley was a huge lake, the Guruji told the zoom participants mentioning about Vipashwi Buddha's visit to Swayambhu and about Maha Manjushree striking the hill with his sword and releasing all the waters from the lake.

At the end of the teaching, Prajwal Guruji offered the Refuge dance as well as the Pancha Buddha sloka dance.

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Noted Tantric Vajracharya Guruji Visits Sammamish, WA for Tara Puja

Portland, Oct 24 (Nepal Oregon News): A comprehensive Green Tara Puja vidhi was conducted and completed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest at the residence of Purna Hira Tuladhar, Sachin Shakya and Nirala Shakya in Sammamish, WA on Saturday, Oct 24, 2026.

A Green Tara Puja is a devotional Buddhist ceremony and prayer ritual dedicated to Green Tara, the female Buddha of active compassion, wisdom and swift protection. The Arya Tara is also known as "mother of liberation" and represents the virtues of success in work and achievements.

Arya Tara embodies compassionate activity. She sits in a joyful ease pose with her right leg extended always ready to come to the aid of beings. Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha is the main Tara mantra.

Astamangala Puja, a foundational ceremony ritualized to invoke good fortune, eliminate spiritual obstacles and cultivate mindfulness, was also performed by Prajwal Guruji.

Saptavidhanuttara Puja (Sat Puja) was performed on the occasion. The religious rituals during the traditional ceremony involved a number of objects including the comprehensive arrangement of 108 butter lamps, 108 water bowls, 108 Tormas (miniature stupas) and 108 Gulupas (begging bowls). 

The elements of the offering were (1) Vandana (2) Pujana (3) Desana (4) Anumodana (5) Adhyesana (6) Yacana (7) Namana. 

In Newar Buddhism, Saptavidhanuttara Puja integrates elements of Sutra and Tantric traditions.

Meanwhile, writing on his social media platform on Oct 31, 2026, Sachin Shakya said:"With immense devotion, faith and gratitude, we performed Tara Puja at our home, seeking the divine blessings of Goddess Tara for peace, prosperity, protection, good health, and happiness for our family and loved ones."

Sachin further added in his Facebook post:"Our heartfelt thanks to GuruBa Mr Prajwal R Vajracharya, who traveled all the way from Portland to graciously conduct the Puja and bless us with his presence and guidance."

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Paritran Paath, Shira Daan Held in Memory of Late Amit Prabha Bajracharya

Portland, Oct 12 (Nepal Oregon News): Second anniversary of passing away of Amit Prabha Bajracharya was celebrated at Rama and Shashindra Bajracharya's residence in Eugene, Oregon.

Late Amit Prabha was the daughter of late Amogha Bajra Bajracharya, one of the renowned Buddhist scholars in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism and a famous and prominent Bajracharya Guruju of Nepal.

Second anniversary of her passing was celebrated with Paritran Path and Shira Daan. Paritran Path was chanted by Subin, Monti and Brian Bhante from Wat Buddha Oregon.

Wat Buddha Oregon is a traditional Thai-Lao Buddhist temple located in Turner, Oregon (Marion County).

Paritran Path is a revered Buddhist practice of reciting sacred verses and suttas in the Pali language to invoke protection, peace, healing and spiritual well-being.

Likewise, a Shira Daan was offered to Prajwal Vajracharya, chief priest at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, OR.

Sankalpa Puja was performed during the Shira Daan ritual. Fruits, raw rice, ginger, salt, turmeric, black lentils and beaten rice etc were offered to Prajwal Guruji by deceased's son Shashindra Bajracharya and daughter-in-law Rama Bajracharya. 

In Newar Buddhism, Shira Daan is a deeply significant ritual offering performed primarily during the death anniversaries. In  Sanskrit language, Shira means a pure mixture of staple raw foods and Daan means generosity. Shira Daan is performed to ensure a peaceful and comfortable heavenly journey for the deceased soul into afterlife. 

At the end of the event, a Panjaran (Panchadaan) was offered to Prajwal Vajracharya, Daya Shakya, Pradeep Bajracharya and Rabin Man Shakya by Shashindra and Rama.

Panchadaan means giving away five different kinds of alms, such as grains and fruits like rice, paddy, salt, peas and money to people from Vajracharya and Shakya communities.

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Classical Hindustani Music Concert Held at Vihara

Portland, Oct 15 (Nepal Oregon News): A powerful  Bansuri and clarinet performance by world famous flute master Steve Gorn and Tabla and esraj playing by renowned multi-instrumentalist Benjy Wertheimer was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland on Thursday, Oct 15, 2026.

Steve Gorn and Benjy Wertheimer offered an evening of Indian classical music to a wonderful enthusiastic audience.

The audience seemed deeply attuned to the combination of the artiste duo's instruments - the esraj and bansuri - as they blended together melodically as their musical evening unfolded.

The virtuoso duo began the evening melody Raga Bageshori and, after introducing the main themes with the esraj, Benjy switched to Tabla for a more rhythmic continuation of the piece.

Knowing that there has been not enough rain in Portland, Steve played the quintessential rainy season melody Raga Megha, attempting to bring some rains to this dry land.

This was followed by a new composition that brought together three Indian classical Ragas - Raga Malkauns, Chandrakauns and Raga Joga - all three blended together in a new and mysterious way.

The concert closed with an esraj - clarinet duet, a version of their signature piece Priyagitah, followed by a wonderful discussion with the audiences, allowing the audience to reflect on the nature of the music.

Later, Steve Gorn said:"It is always a  joy for me to play at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland. This wonderful Nepali temple setting is perfect for our meditative music."

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Baby Shower for Teya Organized

Portland, Oct 10 (Nepal Oregon News): A second baby shower event was organized at the Newar Buddhist temple in Portland on Saturday, Oct 10, 2026 for expressing excitement, extending blessings and wishing joy and happiness  to Prajwal - Teya family.

The baby shower event was participated by members of the Nepali community  in Portland and the Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Teya is expected to give birth to a baby daughter this time. When Teya was pregnant with baby son Dewa, the first baby shower was organized at the Forest Refuge, Damascus, OR in 2024.

The parents have already chosen the name for their future daughter - Sunyata. Speaking on the occasion, Prajwal Guruji said that Dewa means blessing and Sunyata refers to emptiness.

Prajwal Guruji chanted Tara mantra 'Om Tare Tuttare' as well as Harati Mata Mantra for twenty one times.

There is a tradition in Newar culture to offer Khen-Sagun and to feed pregnant mother with Dhau Baji (beaten rice with yogurt). So these rituals were performed by Uppa Shakya and Kusumabati Bajracharya.

The baby shower was followed by a Newah style 'potluck' dinner and fun games.

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Garbha Shodhana Puja: A Newar Buddhist Ritual for an Expecting Mother

Portland, Oct 5 (Nepal Oregon News): A Garbha Shodhana Puja for Teya Vajracharya was performed at the Vihara on Monday, Oct 5, 2026 by Prajwal Guruji. Teya's second pregnancy is running onto 7th month.

Garbha Shodhana Puja is a traditional Newar Buddhist spiritual and religious ritual performed for expecting mothers.

Garbha Shodhana Puja is described as a spiritual and religious ritual aimed at blessing the expectant mother and her unborn baby with health, purity and intelligence.

In Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, lifecycle rituals surrounding birth, pregnancy and birthdays etc carry profound religious and cultural weight, marking important milestones in a human being's spiritual journey.

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Weekly programs continue

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

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In Vajrayana Buddhism, a Dakini is the Ultimate Personification of Fierce Feminine Wisdom: Prajwal Vajracharya

Four-week Teaching Course on 'Embodiment of the Dakini Praise' Wraps Up

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Sept 20 (Nepal Oregon News): A four-week teaching course on 'Embodiment of the Dakini Praise' wrapped up on Sunday, Sept 20, 2026 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. It is to be noted that the four-week training kicked off on Sunday, Aug 30, 2026 at the Vihara.

Led by 35th-generation Vajrayana priest Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, the educational and spiritual course brought together almost two dozen participants across both in-person and virtual zoom sessions. Ed Zaron, Jamie Dawson, Allie White, Susan Morningstar, Ashley Low, Gabriel Quitslund, Teya De Sesa, Naveena Shakya, Chaney Connor, Mathew Costagno and Clay Stenhilbur were in-person participants. 10 others  including Meadow Lisa Wong and Dr Tina Ho from Hong Kong took part at the teaching course on zoom. 

The themes of teaching course were Nairatma, Khadgayogini, Akashyogini and Vajrayogini. Every week was devoted to one of the Dakinis. The two-hour weekly sessions were split into distinct theoretical and practical components. 

The first introductory week focused extensively on the Nairatma charya sloka (sacred dance verses) followed by further instructions and lessons on Khadgayogini sloka, Akashyogini sloka and Vajrayogini sloka.

During the teaching, Prajwal Guruji emphasized on the essence of embodiment of Dakini praise and said:"In Vajrayana Buddhism, a Dakini is the ultimate personification of fierce feminine wisdom and the ultimate energy of enlightenment."

Throwing light on sky dancer, Prajwal - who is a ritual practitioner of Mandalas, Mantras and Charya Dances - stated:"Often translated as 'sky dancer', a Dakini represents a mind completely free from conceptual limitations, playfully navigating the vast space of emptiness."

Prajwal, one of the seniormost Charya Nritya pedagogues in the world, went on saying:"Rather than a passive goddess, the Dakini is a dynamic catalyst for spiritual transformation to aggressively shatter a practitioner's ego, pride and conventional illusions."

While underscoring religious and spiritual  importance of a Dakini, the Guruji said:"She manifests simultaneously across multiple dimensions - as a historical female master, as a meditation deity embodying pure awareness and as the sudden, sharp flash of intuitive insight that cuts through mental chatter."

The Guruji expressed the view:"Ultimately, to encounter a Dakini is to confront the raw, unconditioned nature of one's own mind, transforming everyday obstacles and negative emotions into the very fuel for sudden awakening."

The immersive series ran through its planned four-week curriculum, guiding practitioners through the union of sacred Buddhist texts, hand and finger Mudras and somatic movement.

During the classes, every week, Prajwal Guruji focused on Nairatma sloka, Khadgayogini sloka, Akashyogini sloka and Vajrayogini sloka one by one, chanting them in Sanskrit and breaking down meanings of the different Deity Slokas word by word.

The four-week classes served as a foundational step for deeper engagement with the Vajrayana path, particularly the practices that awaken the qualities symbolized by the Dakinis.

The spiritual dance teaching was accompanied by formal Refuge practice and the ritual 16 offering goddess dances every week followed by the respective Dakini charya nritya sloka.

The teaching attempted to deepen understanding of Nairatma, Khadgayogini, Akashyogini and Vajrayogini on the participants. At the end of each class, the Guruji answered to the questions of the in-person and zoom participants.

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Zoom Teaching on 'Mandala of Life in Charya Nritya' Hosted by Hong Kong Sangha

Portland, Sept 4 (Nepal Oregon News): A zoom teaching on 'Mandala of Life in Charya Nritya' by Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA was hosted by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association on Friday, Sept 4, 2026.

Prajwal Guruji started the zoom teaching by chanting the Mandala offering.

Addressing the zoom teaching, Prajwal Guruji who is chief pujari  at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, said:"In Charya Nritya - a thousand year old sacred dance tradition of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism - the concept of the Mandala of Life represents both a philosophical teaching on human existence and the literal embodiment of the universe within the practitioner's physical body."

Defining the Mandala, the Guruji stated:"A Mandala is a spiritual geometric design symbolizing the universe, unity and balance. Derived from Sanskrit word for 'circle', Mandala holds deep spiritual significance."

Life itself functions as a living dynamic Mandala, said the Guruji adding "We should not just view Mandala as merely a static painting or sand art."

Comparing body and Mandala, Prajwal Guruji - a ritual master - said:"In Vajrayana Buddhist philosophy, your physical body is viewed as a sacred microcosm of the universe or a body Mandala."

Discussing the inter-relation between Mudra and Mandala, the senior Charya Nritya teacher  said:"Through precise Mudras (hand gestures), steps and postures, a Charya dancer animates this inner Mandala. Each finger corresponds to a cosmic element activating these energies internally."

The Guruji further stressed:"By chanting and moving, the practitioners transition from their ordinary self to embody the awakened characteristics of a Tantric deity, turning the physical body into a direct expression of enlightened awareness."

The Mandala of Life serves as a profound metaphor for how human beings navigate the world, added the Guruji.

Prajwal, an authentic Newar Buddhist priest, went on saying:"Just as a traditional Mandala radiates outward from a single, concentrated center point, human life unfolds from our core inner self into the vast, complex experience of the external world."

Furthermore, the Guruji shared:"The balanced layers and intricate geometric patterns of a Mandala reflect how deeply connected everything in existence is - our actions, native and the spiritual realm."

Prajwal Guruji, a Buddhist scholar, emphasized further:"A core aspect of Newar Buddhist practice involves the meticulous creation and eventual sweeping away of sand Mandalas. In the context of life, this teaches the vital lesson of impermanence."

The Guruji further went on saying:"All moments - whether joyful or painful - are temporary and must be met with grace."

The Guruji wrapped up the zoom teaching saying:"Viewing life through this lens encourages to find their way back to their inner peace and center, even when navigating external chaos."

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

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Interfaith Vigil in Portland, USA Mourns Victims of Catastrophic Floods in Nepal

Portland, Sept 20 (Nepal Oregon News): A candle light vigil Sunday evening on Sept 20, 2026 at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland, Oregon honored those  killed and missing after flash floods in Nepal.

A catastrophic cross-border flash flood and mudslide hit the Nepal-China border on Aug 26, 2026 killing 1450, injuring 9300 with 4700 people still missing.

The flood has wreaked havoc on people, destroyed property, environment, economy, energy, education, infrastructure, tourism and livelihood.

The interfaith vigil was organized by Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) and was attended by over 100 Nepalese Oregonians and interfaith representatives.

It was a community gathering where people of diverse religious backgrounds met at downtown Portland, USA to collectively grieve, pray and show solidarity for the thousands of people affected by devastating August 2026 floods in Nepal.

The vigil held in Portland offered a message of hope and solidarity for people thousands of miles away. The vigil which was conducted by community leader Ganga Sharma was addressed by Ekraj Sharma, president of Nepali Association of Oregon.

Sangha Member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, a Newar Buddhist monastery in Portland, Dechen Lhamo offered a Native American flute playing on Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva.

Avalokiteshvara is the revered white Bodhisattva of universal compassion, a primary deity in the Newar Buddhist tradition. The deity embodies compassion in its most recognizable form, as gentleness, softness and kindness.

Prajwal Vajracharya, chief priest at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, chanted a peace prayer "Swostha Vakya" wishing for 'Uddhar' of all sentient beings. Vajracharya also chanted Durgati Parishodhana Dharani in memory of the flood victims.

Bharat Baskota, a Hindu devotee and also former president of Nepali Association of Oregon recited Hindu chanting peace prayer in Sanskrit.

Pastor Brian Huffman of Cornerstone Apostolic Church from Hillsboro also chanted a peace prayer for Nepal's flood victims.

Community member Mamta Singa from Hindi Sangam also expressed words of condolences. Rakesh Philbin, NAO treasurer offered a vocal rendition of heart-touching and emotional Nepali song 'Timilai' which was also collectively performed by all the attendees of the candle-light vigil.  

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Joshua-Stormi Wedding Ritualized as per Newar Buddhist Tradition at Vihara

Portland, Sept 16 (Nepal Oregon News): A marriage ceremony of Joshua Proto and Stormi Hoebelheinrich was solemnized on Wednesday, Sept 16, 2026 at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Joshua is a seasoned singer of Charya Nritya giti and, as the primary singer at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, he is responsible for accompanying Prajwal Guruji and other Charya Nritya dancers of Dance Mandal USA in over 35 Charya songs.

It may be a coincidence, but Joshua and Stormi met each other for the first time in Japan twelve years ago. They have been living together ever since.

Joshua and Stormi are American couple but their wedding rituals were performed at the Vihara by 35th-generation Vajrayana priest Prajwal Vajracharya as per Newar Buddhist traditions.

Joshua is the son of Ron Proto and Ami Bailey, while Stormy is the daughter of Jarret and Stacie Hoebelheinrich.

There were about 90 guests at the wedding ceremony at the Vihara. When bride Stormi and groom Joshua entered the ritual space inside the temple, Prajwal Guruji guided them through a symbolic purification of their body, mind and speech during the Puja.

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

Bride Stormi wore a red color Lahanga embroidered with gold thread and dotted with sequins, adorned with Luswan (a jewelry made of gold to be put on bride's head during Newar wedding ceremony).

Newar style wedding rituals are unique in its culture and traditions. Jwola Nhayakan Shinhamu was an interesting aspect of the wedding ceremony in which priest Prajwal Guruji reflected the good energy created during the ritual to bride Stormi and groom Joshua.

Kisli was prepared with rice, flowers, coins and betel nuts, while Stormi and Joshua 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.

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. Guruji says that the circling binds their energies together.

After that, the bride and 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.

Soon after, it was time for Kanya Daan (My daughter is your daughter). The bride's parent gave her daughter to the groom.

At the same time, under Shifala Lwakegu ritual, the heads of the bride and groom were banged together and groom's grand mother poured rice, flowers and fruits from Pathi over their heads.

Saha-Bhojan (feast together in the same plate) was offered to the bride and groom. 

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Panjaran (Panchadan) Observed in Portland, USA

Portland, Sept 9 (Nepal Oregon News): Newar Vajrayana Buddhist festival Panjaran (Panchadan) was observed at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Wednesday, Sept 9, 2029.

Panjaran is also Panchadan which means  giving away five different kinds of alms, such as, grains and fruits like rice, paddy, salt, peas, bananas, radish etc to people from Vajracharya and Shakya communities.

The Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara - Newar Vajrayana Buddhists as well as Americans Buddhists were given auspicious alms by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Daan Gatha was recited by the Panjaran participants.

Pradeep Bajracharya, Rabin Man Shakya, Joshua Proto, Ashley Low and Mathew Costagno were given the auspicious alms.

At the end of the Panchadan ceremony, a vegan kheer lunch was offered to the Panjaran participants by Prajwal Guruji. 

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Wedding Ceremony Solemnized in New Jersey

Portland, Sept 26 (nepal Oregon News): The marriage ceremony of Samana Shakya and Gustavo Castellanos was solemnized on Sunday, Sept 26, 2026 in New Jersey, USA.

The marriage rituals were chanted by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Gurumandala Puja and other Pujas were performed by Prajwal Guruji on the occasion.

Samana is the daughter of Sagar Shakya and Shashi Kala Shakya, whereas Gustavo (Colombian American) is the son of Luis Castellanos and Martha Vinasco.

In a short wedding note that was provided to Nepal Oregon News, Samana Shakya, the bride said:"Our story started in the halls of Aviation High School, long before we knew where life would take us. Over the past 10 years, we've grown up together -- through late-night studying, college milestones, and finding our paths as Mechanical Engineers."

Samana further went on saying:"What began as young love has turned into a partnership built on support, laughter and shared dreams. Now, we're beginning our next chapter as a married couple."  

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Bhawana Puja Performed

Portland, Sept 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A Bhawana Puja was performed by Prajwal Guruji at Srijana Sthapit and Sunil Tamrakar's house in Portland in memory of their pet dog - Chipu Raja. Durgati Parishodhana Paath was also chanted by the Guruji during the rituals.

Meanwhile, writing on her social media platform on Sept 30, 2026, Srijana Sthapit said:"We lost our dear Chipu Raja. We wanted to honor your life, your soul and all the love you gave us. You may no longer be here beside us, but you will always be part of our family and in our hearts. We love you and miss you always.

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Weekly Programs Continue

In September, as usual and as always, Dharani chanting on zoom was conducted once a week every Tuesday evening. Similarly, Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajan singing practice were held on each Wednesday evening. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed in the mornings every Friday. Naamsangiti chanting was performed on zoom during the Gunla month and also once every Full Moon Day. 

(Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in America, is also president of Newah American Buddhist Association in Portland, USA.)

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NRNA - USA - Oregon State Chapter Holds Candle-light Vigil at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA in Memory of Lives Lost during Catastrophic Floods in Nepal

Buddha, Bodhisattvas's Mantra and Dharanipada, Durgati Parishodhana Paath Chanted by Prajwal Vajracharya, chief priest of  Newar Buddhist Vihara in Portland

Rabin Man Shakya

Candle-light vigil participants at the condolence gathering organized by NRNA - USA - Oregon State Chapter at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Sunday, Aug 30, 2026.

Portland, Aug 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A catastrophic cross-border flash flood and mudslide hit the Nepal-China border on Wednesday, Aug 26, 2026 killing hundreds of people and leaving thousands of others missing. The flood has wreaked havoc on people, destroyed property, environment, economy, energy, education, infrastructure, tourism and livelihood.

The disaster has created a massive humanitarian crisis, sweeping away entire riverside settlements, cutting off key transit routes, and trapping a high number of foreign tourists and pilgrims.

The flood has caused extensive damage in Nuwakot, Dhading and  Rasuwa, particularly in the Timure and Syafrubesi areas. It has washed away settlements and damaged several hydropower infrastructures including Chilime Hydropower Project.

Infrastructure damage has been extensive, with 19 motorable bridges destroyed and 40 kilometers of paved highway rendered impassable,  severing transportation routes and complicating rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, a candle-light  vigil was held at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Sunday, Aug 30, 2026 in memory of lives lost during recent catastrophic floods in Nepal. The vigil was organized by NRNA - USA - Oregon State Chapter. One minute silence was observed at the beginning of the vigil.

Buddha, Bodhisattvas's Mantra and Dharanipada as well as Durgati Parishodhana Paath were chanted by chief priest of the Vihara Prajwal Vajracharya.

Sangha member of the Vihara Dechen Lhamo played a melancholic music tune on the flute in memory of lives lost during the catastrophic floods.

President of NRNA-USA-Oregon Chapter Shuddhodan Ranjit said:"It is very sad and heart breaking to hear the news about the devastating flash floods in our beloved country - Nepal."

Ranjit added:"Let us all pray for Nepal and for the safety and wellbeing of our  people especially the people affected by this tragedy. May everyone stay safe, and may those who have lost    loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult time.""

President of Nepa Chhen, a Nepali nonprofit in Portland, Daya Shakya expressed his belief on the link between the sweating of Kavre Palanchowk Bhagavati, tears falling down from the eyes of Living Goddess Kumari and the catastrophic flood.

Founder president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Raju Mali, former NAO presidents Bharat Baskota, Ganga Sharma and former NAO secretary Punam Glee expressed sorrow over precious lives lost and stressed the need for standing together in solidarity with our homeland - Nepal during this heartbreaking time and emphasized the need for community fund raising for Nepal.

The candle-light vigil at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland  was attended by 70 Nepalese Portlanders and some American Buddhists who are the Sangha members of the Vihara.

Buddha, Bodhisattvas's Mantra and Dharani Pada as well as Durgati Parishodhan Paath were chanted by chief priest of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA at the candle-light vigil.

Gone but not forgotten: Glowing tributes paid by Nepalese diaspora to the souls of those who perished in the flash floods in Nepal on Aug 26, 2026 at a candle-light vigil organized by NRNA - USA - Oregon State Chapter at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA.

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Prema Dasara's 21 Tara Dance Offering Blooms at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara

Prema Dasara of Tara Dhatu explaining the audience at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA about the purpose and activities of her organization during '21 Tara Dance Offering' event  on Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026.

Portland, Aug19 (Nepal Oregon News): An amazing '21 Tara Dance Offering' by Prema Dasara's team was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026. Prajwal Vajracharya gave a brief introduction of Prema Dasara to the audience.

The Mandala dance of 21 Praises of Tara is a ritual dance offered worldwide as a prayer of peace, protection, wisdom and capability. 

The practices often bridge traditional Charya dance elements originating from Nepal with international sacred movement communities

Prior to the 21 Tara Dance, 'Four Yogini Mandala Formation' Charya dance was presented by Myri Naves, Carey Avery, Adrianne Smith and Min Hyung, students of Helen Appell, who is the founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

'21 Tara Dance Offering' is based on a Tibetan Buddhist practice honoring the twenty-one enlightened qualities of the female Buddha Tara. 

The 21 Taras are powerful manifestations of the female Buddha of compassion, originating from the foundational Buddhist prayer, 'the praises to the Twenty-one Taras'. 

 Dancers embody Tara's qualities through their dance, each representing a different form of awakened energy. 

It is performed publicly as an offering dedicated to the welfare of all beings. Bokar Rinpoche declared it a vehicle of liberation. For the audience it can bring deep healing and an experience of freedom from self obsession.

On the occasion, addressing the audience, Prema Dasara said:"The purpose of Tara Dhatu is to inspire and uplift, inviting everyone to experience the power of their own human potential through sacred music and dance."

Prema also shared her experience about her travels to different countries and interactions with spiritual luminaries and religious dignitaries.

Prema Dasara is an international spiritual teacher, performer, and the founder and creative director of Tara Dhatu, an organization dedicated to uplifting humanity through sacred music and dance.

Her organization 'Tara Dhatu' focuses on empowering people globally through sacred Buddhist dance, Mudras and music.

Prema is best known for the Mandala Dance of the 21 Praises of Tara in 1986. Prema has traveled the world for over 30 years teaching this dance to thousands of people.

She trained extensively in Asia with masters of sacred dance from Nepal, India, Tibet (China) and Bali.

While in Nepal, she trained extensively with prominent Buddhist scholar late Ratna Kaji Vajracharya, father of Prajwal Guruji.

She has authored books such as 'Dancing Tara: A Manual of Practice.'

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Four-week Teaching on 'Embodiment of the Dakini Praise' Kicks Off

Portland Aug 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A four-week teaching on 'Embodiment of the Dakini Praise' kicked off on Sunday, Aug 30, 2026 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA. The teaching is scheduled to conclude on Sept 20, 2026.

Eleven participants took part in person at the Vihara, while 10 others on the zoom.

The two-hour teaching (once a week) is divided into two parts: theoretical and practical.

The teaching event is accompanied by Refuge and 16 offering goddess dance.

Addressing the participants of the teaching event, Prajwal Guruji said:" A Dakini is a sacred female spirit, deity, or enlightened energy who represents wisdom, spiritual transformation and the dynamic feminine principle."

The first day teaching of the four-week course was devoted to 'Nairatma' charya nritya sloka.

Prajwal Guruji, a 35th-generation Vajrayana priest, chanted the Nairatma charya dance sloka in Sanskrit and explained the meaning of the sloka word by word.

Underscoring the importance of deity Nairatma, Prajwal Guruji said:"Nairatma is the egoless yogini, a fully enlightened female Buddha, the source of all creations, the formless infinite reality from which all visible forms arise."

In fact, Charya nritya is based on a 1000-year old Newar Buddhist tradition in Nepal, Prajwal Guruji shared with the participants.

He went on saying:"Nairatma is another name for emptiness or Sunyata. She is dark blue in color, representing the vast emptiness of the midnight sky. She 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."

Prajwal Guruji further added:"The Nairatma charya dance specifically symbolizes spontaneous wisdom and emptiness, often depicted in a yogic union with her consort: the semi-wrathful Buddha Hevajra."

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Gun Punhi (Kwati Punhi) Celebrated in Portland, USA

Portland, Aug 28 (Nepal Oregon News): Gun Punhi,  one of the important Full Moon Days in Newar Buddhism, was celebrated at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Friday, Aug 28 2026.

A group Naamsangiti recitation was held in the morning of the Gun Punhi immediately after the Charya Giti singing practice.

The Manjushree Naamsangiti recitation was led by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and was also chanted by Meadow Lisa Wong, Teya De Sesa, Jennifer Koascis, Gabriel Quitslund, Allie White, Mathew Castagno, Naveena Shakya and Rabin Man Shakya.

Ten other people including Dr Tina Ho from Hong Kong took part at the Naamsangiti recitation on the zoom.

Gun Punhi is also called Kwati Punhi. Kwati is a soup of different beans, and Punhi means the Full Moon Day. On this auspicious full moon day, the Newah people in the Kathmandu valley traditionally prepare and cook the Kwati soup.

The ingredients used in cooking Kwati soup are: kidney beans, black-eyed peas, chick peas, soya beans, mung beans, green beans, black beans and white beans.

The Kwati soup was offered to the Naamsangiti participants by Prajwal Guruji.

The Gun Punhi celebration was also attended by Helen Appell, founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

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Vihara's Team Takes Part at InterFaith Event

Portland, Aug 22 (Nepal Oregon News): Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara,  along with other Sangha members Mathew Castagno, Gabriel Quitslund, Anastasia Roderick, Casey Redman, Ashley Low Jennifer Koascis and Teya De Sesa participated at the 'World Chant for Peace' event hosted by Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple in Portland on Saturday, Aug 22, 2026.

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara was among other Buddhist and non-Buddhist community organizations that took part at the 'World Chant for Peace' event.

On the occasion, Refuge Dance and Avalokiteshvara Charya dance were brilliantly performed by Prajwal Vajracharya and other Sangha members. Charya Nritya is an essential part of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism.

During the Charya Nritya presentations, Prajwal Guruji also explained the audience about the meaning and relevance of Charya dances: Refuge dance and Avalokiteshvara charya dance.

Elucidating the meaning of Refuge dance, the Guruji said that it 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.

Touching on Avalokiteshvara charya dance, the veteran Charya guru said:"Avalokiteshvara is the embodiment of universal compassion, and has the softest, gentlest and most fluid of dances, represented in the charya nritya tradition. Avalokiteshvara charya nritya is an ancient form of deity yoga meditation for physical transformation, refinement  of emotions."

The purpose of Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple, which was established in 2011 in Portland, is to provide a refuge of stillness and peace in a busy urban environment, to practice and share Buddhist teachings, and to cultivate community, compassion and wisdom.

The 12-hour 'World Chant for Peace' was celebrated with the strength and diversity of various religious communities of Portland.

In a statement about 'World Chant for Peace', Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple said:"Awake with a passion for inner and global transformation, this 12-hour chanting vigil is a celebration of our spiritual aspirations to see the sacred in every person, and to live Unconditional Love."

The statement further added:"We form one community and join our voices together. Chanting is spiritually potent medicine. It aligns heart and mind, connects us to spirit and radiates waves of prayer and blessings into the world."

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Portland Buddha Festival Organized at Dharma Rain Zen Center

Portland, Aug 15 (Nepal Oregon News): A Buddhist Festival was organized on Saturday, Aug 15, 2026 by Dharma Rain Zen Center on its 14 acre park-like property in Portland. About 20 Buddhist centers and communities took part at the Buddhist Festival.

A procession of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and other organizations walked through around the Festival space. During the procession, Prajwal Vajracharya offered the ringing of the bell, shaking of the Vajra and chanting of Tantric Buddhist prayer for good of all sentient beings.

On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji and other Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara performed Refuge charya dance.

The park of Dharma Rain Zen Center was decorated with 20 different booths and tables hosted by various Buddhist monasteries and institutions.

The Nritya Mandala Mahavihara also hosted a beautiful booth at the event where Prajwal Guruji and other Sangha members provided information  about the contributions the Mahavihara makes to promote Newar Buddhist heritage in USA.

The activities of the Festival Day were: chanting and singing, ceremonial practices, dances, mindfulness activities and children's program.

Hosting a workshop on the occasion, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya provided detailed information about Newar Buddhism and history of Vajracharyas in Nepal to the participants of the Portland Buddhist Festival.

Prajwal Guruji said:"Newar Buddhism is considered to be the oldest known extant form of Buddhist practices. It has been preserved in two dedicated Newar family castes - the Vajracharyas and the Shakyas."

The Guruji further observed:"In Newar Buddhism, enlightenment  and full understanding of the Buddhist teachings of transformation of mind, entails singing and dancing."

Throwing light on the Vajracharyas of Nepal, the Guruji said that the word Vajracharya is the combination of two words: Vajra (thunderbolt) and Acharya (teacher), meaning the Vajra Master.

A Vajracharya is a priest among the Newar communities of Nepal and a revered teacher  who is highly attained in Vajrayana practices and rituals, Prajwal Guruji added.

He further shared:"The Vajracharya is the highest ranking of the Newar castes. The Vajracharya boy goes through a ritualistic process of initiations known as Chudakarma, Acharyabhisek and Diksha, including shaving off the head as the Buddha, in tradition of monks since the time of the Buddha."

Prajwal Guruji  also mentioned:"Still today, many of the Buddhist scholars in Nepal belong to Vajracharyas and Shakyas. There were many legendary Vajracharya priests (Mahasiddhas) from different parts of the Kathmandu valley."

Dharma Rain Zen Center is a Soto Zen Buddhist community in Portland dedicated to supporting each other in the practice of meditation and the study of Buddhist teachings. Center's shared intention is to cultivate compassion, love and wisdom in our own lives and in the larger community in which we live.

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Durgati Parishodhana Dharani Chanted for late Poet Durga Lal Shrestha

Portland, Aug 23 (Nepal Oregon News): A memorial service was organized at Nekusing Memorial Theater on Sunday, Aug 23, 2026 by Nepa Chhen, a Nepali non-profit in Portland, USA for paying glowing tributes and homage to late Nepal Bhasa poet Durga Lal Shrestha.

The memorial service was attended by more than 25 Newah community members including some American Buddhists who are     the Sangha members  of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA.

A one-minute silence was observed at the beginning of the condolence meeting in memory of the iconic Nepal Bhasa poet.

Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajracharya priest and Portland's most senior and octogenarian lady Devi Laxmi Maharjan paid tributes to late Shrestha  by offering flowers and Khada. 

After that, all the participants of the condolence-gathering in Portland offered flowers and sacred Khada one by one on the portrait of late Durga Lal, paying homage to the late poet.

Further, Durgati Parishodhana Dharani, which was led by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, was chanted by all the attendees of the memorial service. Prajwal Guruji also explained the meaning of Durgati Parishodhana Dharani to the participants of the gathering.

A poem entitled "Remembering Janakavi Durga Lal Shrestha" penned down by Vihara's Sangha member Naveena Shakya was also read out at the memorial service.

A popular song "Phoolko Aankhama Phoolai Sansar" written by late Durga Lal was also performed by Anastasia Roderick and Niva Maharjan (students of Nepal Bhasa classes run by Kritish Rajbhandari). The song was then chorused by all the participants of the gathering.

Speaking on the occasion, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland Prajwal Vajracharya said:"Late Shrestha was one of Nepal's most celebrated poets, lyricists and cultural icons."

President of Nepa Chhen Daya Shakya, vice president Rabin Man Shakya, member Kritish Rajbhandari and taekwondo expert Diwakar  Maharjan threw light on the literary contributions of late poet Durga Lal.

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Buddhist Deities Embody Hand Mudras for Purity, Wisdom, Says Prajwal Vajracharya

Portland Aug 21 (Nepal Oregon News): Body movement and Mudras are highly important tools used to connect physical body with the mind and energy pathways.

Prajwal Vajracharya, a prominent Newar Vajrayana Buddhist priest in USA, said this while addressing an opening ceremony at the 5-day North Star Campout on Friday, Aug 21 in Sammamish, WA.

Body movement and Mudras are crucial in Charya Nritya, said Prajwal Guruji adding that the Buddhist deities embody hand Mudras for purity, power and wisdom.

Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"Applying the appropriate gesture can heal the organs, tissues, bones and nerves of the body."

Prajwal Guruji, who is a well-known charya dancer and international teacher, said:"The sacred dance of the Buddhist priests of Nepal is a dynamic yogic discipline for healing and transformation."

Prajwal Guruji's presentation explained that hand Mudras represent different energies and moods of deities. He discussed that 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."

Guruji Prajwal gave detailed and comprehensive accounts of Karma Mudra, Dharma Mudra and Sahaj Sundari Mudra. He threw light on Vajra Mudra, Vitarka Mudra, Dharma Chakra Mudra, Abhaya Mudra and specific gestures.

The North Star Approaches event was also addressed by Lama Joshua Proto and Hawk Grubb who are the Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

The North Star Approach focuses on aligning an entire organization or strategy around a single, central goal or metric.

Sammamish is a small city in King County, Washington, located on a plateau 20 mile east of Seattle.

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Nava Graha Puja Ritualized at Vihara for Dechen and Allie

Portland, Aug 24 (Nepal Oregon News): A Nava Graha Puja was performed with right vidhi-vidhan (appropriate rituals) at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland on Monday by Prajwal Vajracharya, a priest from one of the Vajrayana Buddhist lineages of Nepal.

The Nava Graha Puja was ritualized for Sangha members of the Vihara Dechen Lhamo and Allie White. The purpose of the Nava Graha Puja is to remove obstacles and to do away with negative effects in life.

Prajwal Guruji says:"Nava Graha is a Sanskrit word in which Nava means nine and Graha refers to planet. In Nepalese astrology, there are nine planets which have impacts on human lives. Planets in the horoscope have configurations which can create obstacles in life called Nava Graha Dasa."

The Guruji added:"Though the planets have their effects, these malefic Dasas or negative effects can be minimized by performing the Nava Graha Puja (worship of nine planets).

He went on saying:"Nava Graha Puja engages the nine planets in a square Mandala with the Sun in the center, and in the process of acknowledging and honoring each of the planet, clears the cause of suffering related to each."

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Ihi Rituals Held at Vihara

Portland, Aug 25 (Nepal Oregon News): Ihi rituals of Clarissa Tyata  was held at the Vihara on Tuesday, Aug 25, 2026 by chief priest Prajwal Vajracharya. Clarissa is the daughter of Rabina Maharjan.

The Ihi rituals has been in practice since hundreds of years. The Ihi ceremony is an important part of the Newar tradition where the young pre-adolescent girl make a commitment to the Bel fruit (wood apple), says Prajwal Guruji.

The Bel fruit has a peculiar quality of remaining fresh forever and healthy and long-lasting. Wood apple can bring conscious mind, added the Guruji. 

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in USA. He is president of Newah American Buddhist Association - NABA in Portland. He is also vice president of Nepa Chhen, a Nepali nonprofit in Portland, media director of NRNA-USA-Oregon State Chapter and a Life Member of World Newah Organization.) 

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