Buddha Jayanti Observed at Vihara with Various Programs

A Celebration of Buddhist Heritage

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, May 1, (Nepal Oregon News): Buddha Jayanti also known as Buddha Purnima and Swan Ya Punhi is the most important and sacred festival in Buddhist tradition, celebrating the birth, enlightenment (Nirvana), and passing (Mahaparinirvana) of Lord Gautama Buddha. It falls on the full moon day of the month of Baisakh.

A vibrant Buddhist procession with a number of Sangha members and Nepali community activists was taken out from local landmark Laurelhurst Park to the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Immediately after the procession, the participants started to give a baby Buddha bath before entering the temple. This beautiful act of pouring water over the little baby Buddha statue symbolizes the purification of one's own heart and mind from greed, anger and ignorance.

108 butter lamps were illuminated to symbolize the dispelling of darkness, accompanied by a meditative Refuge dance (a performance of Buddha Bandana Dance through Charya Nritya) was performed 108 times continuously by the American and Nepali devotees.

Also, to mark the occasion, Mahamanjushree Naamsangiti was chanted by Prajwal Vajracharya along with other participants of the celebration.

Speaking on the occasion, president of Nepa Chhen - a Nepali nonprofit in Portland - Daya Shakya threw light on the history and activities of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Likewise, a brilliant presentation on "Lumbini - Birth Place of Buddha" was made by Shreya Shrestha, an architect. She analyzed various historical facts to prove that Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal. 

An interesting part of the program was the question - answer episode between Daya Shakya and Prajwal Vajracharya in which the Guruji shed light on various aspects and importance of morning and rituals at the Vihara. The Guruji also elaborated on distinctive ritual practice of Newar Buddhism.

Similarly, a number of Buddha Bhajan songs in Nepal Bhasa (the language of Newar people) namely Jaya Namo Shree, Najato, Tri Ratna Mhasika and Anitya Lumankegu were presented by Joshua Proto, Casey Redman, Ashley Low, Teya Vajracharya and Matt Costagno.

Sangha member Dechen Lhamo enthralled the audience with flute playing.

Sangha member Naveena Shakya recited a poem in Nepali language "Buddha Aau Timi Pheri" (Buddha, Please Come Again).

On the occasion, Pancha Buddha Charya Dance was performed by Prajwal Vajracharya, Corinne Nakamura, Anastasia Roderick and Joshua Proto. 

The Buddha Jayanti celebration was followed by a vegetarian potluck dinner. 

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Six-week Foundational Course on Charya Dance Wraps up

Portland, May 10 (Nepal Oregon News): A six-week long - Foundational Charya Nritya Teaching Series - which was organized every Sunday at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland from April 5, 2026 was wrapped up on May 10, 2026.

Wrapping up the six-week foundational course, Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Vajracharya priest said this is the foundation and pre-requisite for learning other deity dances.

The foundational course laid the groundwork for all to-be-continued studies in the tradition of sacred Buddhist Charya dances of Nepal, Prajwal Guruji told the participants in his concluding remarks.

The Guruji extended congratulations to the Charya Nritya course participants for successfully completing the foundational class.

The Guruji went on saying:"You learnt the history of this ancient practice. You also studied how to train  your bodies in the movements, exercises, hand and foot mudras, and techniques that are the foundations of Charya dance and practice the Refuge and the Sixteen Offering Goddess dances."

Prajwal Guruji further reminded the course participants:"You don't practice charya as a form of entertainment. But you do it as a form of spiritual movement, as meditation, as prayer, as Sadhana."

Matt Costagno, Dira Osland, Hank Loos, Clay Stenhilbur, Hawk Grubb, Ashley Low, Jennifer Pepper Koscis, Susan Morningstar, Lisa Ovelar and Naveena Shakya were the participants of the Six-week Foundational Charya Dance.

Two of the participants shared their views about the course:

Ashley Low: "The Foundations of Charya Nritya class was a wonderful introduction to the sacred dance of Newar Buddhism. Prajwal's lectures connected us to this sacred dance traditions and its history in Nepal, its significance within Newar Buddhism, and the deeper meaning of every element in the dances we practiced. His dance teaching was wisdom through movement. It was a gift to learn from such a master , thank you, Prajwal."

Naveena Shakya: "From this foundational Charya class, I got an opportunity to acquire more information about Newar Buddhism and Charya Nritya. Thank you so much Prajwal Guruju for teaching those ancient and medieval Charya steps. I learnt that mindfulness practices are very important to be happy and peaceful in your life. I am grateful to Joshua and Stacie and to all the fellow participants as well."

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Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association Celebrates International Dance Day

International Dance Day was celebrated by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) on the zoom as well as live at the Portland Baha on Friday, May 1, 2026.

The world famous day in the field of dance and culture was observed by HKBSA in collaboration with the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara with the presentation of several Newar Buddhist Charya dances online as well as live at the Vihara in Portland.

The International Dance Day was created and proclaimed by the Dance Committee of the International Theater Institute  (ITI), the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO.

Dr Tina Ho, who was the master of ceremony at the event, said:"The Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association has been working hand in hand with the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara  to enhance and promote the Newar Buddhist Charya dances in the world."

The International Dance Day event kicked off with Avalokiteshvara Sloka charya dance which was performed by Joanna Lai, Pamela Chan, Fiona Yiu and Suen Tan Mei. Avalokiteshvara also known as Guan Yin  or Chenrezig, is widely beloved throughout the Buddhist world. The deity embodies the beauty of universal compassion in its most accessible and recognizable forms: softness, kindness and gentleness.

After that, Vasundhara Charya Nritya was presented by Shira Chan. Vasundhara is the Goddess of Harvest, the Earth Mother and nurtures all her children. Golden-yellow, like the element Earth, she is adorned with jewels and ornaments, symbolizing her association with wealth and abundance.

Likewise, Kurukulla Charya dance was demonstrated by Sin Yin Leung. Kurukulla is a female Tantric deity in Vajrayana Buddhism associated with magnetizing enchantment and spiritual power. She is often depicted in red, symbolizing passion and transformation, and holds a flower, bow and arrow, representing attraction and influence.

Similarly, Arya Tara charya dance was offered on the zoom by Patty Chan. Arya Tara is green and embodies compassionate activity. The deity 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.

Furthermore, Vajrasattva Charya Dance was put on the stage 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.

Meanwhile, Vajrayogini charya dance was a beautifully choreographed performance by Dr Tina Ho. Vajrayogini is a primary female Buddha. She is semi-wrathful, bright and dances joyfully, without shame or fear, glorifying in her femaleness. She drinks the nectar that fuels her in the intensity and clarity of an uncompromising motivation to cut through ignorance while embracing all accessible energy.

Moreover, Padmanateshvara charya nritya was beautifully displayed by Anastasia Roderick, a Sangha member of the Vihara. Padmanateshvara is the deity who represents performance arts. Padmanateshvara possesses ten hands. His initial gesture is to indicate the wisdom of the heart, with the second one he touches heaven, with the third the Earth. All the other symbols he holds in his different hands refer to the Buddha Dharma, and about one making decisions to follow this path.

Besides, Singhamukhi charya dance was performed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. The lion-faced Dakini symbolizes an enlightened female female like a lion-king. There is also the skull rosary/mala which represents the undertaking of the various feelings and moods of sentient beings and the snake represents the treasure.

Further, Mahakala Charya dance was rendered by Joshua Proto. Mahakala is a wrathful protector deity, dark blue in color and awesome to behold. He is beautiful and splendorous with his short and stout body, huge belly and angry look. He wears a tiger skin, bone ornaments, and snakes and is destroyer of all fears. Like Vajrapani, he dance upon the negative forces that fuel the path to enlightenment.

Also, Simhanado Lokeshvara and Sadaksari Lokeshvara Charya dances were displayed by  Ada Ip and Ayumi Cheng. 

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'Spring Blossoming Dance Offering' Held at Vihara

Portland, May 15 (Nepal Oregon News): A program "Spring Blossoming Dance offering" showing amazing and incredible Newar Vajrayana Buddhist Charya dances was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Friday, May 15, 2026.

Students of the Foundational Charya Dance  Course performed Mandala Dance - Refuge and Sixteen Offering Goddess dances. The dance performers were: Dira Osland, Ashley Low, Jennifer Pepper Koscis, Susan Morningstar, Clay Stenhilber, Hank Loos, Hawk Grubb, Lia Ovelar and Naveena Shakya.

Later, Vajrasattva charya dance was presented by Rev Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Vajrasattva embodies the state of being to which all Mahayana Tantric practitioners aspire, namely the adamantine state of full enlightenment.

Likewise, Green Tara charya dance was performed by Jennifer Pepper Koscis. Through graceful mudras, precise steps and meditative gestures , the charya dancer embodies the enlightened energy of Arya Tara, blessing devotees with protection, wisdom and swift liberation from obstacles and sufferings.

Similarly, Vajrayogini charya dance, on the occasion, was offered by Anna Shustrova. This is an embodied spiritual discipline where the Charya dancer visually and energetically transforms into Vajrayogini and the embodiment of supreme, enlightened wisdom.

Finally, Vajrapani charya dance was rendered by Rev Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. Vajrapani is a wrathful Bodhisattva dark blue in color, with bloodshot eyes, and an angry glare. He holds a bell in his left hand and a Vajra in his right and wears a tiger-skin garment, snakes wrapping around his body and ornaments made of bones and skulls.

All the Charya giti songs on the occasion were vocalized by Charya giti singer Joshua Proto. The program 'Spring Blossoming Dance Offering' was conducted by Anastasia Roderick. The program was attended in person by more than 40 people at the Vihara.

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Octogenarian Community Member Padma Laxmi Karanjit Passes Away

Portland, May 13 (Nepal Oregon News): Portland's Nepalese community was shocked and deeply moved by the sad news of demise on Friday, May 13, 2025 of octogenarian community member Maa Padma Laxmi Karanjit  who has been battling the age related disease for last couple of years.

Late Karanjit who was born on Oct 31, 1938 in Kathmandu, was married to late Bishnu Bahadur Karanjit. She is survived by three sons and two daughters and many grand children.

Late Padma Laxmi's son Pramod Karanjit and daughter Bijaya Maharjan are entrepreneurs in Portland.

A funeral service was held on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Holman's Funeral & Cremation Service on South East Hawthorne Boulevard in Portland, followed by a cremation service in Vancouver, Washington.

Extending the condolences on the occasion, president of Nepa Chhen Daya Shakya threw light on the life and contributions of late Padma Laxmi who came to the US in 2006.

Late Padma Laxmi's grand son Dennis Karanjit, community member Keshari Maharjan and Sangha member of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Rabin Man Shakya expressed the feelings that her legacy lives on through our treasured memories.

Likewise, Rev Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya took the podium to eulogize late Padma Laxmi's contributions to her family and community. Prajwal Guruji also said that late Padma Laxmi's  Buri Janko was ritualized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara  in Portland several years ago.

A number of Nepalese people living in Portland and its periphery came to the funeral service  to pay last tributes to late Padma Laxmi by offering flowers.

Present at the funeral service were the Sangha members of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, officials and ex-officials of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO), office bearers of NRNA-USA-Oregon chapter and Nepa Chhen.

During the funeral service, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, chief priest of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara conducted the Antyasthi Kriya Puja (funeral rituals). The Gurumandala puja was chanted during the funeral service.

Also, Prajwal Guruji gave away Chilakha to Pramod Karanjit, the deceased's son, for daag batti. Durgati Parishodhana Dharani was chanted by Guruju Pradip Bajracharya along with other funeral service participants.

On the tenth day of her demise - on May 23 - Pramod went to a river in Portland and after that was given a head-shaving at the temple. Prajwal Guruji purified the White Barkhi Dress and then handed it over to Pramod. Further, Prajwal Guruji gave 'Panchagavya' to Pramod.

Panchagavya is a Sanskrit word in which Pancha stands for five and Gavya refers to mostly cow derivatives: ghee, milk, cow dung, honey and water.

On the 12th day of passing, Gurumandala Puja, Homa Puja and Mamaki Puja were ritualized by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya at Pramod's residence in Portland. Homa Puja is a sacred ritual in which wood, ghee, grains and herbs are burned in a consecrated fire to invoke divine forces.

Mamaki Puja is an esoteric Tantric ritual dedicated to Mamaki, the Yellow Tara. The Puja is uniquely  associated with the worship of specific ritual items like Ayla (wine), Thwon (white fermented beer) and curd.

On the 13th day, Shraddh rituals were performed by Guruji Prajwal in honor of late Padma Laxmi at Pramod's house. Shraddh is a reverential death ritual performed to nourish and honor deceased person.

During the Shraddh ritual, Prajwal Guruji offered Pinda to the deceased soul. Pinda refers to the symbolic food offerings  (balls of rice, barley and sesamme seeds) made during the Shraddh ceremony to sustain the deoarted soul in the afterlife.

The Shraddh rituals are conducted so that the heavenly journey of the deceased souls after death is comfortable and stress-free. On the day of Shraddh rituals, a Shraddh-bhoj was offered by Pramod at his residence. 

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Sangha Member Joshua's Birthday Observed at Vihara

Portland, May 31 (Nepal Oregon News): Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Joshua Proto turned 32 on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

According to Newar Buddhism, birthday is also a part of lifecycle ritual. Joshua's birthday was celebrated at the Vihara amidst a religious ceremony called Navagraha Rituals which was performed by Prajwal Vajracharya, the chief Pujari.

A Puja Bha Sankalpa - consisting of Hyangu and Bhasugu Sinha, Goja, Jajanka, Dhau, Jaki, Baji, Dhup, flowers and coins etc - is prepared for the Navagraha Puja.

Usually, Khen Sagan (hard-boiled egg, anchovy fish and Khola of Ayla three times) is handed over to the birthday guy.

The Navagraha 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  obstacles and sufferings.

The Navagraha Puja is ritualized to clean the life of any undue negative possibilities and problems. 

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Bara Tayegu Rituals for a Newar Girl Organized in Gresham, Oregon

Portland, May 10 (Nepal Oregon News): Bara Tayegu rituals for Mriyana Sen Tamrakar were performed by Prajwal Guruji in Gresham, Oregon on Sunday, May  10, 2026. 

Mriyana is the daughter of Mrinal and Rajani Sen Tamrakar.

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

Bara Tayegu - which is one of the important lifecycle rituals of Newar women - is one of the traditional rituals which has been performed in Nepal for century.

Bara Tayegu  is a ritual carried out for young girls before the start of menstruation and usually followed by another important lifecycle ritual called 'Ihi'.

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Home Purification Ritual Held in King City, OR

Portland, May 10 (Nepal Oregon News): A house purification ritual was performed by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya at the new residence of Ramila and Prasanna Shakya in King City, Oregon on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

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

On the occasion, Gurumandala Puja and Pancha Bali Puja were performed by Prajwal Guruji.

According to Prajwal Guruji, Gurumandala Puja is the foundational Newar Buddhist ritual used to remove obstacles and invoke blessings for the households whereas Pancha Bali Puja is a primary house blessing and purification rite used when moving into a new home or clearing unpleasant energies.

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Indian Classical Music Concert Held at Vihara

Portland, May 28 (Nepal Oregon News): An Indian classical music concert was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

A powerful Bansuri and clarinet performance by world famous flute master Steve Gorn and Tabla playing by renowned multi-instrumentalist Benjy Wertheimer was held at the temple to the full house.

The concert was one of the rare opportunities for a limited number of audience at the Newar Buddhist temple in Portland to dive into the ocean of raga with bamboo flute by flute master Steve and multi-instrumentalist Benjy.

Steve Gorn has performed Indian classical music on Bansuri Bamboo flute in concerts and festivals across the world. A disciple of Shri Gour Goswami of Kolkata, India and Pandit Raghunath Seth of Mumbai, Steve is well known to audiences in India and the West.

A Grammy winner and five times Grammy nominee, Steve is creating a new idiom, a music that combines the essence from a virtuoso mastery, generating a vibrant fusion, alive and accessible to Western ears.

Benjy Wertheimer is award winning musician, composer, vocalist, producer and multi-instrumentalist equally accomplished in Tabla, congas, percussion, esraj, guitar and keyboards.

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Regular Activities Continue

All the usual events including Monthly Full Moon Namasangiti chanting, weekly Dharani chanting, Sadhana Practice, Buddha Bhajan practice and Charya giti singing practice were conducted on a regular basis  at the Vihara in person and on the zoom.

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NRNA-Oregon State Chapter Hosts Annual Summer Picnic

Community Picnic Great Opportunity to Celebrate Our Nepali Value, Nepali Cuisines: Shuddhodan Ranjit

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, May 25 (Nepal Oregon News): There is no doubt that picnics are a part of important activities of the community organizations. Picnics give people an opportunity to stay away from the hectic daily chores for a day and also an opportunity to communicate and interact with fellow community members. 

An annual summer picnic (Banbhoj) was organized at Cook Family Park, Tigard, Oregon on Saturday, May 23, 2026 by NRNA-USA-Oregon State chapter.

There was an overwhelming impression that this kind of picnic was very crucial to enhance interaction and dialogue among the Nepali community members in the greater Portland area.

This fun Nepalese community event featured different activities and entertainment programs.

The community summer picnic provided an opportunity for Nepalese Portlanders to enjoy an afternoon and evening of Nepali style lunch and dinner.

According to Shuddhodan Ranjit, NRNA-Oregon chapter president, the annual summer picnic which was a free event, was attended by about 200 Nepalese community members coming from different cities and places of the greater Portland area.

The Nepali community picnic was a great opportunity to celebrate our Nepali value, Nepali cuisines and traditions, Ranjit said.

Meanwhile, writing on his social media platform on Sunday, May 24, 2026, Ranjit said:"We would like to thank all those Nepali business owners who sponsored and supported this event in every possible way. Your generous donations, contributions and encouragement helped make this community gathering successful and meaningful."

Ranjit further added in his Facebook post:"Most importantly, thank you to all the community members who came to support and make this event such a wonderful success. Your presence, participation and spirit brought everyone together and made the picnic memorable."

He added:"Special thanks to our NRNA Oregon State Woman Vice President Neelima Ozha bahini, and of course Kumar Dai and his amazing team for their valuable time and effort in preparing such incredibly tasty food." Ranjit also extended his thankfulness to Padam Jung Gurung for capturing wonderful pictures of the picnic event.

Likewise, former president of NRNA-Oregon chapter Laxman Darlamee also said in the Facebook comment:"Great event! We had tons of fun and enjoyed the delicious food by Everest Curry Corner. The local goat meat was the bomb and on top of that it was a free event."

Similarly, in a post on Facebook, former general secretary of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Punam Glee said:"Thank you, NRNA-Oregon chapter - annual picnic 2026 - organizers and volunteers." 

She went on saying:"I had lots of fun eating tasty food, playing games, networking, meeting, talking with friends and community members. It was good seeing all of you - our community members."

It is to be noted that NRNA-Oregon State chapter was established in 2015 in Portland under the chairmanship of noted taekwondo entrepreneur Diwakar Maharjan.

The NRNA- Oregon chapter serves as a vital hub for the Nepalese diaspora, fostering unity, preserving culture and traditions and supporting community members in Oregon.

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, NRNA-USA-Oregon State chapter, Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) and Nepa Chhen are the prominent diaspora forums in Portland which cater to the local needs of the Nepali communities in Oregon.

 

(Nepal Oregon News writer Rabin Man Shakya who is a Sangha Member of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland and Vice President of Nepa Chhen, is also the Media Director of NRNA-USA-Oregon State chapter.)

Maa Ya Khwa Swoyagu: A Nepali Mother's Day

 Rabin Man Shakya

(A bevy of beautiful Nepalese moms at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA)

Portland, (Nepal Oregon News): Mother's Day is an important holiday in all the countries throughout the world. This Day is dedicated to honor dedication and sacrifice of mothers. 

This Day is a celebration honoring the mother and the motherhood, recognizing the role, strength and influence of a mother.

Even though we celebrate Mother's Day and Father's Day in the United States, these Days are totally different in terms of dates, days and cultural value and traditions comparing to Maa Ya Khwa Swayagu and Baa Ya Khwa Swayagu traditions in Nepal. 

Here in America, we the people from Nepal get to celebrate Nepalese Mother's Day and Nepalese Father's Day as well as American Mother's Day and American Father's Day.

 

Among many festivals, Maa Ya Khwa Swoyagu (Day for looking at mother's face -- Mother's Day) is also one of the important festivals of Nepal.

 This Day which is celebrated in Nepal on the day of  Baisakha Krishna Aunsi, also known as Mata Tirtha Aunsi which falls on the new moon of the Baisakha Month according to Lunar Calendar. 

Maa Ya Khwa Swayagu festival is a testimony to the honor and respect the sons and daughters offer to their mothers.

Beauty of Nepal lies in the fact that Nepal, though a small country, is a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-lingual country having more than 70 ethnic communities all of whom have their own festivals, culture, traditions and languages. 

Nepalese Mother's Day is celebrated by different ethnic communities in their own ways.

The folklore has it that once upon a time some children went to a Kunda (pond) and one of the children saw his deceased mother on the Kunda. The Kunda is known as Mata Tirtha Kunda. From then on, it has been a tradition for folks - whose mother is deceased - to go to Mata Tirtha Kunda to take a look of mother in water, to take a dive into water, to offer Nisalaa or Sidha Daan and offer Shraddh rituals.

The streets of Kathmandu look a little bit different on the day of Mother's Day. On this day, the narrow streets of Kathmandu are full of extended sweet meat shops. 

Home-cooked delicacies, sweets, cakes, cookies and other delicious foods are offered to the mothers by daughters and sons. Married daughters are seen going to their mother's home  with goodies and sweet meats. 

Speaking of Mother's Day in America, it was Anna Jarvis who initiated the Mother's Day in USA in the early 20th century. 

In 1908, the first formal Mother's Day service was held at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia, to pay tribute to Jarvis's late mother. In 1914, president Woodrow Wilson officially signed a decree proclaiming Mother's Day as a national holiday.

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Newar journalist in USA)

Charya Nritya is a Path of Deity Yoga in Motion, Says Prajwal Vajracharya

Six-week Foundational Course on Charya Dance Kicks Off at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA

Rabin Man Shakya

(Rev Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya conducting six-week foundational course on Charya dance at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA) 

Portland, Apr 6 (Nepal Oregon News): Rooted in the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal, Charya Nritya, the sacred dance of the Newar lineage is a profound spiritual discipline where movement becomes meditation, and the body itself becomes the mandala of awakening.

Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and one of the most senior Charya Nritya Guru in the world, said this while addressing a six-week  long - Foundational Charya Nritya Series - which is being organized every Sunday from April 5- May 10, 2026 by US Dance Mandal in Portland, Oregon.

Underscoring the importance of Charya Nritya, he told the participants of the course:"With over a thousand years of unbroken lineage, Charya Nritya is a path of deity yoga in motion, an invitation to inhabit sacred form, refine perception, and awaken the innate wisdom held within the body."

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

Basic understanding of the Mudra is important in Newar Buddhist tradition because without Mudra there is no Mahamudra, said Portland's Newar Guruju.

The noted Charya Nritya trainer said:"The Sanskrit word - Charya - means movement, conduct, discipline or performance. The Vajracharya priests in the Kathmandu valley maintain a Buddhist dance tradition that dates back over a thousand years and has remained, for the most part, hidden from the world."

The Newar Buddhist Charya Nritya educator in USA - Prajwal - continued:"This ritual art is known as Charya Nritya which means - dance as a spiritual discipline.

The Charya dance pedagogue told the course participants:"You don't practice Charya as a form of entertainment.  But you do it as a form of spiritual movement, as meditation, as prayer, as Sadhana."

According to Prajwal Guruji, participants were able to learn about the history of the ancient and medieval practice, and train their bodies in the movements, exercises, finger, hand and foot Mudras, and techniques that are the foundations of the Charya Nritya and practice of the Refuge and the Sixteen Offering Goddess Dances. 

The Guruji said:"This initial training lays the groundwork by focusing on the physical and spiritual alignment necessary for the deity yoga."

The Foundational Series refers to the core introductory training on Charya Nritya required before moving on to more advanced deity dances. Participants of the course begin by learning the thousand - year history of the practice, which was traditionally kept secret within priestly communities like the Vajracharyas and the Shakyas of the Kathmandu valley, Prajwal Guruji went on saying.

Prajwal Guruji stated:"1-2-4 step sequence means a fundamental rhythmic movement where the practitioners shift their weight, hip and head in a wave-like motion to activate the central energy channel."

 The Series includes specific exercises to train the body for the Tribhanga posture - a signature 'three fold' bend of the body at neck, hip and knees that connects with internal energy channels, he added.

Six-week Foundational Charya Nritya course was conducted for participants each Sunday for two hours at the Vihara in Portland. The course, which was divided into theoretical and practical classes for one hour each, is scheduled to be wrapped up on Sunday, May 10, 2026. 

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Zoom Teaching on "Ten Bhumis, Wisdom and Paramita" Organized

Portland, April 24 (Nepal Oregon News): A  zoom teaching on "Ten Bhumis, Wisdom and Paramita" was organized by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association on Friday, April 24, 2026. The on-line teaching was conducted by Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA.

The virtual teaching event was participated by 25 people on the zoom. Addressing the remotely held gathering, Prajwal Guruji said that Ten Bhumis, Wisdom and Paramitas are interconnected.

The concept of Ten Bhumis comes from a Sanskrit word "Bhumi" which means ground or level, said Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Tantric Buddhist priest from Nepal and a ritual master of the Charya Nritya dance tradition and other ritual forms.

Prajwal Guruji went on saying:"In Vajrayana Buddhism, the Ten Bhumis are the grounds or progressive stages of realization a Bodhisattva traverses to reach complete Buddhahood. Each stage represents a specific refinement of non-dual wisdom, a mastery of a particular perfection (paramita), and the systematic removal of emotional and cognitive obscurations."

Prajwal Guruji further said:"This is a powerful distillation of the Bodhisattva path. By refraining the Bhumis as degrees of stabilization rather than external milestones, you bridge the gap between traditional cosmology and direct experience."

Moreover, the Guruji added:"The inclusion of Nadi-Chakra purification is particularly insightful, as it grounds the abstract philosophical shifts of the Five Paths into a tangible, energetic transformation within the practitioner's body. This embodied aspect is often the missing link in comparative studies between Sutra and Tantra."

Throwing light on the symbolism of stupa, Prajwal Guruji reiterated that a stupa is a sacred architectural symbol representing the enlightened mind of the Buddha.

During the teaching on Ten Bhumis, Prajwal Guruji also analyzed the profoundness and relevance of Paramitas (perfections), Chakras and subtle body, Gyana (wisdom), Buddha nature, Dasha Karma, Dasha Visheka in Vajrayana Buddhism.

During the teaching, Prajwal Guruji elaborated the meaning of 13 Bhumis: (1) Pramudita Bhumi (2) Vimala Bhumi (3) Prabhakari Bhumi (4) Arcimati Bhumi (5) Sudurjaya Bhumi (6) Abhimmukhi Bhumi (7) Duramgama Bhumi (8) Acala Bhumi (9) Sathumati Bhumi (10) Dharmamegha Bhumi (11) Samantaprabha Bhumi (12) Adhimukhi Bhumi and (13) Nyapomala Bhumi.

Five elements  - earth (square base), water (hemispherical dome), fire (conical spire), air (crescent moon) and space (topmost jewel) are crucial in the structure of a Buddhist stupa, said Prajwal Guruji.

The central shaft of a stupa contains 13 tiers representing the ten stages of Bodhisattva development and three higher stages, Prajwal Guruji said, adding that each tier symbolizes different Bhumis.

The Guruji informed the zoom participants that along with Swayambhu Mahachaitya, Boudhanath, Namo Buddha and Shreegha Vihara, there are 1,500 big and small stupas and chaityas in the Kathmandu valley.

During the on-line class, Prajwal Guruji also shed light on Dharma Dhatu  Mandala and Vajra Dhatu Mandala. Likewise, the Guruji showed participants a number of precious and rare pictures and also answered to their queries at the end of the teaching.

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Charya Nritya Blooms at NAO's 25th Anniversary Event

Portland, April 18 (Nepal Oregon News): A program was organized on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Multnomah Arts Center in Beaverton to celebrate Bikram Sambat New Year 2083 and to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) with a cultural program of songs and dances.

On the occasion, certificates of appreciation were given away by Consular General of Nepal in San Francisco Lakshuman Khanal to Prajwal Vajracharya of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and other former office bearers of the Nepali Association of Oregon.

On behalf of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, two ancient and esoteric Charya dances: Rakta Ganesha and Annapurna Charya dances were brilliantly performed by Joshua Proto and Anna Shustrova respectively.

Rakta Ganesha Charya Nritya is a sacred ritualistic dance from the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal. 

This Charya dance is performed to invoke Elephant Deity as a remover of obstacles  and promoter of Dharma. 

Rakta Ganesha has a red complexion - symbolizing power, life energy - an elephant's head, and a human body with multiple arms. Rakta Ganesha Charya dance was performed by Joshua Proto, a Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara. This is a mask dance.

Annapurna Charya dance was presented by Anna Shustrova, a Sangha member of the Vihara as well.

 Annapurna Charya Nritya is a sacred ritual dance from the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal. 

Annapurna is the Goddess of harvest. In Nepal, she is honored as Mother Earth. She is white in  color with three eyes and has a great snake as her vehicle.

 Her eight arms hold various implements in order to be of benefit to many different kinds of beings. 

The Charya giti of Annapurna Charya Nritya was vocalized live by Joshua Proto, a seasoned Charya giti singer.

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Interaction with Consul General Khanal Organized in Portland

Portland, April 18 (Nepal Oregon News): An interaction program with Lakshuman Khanal was organized by NRNA-USA-Oregon chapter at the US West Coast Hollywood Taekwondo School in Portland on Saturday, April 18, 2026. 

Lakshuman Khanal is the first and recently appointed Consul General of Nepal in San Francisco, California.

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Khanal said:"The Nepali Consular Office in San Francisco is new one which covers 11 US states including states of Oregon and Washington. Nepalese living in Oregon now do not have to go to Washington DC or New York for passport and other issues. They just can come to San Francisco consular office."

Addressing the gathering, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland and Spiritual/Cultural Director of NRNA Oregon chapter threw light on the activities of the Vihara.

The interaction program was attended by Daya Shakya, former NRNA-Oregon chapter president, Diwakar Maharjan, NRNA-Oregon chapter founder president, Raju Mali, NRNA Oregon chapter vice president, Bharat Banskota, former NAO president, Jangbu Sherpa, former NRNA Oregon chapter president, Neelima Ozha, female vice president of NRNA Oregon chapter, Alex Minu of Hollywood Taekwondo School and Rabin Man Shakya, Media Director of NRNA Oregon chapter and Sangha member of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

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Buddha Jayanti Cleaning Drive Organized

Portland, April 25 (Nepal Oregon News): A bi-annual cleaning campaign was launched on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, Portland as part of preparation for the 2570th Buddha Jayanti celebrations. 

Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the only Newar Buddhist temple in the West, was built in 2009 with materials brought to Portland from Nepal. They have to be preserved and protected, taking into consideration the differences of climatic conditions between Kathmandu and Portland.

Meanwhile, writing on his social media platform on April 19, 2026, Prajwal Vajracharya said:"Buddha's birthday is approaching on the full moon day of Saturday, May 2, and we are so excited to celebrate  Buddha Jayanti together at the Vihara."

The Guruji further added in his Facebook post:"To prepare our sacred space for this special and sacred event, we are hosting our bi-annual cleaning party on April 25, 2026." In his Facebook post, Prajwal Guruji emphasized the need for cleanliness and healthy environment in and around the temple.

The Pujaris, Sangha members and Nepali community members who offered help with cleaning activities were provided with lunch by Prajwal Guruji.

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in America)

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Interaction with Consul General Khanal Organized in Portland

Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Marks Its 25th Anniversary,  Bikram Sambat New Year 2083

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, April 19, (Nepal Oregon News): An interaction program with Lakshuman Khanal was organized by NRNA-USA- Oregon chapter at the US West Coast Hollywood Taekwondo School in Portland on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Lakshuman Khanal is the first and recently appointed Consul General of Nepal in San Francisco, California.

Founder president of NRNA Oregon chapter and senior taekwondo guru Diwakar Maharjan expressed his happiness to welcome the Nepali diplomat for an interaction with local community members.

Speaking on the occasion, Khanal said:"The Nepali Consular Office in San Francisco is new one which covers for 11 US states including states of Oregon and Washington. Nepalese living in Oregon now do not have to go to Washington DC or New York for passport problems. They can just come to San Francisco Consular Office."

Sharing that he has the experience of working at the NRN division at the Foreign Ministry of Nepal,  he said:"The newly elected majority government is working hard to ease the problems facing the NRNs."

Underscoring NRNA's motto of "Once a Nepali, always a Nepali," Khanal said many countries around the world have benefitted a lot by mobilizing their own people now residing abroad." 

The Consul General also informed the participants of the interaction program that the consular team is planning to visit Portland in coming summer for carrying out passport renewals and other issues.

Addressing the gathering, Prajwal Vajracharya of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland and Spiritual/Cultural Director of NRNA Oregon chapter threw light on the activities of the Vihara, whereas founder of Nepali Association of Oregon Raju Mali spoke about the origin of NAO in Portland. Former NRNA Oregon president Daya Shakya expressed the view that NRNs and Nepali immigrants  abroad should not be termed as diaspora.

The interaction program was attended by Bharat Banskota (former NAO president),  Jangbu Sherpa (former president of NRNA Oregon chapter), Neelima Ozha (female vice president of NRNA Oregon chapter), Alex Minu (Hollywood Taekwondo School) and Rabin Man Shakya (Media Director - NRNA Oregon chapter).

Likewise, Nepali Consular General Khanal paid a courtesy call on Mayor of Eugene Ms Kaarin Knudson at her office in Eugene on Friday, April 17, 2026.

According to NAO's former president Bharat Banskota, the meeting was primarily zeroed in on strengthening and promoting cooperation between city of Kathmandu and city of Eugene under sister city framework.

Meanwhile, a program was organized on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Multnomah Arts Center in Beaverton to celebrate Bikram Sambat New Year 2083 and to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Nepali Association of Oregon with a cultural program of songs and dances.

Certificates of Appreciation were given away by Consular General Khanal to Prajwal Vajracharya of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and other former office bearers of Nepali Association of Oregon.

On behalf of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, two ancient and esoteric Charya dances: Rakta Ganesha and Annapurna Charya dances were brilliantly performed by Joshua Proto and Anna Shustrova. 

 

(Nepal Oregon News writer Rabin Man Shakya was former general secretary of Kathmandu-Eugene Sister City Committee (1992-2002) under Kathmandu Metropolitan City.)

Ninth World Newah Day Celebrated in Portland, USA with Newah Jhwo Bhoye

Daya Shakya's Music Video 'Newah Voice' Released

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 29 (Nepal Oregon News): A program was organized by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and Nepa Chhen in Portland, USA on Saturday, March 28, 2026 to celebrate the Ninth World Newah Day.

75 people - among them the American Buddhists and Nepalese community members - took part at the Portland's Ninth World Newah Day event. Likewise, 10 participants took part at the Portland's program on the zoom.

The World Newah Day celebration in Portland kicked off with the singing of Newah National Anthem.

The main attraction of the World Newah Day celebration in Portland, USA was the Newah Jhwo Bhoye (a Newar feast tradition in which participants or guests are seated crossed-legged on long mats and Newar food served on a Lapte).

The Newah Jhwo Bhoye is organized every year at the Newar Buddhist temple in Portland to mark the World Newah Day. 21 different kinds of Newah cuisines were served on traditional green Lapte plates.

The community aspect of sharing food likely strengthens bonds and fosters community harmony among the Newah Portlanders. The Newar Bhoye tradition also highlights and preserves Newar cuisine and culinary heritage.

Delivering Laskus Nwochu (welcome speech) on the occasion, Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara expressed the view that celebration of World Newah Day  is a chance for us to raise awareness for preservation and promotion of Newar culture and tradition.

Vajracharya, who is the chief pujari at the Mahavihara, also informed the participants about his recent visit to Oxford, London, UK where he made presentations on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism.

Throwing light on the World Newah Day history, vice president of Nepa Chhen Dr Rabin Man Shakya stressed that the celebration of World Newah Day is an opportunity for the Newah people across the world to renew our commitment for Newah cause in challenging times.

On the occasion, expressing his happiness over the activities of the Mahavihara, Joshua Proto - a Sangha member and a seasoned Charya giti singer - underscored the need of collective efforts to promote Newar Buddhism and Newar culture. Joshua also extended World Newah Day greetings to all the participants.

After that, Hong Kong Dance Mandal presented two Vajra dances on the zoom: Manjushree Vajra Dance  and Green Tara Vajra Dance.

Manjushree Vajra Dance was performed by Sin Ying Leung. Manjushree is the Bodhisattva associated with Pragya (wisdom) in Newar Buddhism. Manjushree means 'Gentle Glory' in Sanskrit. The Lord of Wisdom, Manjushree holds Pragya Paramita (perfection of wisdom) text 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, Green Tara Vajra Dance was performed by Dr Tina Ho. Arya Tara is an important figure in Newar Vajrayana 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 in color 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 lotus of purity with her left hand at her heart.

After that, Arya Shakya and Veena Shakya performed a Newah duet dance "Chhangu Mikha Taska Bala" (your eyes are very beautiful).

This was followed by a song rendition in Nepal Bhasa on months and seasons of Nepal Sambat by Anjali Bajracharya.

Kusumavati Bajracharya recited a poem in Nepal Bhasa about women empowerment. Naveena Shakya presented a poem in Nepal Bhasa 'Importance of Mother Tongue'. Likewise, Kritish Rajbhandari, a professor at Reeds College, read out a poem by Jana Kavi Durga Lal Shrestha.

Also, former president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Ganga Sharma gave information about the upcoming NAO New Year party, whereas Kritish Rajbhandari made an announcement about 'Nepal Bhasa Language Classes for all ages'. The classes are to begin from May 17, 2026 at Hollywood Taekwondo School. Furthermore, president of Nepa Chhen Daya Shakya shed light on nutritional value of Newah Bhoye.

Furthermore, a music video in Nepal Bhasa 'Newah Voice' written and produced by Daya Shakya was officially released. The music video says - let us fight for our rights - and depicts struggle and protests of Newah people and harassment meted out to the Newah activists.

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Zoom Teaching on 'Vajracharyas in Vajrayana' Held

Portland, March 21 (Nepal Oregon News):  A zoom teaching on 'Vajracharyas in Vajrayana' which was conducted by Prajwal Vajracharya, was organized by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA) on Friday, March 20, 2026.

Prior to the presentation, Prajwal Guruji and the zoom participants performed the Refuge chanting.

Making an introductory remark, Dr Tina Ho of HKBSA mentioned that Prajwal Guruji's talk is primarily based on his recent visit to Oxford, London.

Addressing the virtual gathering, Prajwal Vajracharya said:"The term - Vajrayana - refers to one of the three vehicles or routes to enlightenment, other two being the Sravakyana  (Hinayana) and Mahayana (Paramitayana).

The chief pujari at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara  in Portland emphasized that a Vajracharya is a Vajrayana Buddhist priest among the Newar communities of Nepal and a revered teacher who is highly attained in Vajrayana practices and rituals.

"Vajracharya means a Vajra Master. Vajracharyas are also called Guruju or Gubhaju which are Nepal Bhasa terms for Sanskrit word 'Guru'.  The Vajracharya is the highest ranking of the Newar castes that are born Buddhist," added Prajwal Guruji.

Vajracharyas are the ritual masters for community festivals and essential life-cycle rituals, including birth, marriage and death ceremonies, ensuring that sacred traditions are woven into the fabric of daily life, the co-founder of the Mahavihara  told the zoom audience.

Stressing on the role and importance of the Vajracharyas in Newar Buddhism, Portland's Newah Gubhaju reiterated:"By bridging the gap between wisdom of ancient Mahasiddhas and modern practice, the Vajracharyas continue to preserve the deep spiritual heritage of the Himalayan region still in present days."

The Vajracharyas still serve as vital spiritual anchors and ritual experts in Newar Buddhism in Nepal, asserted the Guruji acknowledging "albeit the number of qualified and professional Vajracharyas is on the decline."

Newar Buddhist tradition is the oldest Buddhist tradition in the world, Prajwal Guruji said and threw light on Dipankara Buddha, one of the Buddhas of the past. He said that based on Swayambhu Purana and ancient history, there were many Buddhas before the Shakya Muni Buddha: Vipaswi Buddha, Shikhi Buddha, Vishwobhu Buddha, Krakuchanda Buddha, Kanakmuni Buddha and Kashyap Buddha.

Once upon a time, the Kathmandu valley was a huge lake, the Guruji told the participants about its history, about Vipashwi Buddha's visit to Swayambhu, about Maha Manjushree striking the hill with his sword and releasing all the waters form the lake.

Prajwal Guruji also dealt on the ancient and medieval Tantric Mahasiddhas like Shantikaracharya, the first Vajrayana Tantric Guru of the Nepal Mandala, Surat Bajra Bajracharya, Lila Bajra Bajracharya, Manju Bajra Bajracharya and so on.

In fact, the origin of Mahankal temple in Kathmandu is tied to Tantric priest Shaswot Bajra Bajracharya of the Mantra Siddhi Mahavihara (Sabal Baha), he added.

Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Buddhist priest blamed on the then non-Buddhist rulers for the slow growth of Newar Buddhism in Nepal. "Newar Vajrayana Buddhism flourished during the Lichhavi dynasty in Nepal. But after that, it was followed by 800 years of secrecy under oppressive  Hindu rule of Mallas, Shahs and Ranas".

During the presentation, Prajwal Guruji presented a detailed and comprehensive information on the history of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism and its interconnectedness with the Vajracharyas. "Historically, the first mention of Vajracharya was found in a stone carving dating 389 AD during the rule of King Bishwo Deva," he said.

The participants of the online teaching also included Dr Myrinda Shaw, Dr Tina Ho, Isabelle Chouinard and Daya Shakya.

At the end of the remotely-held teaching, Prajwal Guruji also answered to the questions of the zoom participants.

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Portland's Reed College Students Visit Newar Buddhist Temple

Portland, March 17 (Nepal Oregon News): A team of students from Reed College, Portland visited  Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first and only one Newar Vajrayana Buddhist monastery in the West, on Monday March 16, 2026.

The team of the Reed College students  visiting the Mahavihara were: Michael Stevenson (Teacher) and students - Kirk Rea, Jackson Chapman and Vieve Caperton.

The purpose of the field trip project "Land, Art & Spirituality - (LAS)" was to gain an understanding of the history, worship and practice in the Mahavihara.

Prajwal Guruji and the Reed College team together performed Refuge dance. Refuge dance is a performance of Buddha Bandana dance through Charya Nritya. Practitioners take refuge through embodiment of 'three jewels' - the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha.

On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji delivered  a lecture on Newar Buddhism. The Guruji threw light on the history of Newar Buddhism, a rich form of Vajrayana practiced in the Kathmandu valley.

The lecture zeroed in on the meaning of 10 Paramitas and the power of rituals. The teaching also focused on Charya Nritya which is a unique Newar Buddhist tradition dating back a thousand years that uses the physical body as vehicle for liberating the mind. The presentation also dealt with Mudra, Meditation and Mantras.

The Reed College students acquired information about the ongoing activities at the Newar Vajrayana monastery.

Likewise, the Reed College team visited library, art section, mask section and costume section of the Mahavihara.

"Land, Arts & Spirituality - (LAS)" gives students the opportunity to learn about embodied and meditative cultural practices while also learning about and practicing different methods of making.

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Weekly Activities in Vihara Continue

On Tuesday, March 3, Manjushree Naamsangiti was conducted by the Vihara on zoom to mark the Holi Punhi (full moon day). In March, as usual and as always, Dharani chanting on zoom was conducted once a week Tuesday evening. Similarly, Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajan singing practice were held on each Wednesday evening. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed in the mornings every Friday.

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in USA)

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