On-line Course on Kurukulla Charya Dance Held

Deity Kurukulla is a Magnetizing Dakini, Says Vajracharya

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, June 18, (Nepal Oregon News): A five-week live online course on Kurukulla Singing and Dancing is being organized by the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara from June 3 to July 1, 2022. The Kurukulla Singing and Dancing Course was conducted by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Mahavihara.

25 participants from eight countries -- Nepal, USA, Hong Kong, Singapore, Brazil, Colombia, Italy and Germany -- are taking part at the five-week long Kurukulla Charya Dance Course which is held each Friday for one hour, said Vajracharya a veteran Charya Nritya Guru. Each class every week kicks off with a short Dharma talk by Guruji Vajracharya.

Speaking during the online course, Prajwal, one of the senior Charya Nritya Gurus in the world, said:"This Charya dance is named after the deity -- Kurukulla devi. Kurukulla charya dance is one of the ancient classical dances of Nepal. This dance is performed especially as a devotion to the female Buddha -- Kurukulla, he added.

(Prajwal Guru's student LiAnne Hunt performing Kurukulla charya dance at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara)

Giving some introductory details about Kurukulla devi, Prajwal, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest, said:"Deity Kurukulla is a quintessence of lovely sentiments and enchantment."

Kurukulla dance shows beautiful mixture, strong sense of entrancing, said Vajracharya who is also the Chief Pujari at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first and only one Newar Buddhist Vajrayana temple in the West.

Kurukulla is a princess. She is also an incarnation of Vajrayogini. Kurukulla is the only deity who is worshipped in the process of Tantric rituals for enchanting and entrancing (Mohani Yayegu), Vajracharya further said.

Underscoring the importance of jewelry in Charya dance and stating that they are associated with six paramitas (transcendental perfection of Buddhism), Vajracharya said that Devi Kurukulla is also adorned with different jewels, bones and flowers. He went on saying that Kurukulla also wears a tiger's skin in this Charya nritya.

Kurukulla is one of the main yidam practices in Tibetan Buddhism as well, Vajracharya, a ritual master of the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal, said adding:"Kurukulla is a fully awakened  female Buddha and a magnetizing Dakini."

Throwing light on the iconography of Kurukulla devi, Rev Guruji Vajracharya who is also a scholar on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, said:"Kurukulla is a female deity whose body is usually depicted in red garments and red jewelry. Kurukulla devi who is also known as Ugra Tara has four hands. Two of her left hands are depicted as holding a flowery arrow on a flowery bow and two of her right hands are depicted as holding a hook and noose of flowers."

Laying emphasis on Kurukulla as one of the important Tara deities, Guruji Vajracharya said:"Kurukulla is a female Buddha who enchants with her beauty, weaponry and powers of magnetizing."

In Kurukulla charya dance, symbolic movements of fingers, hands and legs are skillfully timed with general body movements and facial expressions,  the scholar on Charya nritya said.

Also on June 17, 2022, Prof Dr Myrinda Shaw, author of books on Vajrayogini and Buddhist Gods and Goddesses, was a guest lecturer for the participants of the course for half an hour. Prof Dr Shaw threw light on different forms of the deity Kurukulla.

The five-week Kurukulla Singing and Dancing will be wrapped up on Friday, July 1, 2022 with the sacred initiation ritual of Devi Kurukulla.

__________________________________________

Vajracharya Honored with WNO-USA Award for Contributions to Newar Culture and Heritage

Portland, June 15 (Nepal Oregon News): A special award of appreciation by World Newah Organization - USA was presented to Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya for his dedicated support and contribution to Newah culture and heritage through continued service and promotion in the USA and abroad.

The WNO-USA Special Award was handed over to Vajracharya, who is also the co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM), by Daya Shakya, who is the patron, founding member and former senior vice president of WNO, amid a function held at the Mahavihara in Portland on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.

The WNO-USA Special Award presented to Vajracharya honored a Nepali Oregonian  who has modeled the attributes of a Buddhist scholar, Charya Nritya Guru and Vajrayana Ritual Master through leadership, action and community service and has shared and dedicated time, expertise and resources for support and contribution to Newar culture and heritage.

There is no doubt that the WNO - USA Special Award represents recognition and appreciation for Vajracharya's role and achievement in promoting the value of Newar culture and heritage.

Vajracharya has been honored with numerous awards by different organizations in the past.

Speaking on the occasion, Award Receipient Vajracharya expressed his gratitude to the WNO-USA for choosing him for award.

Vajracharya said:" The NMM preserves and shares the traditions of Buddhist practice, arts and culture held by the Newah 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 the old and new Buddhist texts."

Vajracharya, who is also chief pujari at Portland's Buddhist temple, stressed the need for exploring avenues to preserve and promote Newah arts, rituals, culture and heritage.

Patron and founding member  of WNO Daya Shakya threw light on the objectives and activities  of the global Newah forum and said:"WNO is an international platform of the Newah people scattered across the world to champion the cause of strengthening and consolidating Newah solidarity and promoting Newah culture, heritage and identity." 

______________________________________

Recital of Naamsangiti Marks Jya Punhi at Portland's Newar Buddhist Temple

Portland, June 15 (Nepal Oregon News): Jya Punhi or Jya Purnima was observed by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA by reciting Naamsangiti at the temple on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.

Naamsangiti reciting, which was led by temple's chief pujari Pundit Prajwal Vajracharya, was followed by Gabriel Quitslund, Anna Shustrova, Tsechen (an American), Riyaz Khan, Daya Shakya, Aniruddha Shakya, Naveena Shakya and Dr Rabin Man Shakya.

Likewise, 15 other people from USA, Hong Kong and Canada took part at the Naamsangiti Recital program from the zoom.

It is to be noted that Nritya Mandala Mahavihara has been organizing Manjushree Naamsangiti on every full moon day of the month. Also, Naamsangiti is recited daily at the Mahavihara during the month of Gunla (Nepal Sambat Lunar Calendar).

Reciting of Naamsangiti is useful for mitigating stress and tension, gaining health and removing obstacles. Anything you do on the auspicious day of Purnima will be successful, said Prajwal Vajracharya.

He added:"The far-reaching importance of Naamsangiti reciting lies on the fact that Manjushree Bodhisattva is the embodiment of all knowledge and wisdom."

Shedding light on different manifestations of Lord Manjushree, Vajracharya said:"Arpachana Manjushree, Manjughosha, Vagishvara Manjushree, Manjuvajra and Manjushree Naamsangiti are the important manifestations of Lord Manjushree."

Naamsangiti is the quintessence of Buddhism because it summarizes all the Buddha's teachings, he further said.

Stressing the need for preserving traditions, he said:"At a time when a lot of heritage, historical and religious scriptures are on the verge of extinction, disseminating the sacred Tantras and preachings is essential to keep them alive. That is why the Mahavihara is dedicated to protect, promote and preserve these sacred traditions."

At the end of Naamsangiti recitation, dinner was provided to all the in-person participants at the Mahavihara by Prajwal Guruji.

Meanwhile, regular Dharani recitation was conducted by the Mahavihara on every Tuesday while Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajan singing were held each Wednesday. Similarly, Charya giti singing practice was also organized every week on Friday. 

Similarly, different pujaris have been performing daily Nitya Puja at the temple in the morning every day while the Nitya Puja at night is ritualized everyday by Prajwal Guruju himself.

(Rabin Man Shakya is one of the few  Nepalese journalists in the USA)

Prajwal Vajracharya Performs Guru Rinpoche (Padmasamvabha) and Padmanateshvara Charya Nritya Dances at Himalayan Fair, Berkeley

Himalayan Fair Organized at Live Oak Park, Berkley

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, May 23 (Nepal Oregon News): Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya -- one of the senior most Charya Nritya gurus in the world and a prominent ritual master of both the Charya Nritya dance tradition and other ritual forms performed by the Newar Vajracharya lineage -- participated at the Himalayan Fair at Live Oak Park, Berkeley, California on Saturday - Sunday May 21 and 22, 2022.

On the occasion, Rev Guruji Prajwal performed two meditational and esoteric Buddhist Charya dances at the Himalayan Fair on both days: Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)  Charya dance and Padmanateshvara charya dance.

 (Prajwal Vajracharya performing Padmasambhava Charya nritya dance at  the Himalayan Fair.)



Padmasambhava nritya is one of the important and precious Charya nritya dances in Newar Buddhism,  according to Prajwal Guruji. Padmasambhava, who was a powerful and influential Tantric Buddhist, was called upon to Tibet in the eighth century to disseminate Buddhist philosophy and teachings in Tibet.

Om ah hum vajra guru padma siddhi hum is the Vajra Guru Mantra related to Padmasambhava. Padmasambhava is a totally enlightened being, a fully awakened one, a Buddha, says Prajwal Guruji adding Guru Rinpoche is wrathful and smiling, wrathful like Vajrapani.

Padmasambhava,  who usually wears a red hat, is dressed  with various attires  of different colors usually the yellow one. The deity is seated on a lotus with colorful petals. 

(Prajwal Vajracharya  offering Padmanateshvara charya nritya dance at the Himalayan Fair.)




Padmanateshvara (Nasa Dyo) is the deity who represents performance arts, the yidam of Charya Nritya - the Lord dancing on Padma.  Padmanateshvara's (who possesses ten hands) 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. 

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

Charya Nritya is a Newar Vajrayana Buddhist ritual dance with a history going back to more than 1,000 years. Charya Nrityas are performed by Newar Buddhist priests known as Vajracharyas as part of their esoteric meditation practices and rituals.

The Himalayan Fair offered a wide spectrum of award-winning stage performers. The entertainment featured a wide range of international groups performing traditional music and dance with vibrant ethnic, religious and traditional costumes.

Live Oak Park in Berkeley was transformed into a bustling Himalayan Bazaar with thousands of visitors.  

There were numerous booths and stalls showcasing Himalayan Arts and Crafts, Himalayan Food, Travel and Trekking and Kids Booth and one of them was also a booth of World Newah Organization, an umbrella organization of Newar people living across the world.

Founded in 1983 by Arlene Blum, the Himalayan Fair is an annual celebration of the arts and culture of the Himalayan region and its people.

 The Fair offered a rare occasion to experience a Himalayan festival including some of the best world music and traditional music and dance from the Himalayas along with amazing food, shopping and people.

Arlene Blum led the first female expedition, up the world's 10th highest peak -- Annapurna in 1978. Blum was part of the Bicentennial Everest Expedition in 1976, setting an altitude record for American women. 

Arlene's climbing feats are preceded by a career as a biochemist at the University of California, Berkeley. Arlene founded the Himalayan Fair with a Tibetan Buddhist Monk -- Lama Kunga of the Ewam Choden Center.

----------------------------------------------------------------

2566th Buddha Jayanti marked in Portland with Various Events

 

Portland, May 26 (Nepal Oregon News): Buddha Jayanti is  a very auspicious day for Buddhists all over the world.  2566th Buddha Jayanti was celebrated at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM) in Portland, USA on Sunday, May 15, 2022 amid various programs.

A procession was taken out around the temple at the Mahavihara accompanied by children who played kids' music. Buddha Purnima celebrations started at the Mahavihara with the chanting of Maha Manjushree Naamsangiti by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and other Sangha members in person and in the zoom.  Before the Naamsangiti chanting, devotees gave bath to Baby Buddha. 

108 butter fed diyos (candle-like lights) were illuminated during the religious ceremony. Likewise, Refuge Dance (a performance of Buddha Bandana Dance through Charya Nritya) was also performed 108 times continuously by American and Nepali devotees.

Several Buddhist Bhajan songs were presented on the occasion by Joshua Proto, Casey Redman,  Mario Mastrangelo  while music on drum was played by Satya Vayu (an American).

At the end of the function, a talent show was held. Sangha member Naveena Shakya recited a poem entitled 'Buddha Was Born in Nepal' which was written by her in 2018 and was published in a Buddhist magazine in Nepal. Poonam Ghimire, a physics instructor at the University of Portland also presented a short poem. Ganga Sharma, secretary of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) lauded talent of Buddha Bhajan group. Carline Schossau  spoke about arts and presented a gift to the Mahavihara. Likewise, Daya Shakya, president of NAO also recited poems of famous Newah poet Durga Lal Shrestha in the zoom.

The program was followed by a Kheer dinner (rice cooked in milk with sugar, cashews, cloves, cardamoms, raisins, coconuts etc) along with Sel Roti, Barfi, Maarpa and other Newah delicacies.

According to Guruji Prajwal of the Mahavihara, about 100 people attended the Buddha Jayanti program in person at the Mahavihara while 25 other people from Nepal, USA, Hong Kong and Canada took part at the event in the zoom.

 Talking to Nepal Oregon News, Guruji Prajwal said:"Lord Gautam Buddha was born to the Queen of Kapilvastu Mayadevi and King Shuddhodhan in 623 BC as Prince Siddhartha on the full moon day of the Nepali month of Baisakh."

Guruji Prajwal, who is a scholar of Newah Vajrayana Buddhism, said:"Born and brought up in the royal palace, Prince Siddhartha left his palace and consort and newborn son in quest of liberation of mankind at age 29."

Guruji further added:"Siddhartha Gautam attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya after meditating in various places for nearly six years."

Prajwal who is a priest and ritual master of the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition of Nepal went on saying:"Lord Gautam Buddha's birth, enlightenment and Nirvana took place on the full moon day of Baisakh. That is why the Buddha Jayanti Day is very sacred and auspicious for the Buddhists."

"The celebration of Buddha Purnima in a number of countries across the world highlights the significance of Buddhism as a major religious force in the world with an estimated 480 million adherents," the Guruji said. 

----------------------------------------------------------

Buddha Jayanti Cleaning Campaign Organized

Portland, May 9 (Nepal Oregon News): Nritya Mandala Mahavihara is the only one Newar Buddhist temple in the West. One of the most important peculiarities of this Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple is that it was built with materials brought to Portland all the way from Nepal.

Doors of the temple, the windows, the Toranas, all the offering Goddesses, idols of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Dakinis, Chaitya (stupa) were brought from Nepal for the Newar Buddhist temple in Portland. They have to be preserved and protected taking into consideration  the differences of climatic conditions in Kathmandu and Oregon.

Keeping the temple clean is very important, says Prajwal Vajracharya, co-founder of the Mahavihara adding:"The cleanliness drive is carried out twice a year -- for the temple's anniversary and for Buddha Jayanti celebration."

Stressing on the need for a clean and green temple, Vajracharya says that cleanliness is crucial for us because it builds up a healthy environment around the temple.

The Buddha Jayanti cleaning campaign which, which was volunteered by the temple family members, was launched on Saturday and Sunday - May 7 and 8, 2022. The volunteers who offered help for cleaning activities were provided with lunch by Prajwal Guruji.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Ihi Rituals of Three Newar Girls Organized

Portland, May 4 (Nepal Oregon News): Three girls from Newar community attended an Ihi ceremony at California Bay area on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at the house of Niroj Tamrakar.

The Ihi ceremony of Urna Tamrakar (daughter of Niroj and Karishma Tamrakar), Neebha Nakarmi (daughter of Gautam Nakarmi and Geeta Chitrakar) and Shaleen Basukala (daughter of Binay Basukala and Sushmita Joshi) was ritualized by Prajwal Vajracharya who is a a senior priest and ritual master of the Vajrayana tradition of Nepal.

Prajwal Vajracharya says:"This ritual has been in practice since hundreds of years. The Ihi ceremony is an important part of the Newar tradition where the young pre-adolescent girls make a commitment to the Bel fruit (wood apple). The Bel fruit has a peculiar quality of remaining fresh forever and healthy and long lasting. Also, wood apple tree can bring conscious mind."

-------------------------------------------------------------

Rice-feeding Ceremony Held at the Temple

Portland, May 7 (Nepal Oregon News): One of the important purposes of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA is to preserve and promote Newar culture and traditions. Life cycle rituals are crucial parts of our Newar culture. The significance of Macha Janko (rice-feeding ceremony) which is the first important life cycle ritual in a life of a person has to be seen against a backdrop of such important traditions.

The rice-feeding ceremony is a celebration in which a child is first fed rice, according to Prajwal Vajracharya, chief pujari at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA.

Throwing light on the significance of Macha Janko rituals, Prajwal Guruji said:"Although centuries old tradition, modern science has established  the fact that child's digestive system is capable of processing solid food when he or she is approximately six months old which is why Macha Janko is held for when a baby boy or baby girl turns six months old, but it can vary between a daughter or a son."

Meanwhile, a rice-feeding ceremony or Macha Janko of Avnee Maharjan (daughter of Pravin and Ambika Maharjan) was held at the Mahavihara temple. The religious rituals were performed by the Guruji at the temple.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Weekly Activities in Vihara Continue

In May, 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. Likewise, the practice of singing Charya giti was performed on every Friday.

( Rabin Man Shakya is one of the few Nepalese journalists in America)

Nepal's Amazing Sacred Buddhist Charya Nritya Dances Performed at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara

Presentation on 'Culinary Journey to Nepal' Organized

Dr. Rabin Man Shakya

(Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Anna Shustrova performing Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara charya nritya dance.)

Portland, April 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A program showing amazing and incredible Newar Buddhist charya dances was organized at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Friday, April 29, 2022. The program which showcased sacred and esoteric Newah Buddhist meditational charya dances was followed by a brilliant presentation 'Culinary Journey to Nepal' by well-known Newah chef Bikram Vaidya and sumptuous Newah style dinner  prepared by him.

The program was participated by 40 people, mostly the Americans, in person at the temple and in the zoom by 25 people. 

Prior to the starting of the cultural show, Sangha member John A. Rybak, who skillfully conducted the program, said that Charya nritya is a Buddhist ritual dance with a history going back to more than 1,000 years.

Charya meditational dances are performed by Newar Buddhist priests known as Vajracharyas as part of their esoteric meditation practices and rituals, Rybak added.

Rakta Ganesha Charya Nritya Dance:

The program of sacred Buddhist charya dances of Nepal kicked off with the Rakta Ganesha charya nritya which was performed by Sangha member Joshua Proto with flying colors. Lord Ganesha is not only a protector of Dharma practice and prosperity, but he is also known as a deity who removes obstacles and difficulties of the human beings. Rakta Ganesha nritya is a mask dance.

Refuge Charya Dance:

On the occasion, Refuge Dance and 16 offering dances were performed by the members of Hong Kong Dance Mandal in the zoom. 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.

Sixteen Offering Goddess Dance:

The Sixteen Offering Dances, also known as Sodasha Lasya in Sanskrit, are sixteen dance postures representing various musical instrument offerings as well as other sense offerings. Refuge dance and Sixteen offering dances were performed by Hong Kong Dance Mandal members: Dr Tina Ho, Shira Chan, Jennifer Tang, Teresa Tsui, Patty Chan, Mary Lau and Chin Chin Chang.

Maha Vairochana Charya Nritya Dance:

Maha Vairochana charya nritya on the occasion was offered by Dr Tina Ho of Hong Kong Dance Mandala Sangha in the zoom as well. Vairochana is considered the supreme Buddha among the Pancha Buddha. Vairochana statues are mostly depicted in white color.

Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara Charya Nritya Dance:

Amoghasiddhi and Arya Tara charya dance was put on the stage by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya and Anna Shustrova. In what appeared to be an amazing and astonishing performance, charya dancer duo Guruji Prajwal and his student Anna during the nritya have gone into a meditative state and let their bodies flow in movements with incredible hand and finger mudra. The Goddess Arya Tara and transcendent Buddha Amoghasiddhi are both green in color and as partners create perfect all-accomplishing activity that benefits sentient beings. The feminine energy of foundational wisdom and the male energy of skillful means - dance and interact in mutual recognition, respect and harmony.

Vajrasattva Charya Nritya Dance:

Charya dance 'Vajrasattva' was carried out by Sangha member Riaz Khan. 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. Vajrasattva has upright gold vajra in right hand at the level of the heart while his left hand carries a vajra handled bell turned up at the left hip.

Mahakala Charya Nritya Dance:

The Charya dance 'Mahakala' was well rendered by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya. 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 face. The Taa and Kanta Dub Dub (little handy drum) playing with the tinkling sounds of Ghunghuru makes the Mahakala dance scary and terrifying at times. Mahakala wears a tiger skin, bone ornaments and snakes and is destroyer of all fears. Like Vajarpani, Mahakala dances upon the negative forces that fuel the path to enlightenment. Mahakala nritya is a mask dance.

Vajrayogini Charya Nritya Dance:

Vajrayogini charya dance was performed by Anna Shustrova. Vajrayogini is one of the ancient classical dances of Nepal Mandala. Vajrayogini dance is performed as a ritual devotion to Goddess Vajrayogini. Vajrayogini is one of the most important Tantric Goddesses of the Kathmandu valley who is revered as the Goddess of Yogic practices. Vajrayogini is the quintessence of a selfless Dakini who always works for the happiness and prosperity of the sentient beings. She is semi-wrathful and bright-red, dancing joyfully, without shame or fear and 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 energies. 

All the Charya dances performed by Prajwal Guruji and other Sangha members during the program were beautiful and fascinating and were able to reflect the stories of the inner qualities and awakening of Buddhist deities. Sangha member Joshua Proto sang Charya giti for all the Charya dances performed on the occasion. Joshua is a seasoned and skilled Charya giti singer. Taa (little cute cymbals) was played by Joshua and Kanta Dub Dub (little handy drum) was beaten by John Rybak.

Second part of the program was the presentation on Newar food by chef Bikram Vaidya. Throwing light on the culinary heritage of Nepal, Vaidya said that art of cooking has been passed down for generations.

Newar people are known for food heritage, he reiterated. While Vaidya was making presentation, the Sangha volunteers started handing over appetizers ( a kind of Sagun) to participants to keep the guests moving throughout the evening. Appetizers consisted of mung beans batter, flavored with ginger juice and shaped into thin pancakes, topped with a hard-boiled quail egg and sauteed  and sundried whole anchovy.

Saying that Sagun is only found in Newar culture, Vaidya told the audience that Sagun is a giving tradition to wish good luck.

"Sagun is also offered during the life cycle rituals: birthdays, coming of age rites, old age rites, and the New Year etc," he informed the participants.

Vaidya's talk presented a detailed and comprehensive description about the rich and diverse Newah food heritage.

Other food provided to participants during the dinner were: Salad, Entree: Yogic Platter, Dessert and Shikerni. Newah style Kheer was one of the many items liked by the participants.

Chef Bikram Vaidya was born and raised at Ason Tole in Kathmandu, Nepal. Vaidya spent years in the hospitality business before starting a culinary career. His hospitality training started in Portland, Oregon. After graduating from Western Culinary Institute, Le Cordon Bleu, he worked at renowned restaurants and hotels with top chefs. He traveled around the world, studying international culture and cuisines with chefs and locals and working with farmers.

Chef Bikram Vaidya making a presentation on Newah food heritage.

Joshua Proto dancing Rakta Ganesh charya nritya.

Mahakala charya nritya dance presented by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya.

Charya nritya dance Vajrasattva being carried out by Riaz Khan.

__

Vajrayogini charya  nritya dance by Anna Shustrova.

________________________________

A Unique Civilization on Verge of Extinction, Says Shakya

Portland, April 30 (Nepal Oregon News): A round-table interaction on Global Newah Movement - that focused on how we move forward to achieve the goals for the next decade - was organized at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Saturday, April 30, 2022.

Six observers participated in-person at the round table interaction at the temple of Portland Baha while 20 other people from around the world took part via zoom. Daya Shakya, patron of the World Newah Organization, was the keynote speaker on the occasion.

Throwing light on the objectives of the World Newah Organization, Shakya said the main objective of WNO was to connect the Newah people around the world in a democratic forum and alliance with purpose to support and help our compatriots in Nepal in their struggle for achieving their aspirations and dreams for freedom, political and human rights and overall development in every aspects of their daily life.

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

Laying emphasis on the importance of firm goals and plans, he said the main purpose of the program held at Portland's Newah Buddhist temple was to draw attention or awareness on Newah identity in global perspectives.

Shakya added:"The landmark of sowing a seed on the Newah movement in America began with celebration of New Year Nepal Sambat in 1991 AD and Newah people of America exchanged the message of Bhintuna in Washington DC area."

The virtual interaction program, Daya said,  is an example of how we can aim to raise Newah awareness among different people across the world.

Speaking on the occasion, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Prajwal Vajracharya said that the Newah Buddhist temple was created in 2009 in Portland, USA to promote Newah Vajrayana Buddhist tradition and practices, to preserve promulgate Charya nritya and its music and crafts - such as the making of masks, costumes and jewelry used in the dances - as well as to protect and preserve sacred Buddhist art of Nepal.

Scholar on Newah Vajrayana Buddhism Vajracharya expressed the view that avenues must be explored to create job opportunities for those who earn their certificates and degrees in Nepal Bhasa, otherwise it just will be beating about the bush.

Dr Tina Ho from Hong Kong Dance Mandal offered the hope that cooperation between Hong Kong Dance Mandal and US Dance Mandal would help make Newah Buddhist heritage known to the world.

Newah Dey Daboo's former president Naresh Tamrakar, Ratna Jyoti Shakya, Bidi Kayastha, Krishna Kayastha from Canada, Naresh Shakya, Vikram  Vaidya, Paubha Sayami, Sushil Tamrakar, Bidya Dali, Crystal Marie James, Dina Shakya, Pramesh Shrestha of WNO USA chapter, Keshar Man Tamrakar of Newah American Daboo and Dr Narayan Rajbhandari and so on had participated from the zoom.

Likewise, Dr Rabin Man Shakya, Aniruddha Shakya, Ishan Shakya and Adam Bidema had taken part at the interaction in person at Portland's Newah Buddhist temple.

The interaction was focused on world Newah movement, issues on Newah identity and plans and projects to revive Nepal Bhasa language and Newah culture.

______________________________________

Lhuti Punhi Observed at Portland's Newah Buddhist Temple

Portland, April 16 (Nepal Oregon News): Thousands of devotees take holy bath in the sacred spouts at Balaju, Kathmandu during the auspicious Bais Dhara Mela on the full moon day called 'Lhuti Punhi.' On the same day, devotees also visit Nagarjuna Hill to  offer prayers to a Buddhist chaitya situated there. 

Lhuti Punhi is an auspicious day for the Newar Buddhists in Nepal. According Swayambhu Purana, Nepal Mandala used to be a huge lake in the ancient times. Vipaswi Buddha sowed a lotus flower in the center of the lake which emitted brilliant radiance of Swayambhu. Lhuti Punhi or Purnima is celebrated to commemorate it.

Lhuti Punhi was observed at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Saturday, April 15, 2022 by reciting the Manjushree Naamsangiti. Naamsangiti was recited on the occasion by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, Joshua Proto, Riyaz Khan, Adam Bidema, Pepper Kocsis, Kai Hakomori, Naveena Shakya and Dr Rabin Man Shakya.

_______________________________________

Vajracharya Calls on Rinpoche Duo

Portland, April 26 (Nepal Oregon News): Co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and prominent Newah Vajrayana Buddhism scholar Prajwal Vajracharya called on Yangsi Rinpoche and Mingyur Rinpoche at the Maitripa College in Portland on Monday, April 25, 2022.

Yangsi Rinpoche is the president of Maitripa College in Portland while Mingyur Rinpoche is a renowned Buddhist scholar from a Buddhist monastery in Kathmandu.

Dance Mandal Nepal and Prajwal Guruju's students in Kathmandu are providing Charya Nritya training to Mingyur Rinpoche's disciples from his monastery since 2018.

On the occasion, Prajwal Guruji visited library, auditoriums and administration offices of the Maitripa College. In course of the visit, Prajwal Guruji acquired information about the ongoing activities at the college. Discussions, on the occasion, were focused on Charya Nritya and various updates about the Newar Buddhist temple in Portland.

Earlier that day, a brilliant lecture on mind was presented by Mingyur Rinpoche at the hall of the Maitripa College. The program was jam-packed with the guests. The lecture program was also attended by 100 participants in the zoom.

____________________________________

Virtual Webinar on Gurumandala Puja Wraps Up

Portland, April 23 (Nepal Oregon News): The 12-week long virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja (which kicked off on Feb 5, 2022) was wrapped up on Friday, April 22, 2022 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland.

The virtual webinar which was conducted by Guruji Prajwal and which was hosted by Yangchenma Arts & Music was attended by 45 participants from 15 different countries of the world.

The concluding ceremony of the webinar on Gurumandala Puja was attended by Sangha members -- Joshua Proto, Anna Shustrova, Gabriel Quitslund, Riyaz Khan, Adam Bidema and Naveena Shakya at the Mahavihara. All the practical and theoretical aspects  of Gurumandala Puja were covered during the international webinar.

The 12-week long virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja was organized to make it more known abroad and promote ritual significance of Gurumandala Puja.

Meanwhile, weekly activities -- Dharani chanting, Sadhana practice, Buddha Bhajan practice and Charya giti singing practices -- were conducted on a regular basis at the Mahavihara and in the zoom.

(Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in America, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.)

New Controversy in NRNA - America; Two Separate NCC Committees Formed

Rabin Man Shakya

Former board member,

NRNA - NCC - USA Oregon chapter.

The recent news stories about the formation of two different national coordination  committees of NRNA - USA having two different and separate presidents Buddhi Subedi and Krishna Lamichhane  have raised questions about the validity and relevance of the NRNA movement.

If one were to examine the current controversy regarding the formation of two different and separate NRNA USA national coordination committees, one can easily conclude that the NRNA movement is gradually inching towards becoming a global forum of Nepalese diaspora with lust for power, becoming an organization of opportunists and careerists, becoming an organization of people raising the flags of different mainstream political parties of Nepal. 

People even do not understand why there are  multiple presidents in the International Coordination Committee of the NRNA? Why do NRNs keep washing dirty linen in public? They do not have any shame? They do not have any feeling or responsibility towards the community and the nation? Can't they rise above the dirty politics?

The current NRNA - America controversy looks like a circus scenario where verbal abuse, accusations and counter-accusations are rife. The recent NRNA - America controversy is the clearest evidence yet that it has only widened the rift that has plagued NRNA for last couple of years.

The impartial and nonaligned NRNs still do not understand why NRNA movement has been bitterly polarized and overtly politicized? Is it because of arrogant attitude of Nepal's political parties or because some NRNs are just "followers and tails" of the notorious political parties of Nepal? Probably, little bit of both. Many NRNA leaders get blessings from the mainstream political parties of Nepal. Why so many  internal disputes are surfacing in the NRNA? Why fighting, sloganeering, controversial statements and disrespectful acts are on the rise in NRNA? 

Today more than ever, NRNA is dominated by the politically motivated people. Nepotism, lust for power, impunity and corruption are at their heights in Nepal. The ordinary people are suffocated and voiceless. Who listens to the voices of the people these days when everyone is carried away by illusions created by the corrupt Nepalese politicians. Have NRNs been able to voice the issues and problems of the voiceless people of Nepal?

The favorite game of NRNA leaders is the blame game. The rival NRNA leaders are engaged more in the blame game than doing some soul searching to see where they have failed.

NRNA is plagued with factionalism. Factional politics and infighting have become particularly intense in the recent years. Since each faction within the NRNA is vying to meet the interest of its own camp than the overall interest of the broader NRNA, it would be naive to expect them to serve the genuine and broader NRNA interest.

Bottomline: NRNA should not be a political platform and NRNs should not be contracted by viruses of political maneuvers and bickering. The political parties of Nepal should not be engaged in treating NRNA organization as their sister organization. 

(Rabin Man Shakya is a well-known Nepali journalist in the USA)

Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) to Host an Outdoor Event at Cook Park to Mark Bikram Sambat New Year 2079

Nepal Oregon News reporter

Portland, April 12, (Nepal Oregon News): Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the last couple of years have been so hard for the Nepalese community organizations in Oregon, USA.

But this year, Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) is going to celebrate the Bikram Sambat New Year 2079 by hosting an outdoor event at the Cook Park, Tigard, Oregon on Saturday, April 16, 2022.

According to NAO sources, NRNA - USA - Oregon chapter is supporting the NAO event by providing dinner to the picnic guests,  and that "the NAO new year picnic is basically a potluck event." Sports events and games including 'Tug of War' will be organized during the picnic, the source added. 

Situated on the banks of Tualatin river, the 79-acre Cook Park is one of the biggest parks in greater Portland area offering various sports and picnic spots, as well as a playground and a boat ramp.

Meanwhile, Khai Sanhu celebrated by Newah people of the Nepal Mandala  once every year also coincides on the day of   Bikram Sambat New Year event. Although majority of festivals celebrated  by Newah people are based on Nepal Sambat Lunar Calendar, some festivals are observed according to the Bikram Sambat too.

One of them is Khai Sanhu otherwise also known as Mekh Sankranti or Baisakh Sankranti which falls on the first day of the Bikram Sambat calendar.

On the day of Khai Sanhu, Newah people of Nepal cook and prepare a kind of soup which is called Khai Kwati. This soup is bitter in taste.

The Khai Kwati is prepared with various healthy beans and green vegetables including Kunabu, new leaves of Khai Basi, small and big peas, Lainsu, onions, shallots, fried rice flour etc.

This time of the season is very hot in the Kathmandu valley. People feel general malaise and also usually have stomach-related problems.

According to Newah Vajrayana Buddhism, Khai Kwati helps people to get rid of many stomach-related diseases by killing harmful bacteria.

Similarly, in a statement issued today, president of Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) Daya Shakya has extended best wishes to all Nepalese community members in Oregon, USA on the occasion of the Bikram Sambat new year 2079.

Stating that NAO was established 21 years ago on this day with the objective of unifying all the community members taking into consideration the idea of unity in diversity,  Shakya said:"NAO once again reiterates its commitment to the community service."

Saying that "We have been able to assemble a talented team in our committee, one that is deeply committed to our community," Daya  emphasized the need for searching our identity and keeping in deep touch with the motherland.

Even if we are far apart from the homeland, our love for the motherland is just unequivocal and natural, he further said.

Also, in the statement, Daya has urged the community members to take active part at the events and programs of the NAO.

(Nepal Oregon News writer Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in the USA)

Fifth World Newah Day at Portland Baha: Celebrating Newah Cuisines in USA

Cultural and Traditional Values Have Always Been Sacred to Newah People

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 27 (Nepal Oregon News): Fifth World Newah Day  was observed at  the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA on Saturday, March 26, 2022 with various scholarly presentations, singing of a Buddha Bhajan and reciting of a poem in Nepal Bhasa.

But, most importantly, the center of attraction on the occasion was the Newah Jhwo Bhoye (a Newah feast tradition in which participants or guests are seated on long mats). It was kind of a mini Newah food festival organized at the end of the program to mark the Day. The Newah Jhwo Bhoye was very unique and unprecedented in the sense that it is the first Newah Jhwo Bhoye organized in Portland, USA after the relaxation of COVID-19 pandemic guidelines. The Newah as well as American guests were seen sitting cross-legged in a line whereas the Sangha volunteers were seen busy serving Baji, Rice, Chhoyela, Bhuti, Simpu Kwa, Aalu Achar, Lain Achar, Tofu Curry, Musya Palu, Pachhai Tarkari, Dhau, Sisa Busa and even Jeri Mari and Dudha Bhari and so on. According to Guru Prajwal Vajracharya of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM), 21 different kinds of food were served on the occasion. The Bhoye was served on the 'Kayan Yagu Dema' (Newah traditional brass plates) in stead of the 'Laptes'.

On the occasion, prior to Newah Jhwo Bhoye, making a brilliant presentation on "Identification of Newahs", Prajwal Vajracharya, a scholar on Newah Vajrayana Buddhism, said that so many temples and historical monuments were created by the Newah artisans in the ancient and medieval periods.

Displaying interesting and unique pictures of Newah temples and stupas at the program, Guru Prajwal who is also co-founder of NMM,  said:"Ancient temples and stupas built by Newah architects and sculptors in the Nepal Mandala are part of Nepal's glorious national history."

Lauding the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Newah architects and sculptors, Prajwal Vajracharya, who is a priest of one of the Vajracharya Buddhist lineages of Nepal, said:"Temples, stupas and historical monuments scattered throughout the nook and corner of Nepal Mandala on the one hand show the flair of the Newah people to arts, sculpture, stone carving, masonry, carpentry, and architecture, you can see so much arts reflected on the doors, windows and Toranas at the temples, and on the other hand indicate the significance of religious reverence and harmony."

Noting that cultural and traditional values have always been sacred to the Newah people, Rev Guruju Vajracharya shed light on the preponderance of historical monuments, stupas, Viharas and temples in the Nepal Mandala. He said:"Every five minutes walk, you find the Viharas, the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas and other deities are living there."

Vajracharya, who is also Chief Pujari at the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple in Portland went on saying:"Keeping our Newah identity alive and saving our cultural and ritual traditions in the USA, that is a formidable challenge, but we are committed to it."

On the occasion, Daya Shakya, patron of World Newah Organization (WNO), made a presentation on "From Gallis and Nanis to the Alleys of Halin."

Daya's talk also presented a detailed and comprehensive description on the history and activities of the World Newah Organization established in 2011 by the London Declaration, WNO decision in 2017 to observe the last Saturday of the month of March as World Newah Day (WND).

In discussing the activities and objectives of the WNO, Daya Shakya also a Nepalese community leader in Oregon, said WNO was launched to act like an umbrella organization of all the Newah forums and associations in Nepal and abroad.

Exploring the avenues of the broader Newah movement, Shakya said WNO is a global entity to discuss the Newah issues among the wide range of underprivileged and deprived groups.

Our annual WND celebration is an important national as well as international event of the year for the Newahs, one that the WNO has been holding since 2018 to disseminate the idea that civilization of Newah people should be recognized, he added.

Another important and relevant presentation on "Newah Culinary Heritage: Medical Cuisine of the World" was made by well-known Newah chef Bikram Vaidya. He said:"Each dish served during feasts and festivals have symbolic significance."

Vaidya, who is also former faculty at the Oregon Culinary Institute in Portland, said:"Different kind of foods are presented for different occasions, considering the seasonal climatic conditions and nutritional needs for human body."

During the presentation, Vaidya showed different pictures highlighting the Newah food to be used on different occasions and festivals.

Vaidya shared the information that Kwati (a thick soup consisting of various beans) has a historical significance in Newah culture because when food supply used to be scarce, Kwati provided farmers with much nourishment during monsoon's busy-crop planting season.

Similarly, talking about the diverse Newah cuisines, Vaidya said:"There are over 200 dishes in Newah cuisines. Food is essential part of Newah culture".

 "Community members come to celebrate festival, bring everyone together. Food is the biggest part of our culture. Without food, there is no festival", he said. 

Lavish gastronomic affairs is the key during ritual and religious ceremonies. Newars are renowned for their festivals and feasts, Vaidya concluded.

During a brief presentation, Dr Rabin Man Shakya of the Nepal Oregon News threw light on the role and contribution made by Guru Prajwal Vajracharya and the Portland's Newah Buddhist temple for protecting and promoting Newah Buddhist heritage and rituals in the USA.

Dr Shakya said:"World Newah Day (WND) is an opportunity for the Newah people across the world to renew our commitment for Newah cause in challenging times. WND is a day to reflect on the messages and teachings of late Newah luminaries."

Expressing the belief that various activities carried out by Hong Kong Dance Mandala Sangha and Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara would enhance and enrich Newah culture and rituals in Hong Kong and the USA respectively, Dr Tina Ho from Hong Kong said in the zoom:"We do not want to let Newah Buddhist rituals and Charya dances disappear totally."

Dr Tina Ho, a prominent Charya dancer in Hong Kong, said:"Newah Buddhist Charya dance is an esoteric dance form that used to be exclusively performed by Vajracharyas within the Newar community. We are also students of Prajwal Guruju. Hong Kong Dance Mandala Sangha is always committed to promote and preserve the esoteric Newah Buddhist traditional dance."

Similarly, a poem in Nepal Bhasa "Bhingu Bicha Yaye Nu" (Let's think in a good, positive way) was recited by Sangha member Naveena Shakya.

A Buddha Bhajan was performed eventually on the occasion by Joshua Proto, Casey Redman, Mario Mastrangelo, Riyaz Khan and Yadav. The Bajan (a kind of drum) for the Bhajan was played by Satya Bayu (an American artist).

About 40 people (including Newahs and Americans) participated at the Portland's World Newah Day celebrations at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara whereas 10 people from Hong Kong, Nepal, USA, India and Canada took part at the program from the zoom.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Sitar Concert Held at Portland's Nepalese Buddhist Temple

A Sitar concert by Josh Feinberg was organized at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara on Saturday, March 19, 2022. This was the first Sitar concert at the Portland Baha - attended by over 45 people -- after the relaxation of the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines.

Nevertheless, masks were mandatory at the concert, so was the proof of vaccination or negative test result of COVID-19 within last 72 hours.

At the beginning of the concert, Guru Prajwal Vajracharya - senior pujari at the Mahavihara - gave a short introduction of musician duo Josh Feinberg and Ravi Albright.

The enthralling and mesmerizing Sitar rendition of Josh Feinberg was accompanied in Tabla by Ravi Albright.

Prior to the beginning of the Sitar concert, Maestro Feinberg said:"I am performing in Portland for the first time in two and half years. I am so happy to be playing music again."

Remembering about the hardships during the pandemic, the noted Sitarist said:"The last couple of years have been so hard for me and so many others. I am filled with a sense of gratitude for my kids, my music and the ability to do what I love - spending my time creating music, teaching and bringing beauty and joy into the world."

Josh went on saying:"I am so grateful to be offering this music at the Mahavihara, a beautiful Nepali dance temple, with my long time friend and exuberant Tabla player Ravi Albright."

Josh, on the occasion, performed (1) Basant Pancham Taal Ki Sawari + Tintal, (2) Charukesh in Sitarkhani and (3) Bhairavi Dadra.

Josh's new album 'Time does not exist for light' was released in Australia early on in COVID-19.

Josh Feinberg is celebrated as one of the world's leading young Sitarists, and is hailed as one of the most original and dynamic Sitar maestros of his generation.

As a Jewish-American-Hindustani artist, Josh is a self described 'musical immigrant' in the field of Indian classical music.

Ravi Albright, who is a professional Tabla player, is the founder of Seattle Tabla Institute in Seattle, Washington, and also the adjunct faculty of music at Lewis and Clark College in Portland. Ravi has been a student of North American Indian classical tabla drumming in both India and the US since his youth. He is one of only a few ganda-banda (formally recognized) disciples of Pundit Anindo Chatterjee of Kolkata, India.

__________________________________________

 

Falgun Purnima Observed at Portland Baha

Falgun Purnima was observed at the Nritya Mandala Mahavirara, Portland on Thursday, March 17, 2021 by reciting Manjushree Naamsangiti.

Naamsangiti was recited by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, Joshua Proto, Riyaz Khan, Naveena Shakya and Dr Rabin Man Shakya at the Mahavihara.

However, Naamsangiti was also recited in the zoom and was participated by 10 other people from Hong Kong, India and America. 

Each Purnima (full moon day) is sacred and holy for the Buddhists. Although the holi festival on the day of Falgun Purnima is basically a Hindu tradition, the other two events: Chakan Dyo Jatra and Gurumapa Yat Ja Nakegu events also coincide on the Day of Falgun Purnima. Chakan Dyo and Gurumapa events are related to Newah Vajrayana Buddhism.

__________________________________________

International Virtual Webinar on Gurumandala Puja Going On

The 12-week first international virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja hosted by Yangchenma Arts & Music, Los Angeles is going on very successfully.

The virtual webinar is being attended by 45 participants from 15 different countries of the world.

Co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and its chief pujari Prajwal Vajracharya is conducting the international webinar.

According to Guruji Vajracharya, this month, the participants were taught about the meaning and scope of the Gurumandala Puja.

Guruji Vajracharya who is also an expert on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, said:"In broader sense, Guru refersto the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha while Mandala's meaning goes beyond the body, speech and mind of oneself whereas  Puja means rituals and worshipping."

Therefore, Gurumandala Puja can broadly be defined as the worshipping of the body, speech and mind for attaining Nirvana, the Guruji added.

The webinar on Gurumandala Puja is going to be wrapped up on April 23, 2022, said Guruji Vajracharya.

It is to be noted that Gurumandala Puja is one of the oldest and most important rituals of Newah Vajrayana tradition.

Meanwhile, regular Dharani reciting was held once a week on each Tuesday virtually while Sadhana practice and Buddha Bhajans were conducted in the zoom as usual on every Wednesday. Also, Charya giti practice is being held once a week on Friday at the Mahavihara in the zoom.

( Nepal Oregon News writer Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in America, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.)

  

 

Prajwal Vajracharya Stresses Need for Promoting Newar Buddhism, Newar Culture in America

First Int'l Virtual Webinar on Gurumandala Puja Organized in USA

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, March 3, (Nepal Oregon News): In what appeared to be the first international virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja attended by 45 participants from 15 different countries of the world, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Guruji Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya said:"The Gurumandala Puja vidhi purification ritual is the most common ritual practiced in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism in Nepal."

The 12-week long virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja which kicked off on Friday, Feb 5, 2022 is being organized to make it more known abroad and promote ritual significance of Gurumandala Puja, said Vajracharya who is also the chief priest of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the only Newar Vajrayana Buddhist temple in the USA.

The international virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja is being hosted by Yangchenma Arts & Music every Friday from Feb 5 to April 23, 2022 for twelve weeks.

Also, five Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara are taking part at the Gurumandala webinar at the Mahavihara temple: Terry Satterthwaite, Naveena Shakya, Joshua Proto, Riyaz Khan and Anastasia Roderick.

Yangchenma Arts & Music is a community organization based in Los Angeles  and is aimed at preserving, promoting and celebrating the richness and diversity of human cultures through their artistic and musical wisdom, traditions, kept alive through the connection and shared experience of humans throughout the world.

Touching on the history of Gurumandala Puja, Vajracharaya who is a scholar on Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, said the ritual has been passed down for 1000 years.  The Gurumandala is so important that without it there is no Mahayana and Vajrayana in Nepal, he added.

Laying more emphasis on the importance of Gurumandala Puja in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, Guruju Prajwal said:"At all important moments in life, from birth to death, this important Newar Buddhist ritual is performed to remove obstacles and bring spiritual blessings."

Some of the prime concerns or benefits of Gurumandala Puja are: It teaches you to go to the right path in life, to become spiritually perfect, to bring physical wellness, to give teacher-like feeling to one's own body and to aim for attaining Nirvana, said Vajracharya who is a  rituals master as well.

 

Underscoring the purpose of the course, Pundit Vajracharya who is also a noted Charya dance teacher said:"The objective of the international virtual webinar is not only to familiarize  the participants with the rituals of Gurumandala Puja, but also to provide them information and study about astrology, give knowledge about the lines of chanting and ritualization of Strotas of Gurumandala Puja. He also highlighted the importance of ritual objects used in the Gurumandala Puja.

Stressing the need for promoting Newar Buddhism and Newar culture in America, Prajwal Guruju said that the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara has been carrying out a lot of activities, programs and events to enhance Newar culture in USA. 

While during the first virtual lecture series, Guruju Vajracharya shed light on the introduction and meaning of Gurumandala Puja, the second webinar focused on role of Gurumandala Puja in the life cycle rituals.

Although Buddhism is one of the leading religions in the world, little is known about Newar Buddhism, that is why the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA is relentlessly working to promote and enhance Newar Buddhism and Newar culture in America, added Vajracharya.

The notable presence on the webinar was of Dr Manik Bajracharya who is a visiting professor since 2011 at Heidelberg University in Germany. Dr Manik has published several articles on Gurumandala Puja and Newar Buddhist traditions. Dr Manik along with Guruju Prajwal threw light on how important is Gurumandala in the life of the people.

Gurumandala ritual is a worshipping offering of the Mt Merumandala. During the Gurumandala rituals, a Ratnamandala is drawn. The Ratnamandala is kind of a geometric design drawn on the floor by abrading white limestone powder or sand.

Guruji Prajwal's talk also dealt with details about ancient and medieval Mahasiddhas like Shantikaracharya - the first Bajracharya Guru of the Nepal Mandala, Surat Bajra Bajracharya, Manju Bajra Bajracharya and Lila Bajra Bajracharya etc.

Informing the participants that Swayambhu Maha Chaitya was founded by Buddhist Mahayana Dharma Guru Shantikaracharya by covering the Dharma Dhatu inside the stupa, Guruji Prajwal added that it was Hungkara Bajra who offered Vajrayogini's Diksha to Guru Rinpoche.

According to the Charya Giti, there were 75 Mahasiddhas in Nepal Mandala. Biography of 32 Mahasiddhas have been written so far, the Guruji said.

Giving details about the Puja, he said:"The Gurumandala Puja begins with offering honor to Surya Archana, then declaration of ritual performer's geographic location of the ritual site, astronomical state of the sun, moon and other planets at the time, and intention of the patron for doing the ritual."

"We then ask permission from the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha to conduct the ritual and perform a self-empowerment, to create our own Mandala and transform ourselves  into the Buddha of purification - Vajrasattva."

The Guruji further stated: "Within the Mandala of Vajrasattva, we invite all the protector deities and the artful deity for protection."

Guruji Prajwal reiterated that the virtual webinar on Gurumandala Puja consisted of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the Puja. Starting from Friday, March 4, 2022 the webinar will focus on chanting Gurumandala strotas according to a manual, the Guruji said.

______________________________________

Si Punhi Observed at Nritya Mandala Mahavihara

Si Punhi full moon day was observed on Feb 16, 2022 by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland, USA by organizing chanting of Maha Manjushree Naamsangiti in the zoom.

Fifteen people from USA and Hong Kong had taken part at the virtual Naamsangiti reciting.

Naamsangiti, on the occasion, was chanted by  Joshua Proto, Anastasia Roderick, Ashley Low, Casey Redman, Riyaz Khan and Naveena Shakya,   and was followed by other virtual participants.

On the day of Si Punhi, the month-long Swasthani sacred story reciting festival ends. Si Punhi is also known as Maghi Purnima in Nepal.

________________________________________

Weekly activities in Vihara

Dharani chanting every Tuesday: Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's Dharani recitation is the only chanting program of this kind in the West, and helps to preserve this special heritage. The session begins with a Refuge prayer, the Guru Bandana. This is followed by a protective Dharani, the Graha Dasha Ya Paath, and then the Saptavidhana - or Seven Limb prayer. These are followed by mantras to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas and then recitation of a variety of appropriate Dharani. The Pragya Paramita Hridayam Sutra concludes the chanting and is followed by a brief Dharma talk by Prajwal Guruju.

Singing Practice each Friday: The practice of singing Charya giti is a Sadhana of its own. It is deity yoga practice in simple Sanskrit, for which Prajwal Guruju will provide the lyrics. These songs focus on the Gods, Goddesses and philosophy of Vajrayana Buddhism.

Sadhana Practice and Buddha Bhajan chanting every Wednesday: Buddha Bhajan chanting is practiced every Wednesday. Buddha Bhajans are chanted by Prajwal Guruju  along with hosts of other participants on the zoom. Likewise, Sadhana practice is also performed on every Wednesday on the zoom at the Vihara. Sadhana is a Sanskrit word that means spiritual exercise. Sadhana practice can bring positive changes into one's life and has many benefits for mental as well as physical health. It can also be performed in order to attain detachment from worldly things. Sadhana is a spiritual practice in which the practitioner invokes divinity, identifying and absorbing it into himself. It is the primary form of meditation in Vajrayana Buddhism. This Sadhana time also includes a Dharma talk by Prajwal Guruju.

( Nepal Oregon News writer Rabin Man Shakya, a Nepali journalist in the US, is also a Life Member of World Newah Organization.)