Prajwal - Teya Wedding Solemnized as per Newar Vajrayana Tradition

 Rabin Man Shakya

(Prajwal Vajracharya and Teya De Sesa during the wedding ceremony at the Vihara in Portland.)

Portland, Jan 28 (Nepal Oregon News): A marriage ceremony of Teya De Sesa and Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya was solemnized on Saturday, Jan 27, 2024 at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara by priest Helen Appell as per the Newar Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.

(Helen Appell ritualizing the nuptial -tie of Prajwal and Teya.)

Helen, who is the founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first Newar Buddhist temple and study center in the West, is a serious Buddhist practitioner and has studied Vajrayana for many years in India, Nepal and the US.

The wedding ceremony at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara is a historical moment because the nuptial-tie between a Vajracharya Guruju and an American lady was solemnized for the first time by a Westerner Vajrayana priest at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first and only one Newar Vajrayana vihara outside of Nepal.

All traditional Newar Vajrayana rituals and chantings including Kalash Puja were performed by priest Helen during the wedding.

Prajwal is himself a Newar Vajrayana priest and Teya, an American, is affiliated to Pureland Farms, a Tibetan monastery in California. But they have made an important decision to hold each other's hand and share their future as husband and wife.

The wedding ceremony of Teya and Prajwal in Portland was arranged by Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's Sarvasangha.

Wearing a red Sari embroidered with gold thread and dotted with sequins, wearing all the required gold ornaments bride Teya and appropriately attired groom Prajwal sat across from priest Helen.

Prajwal and Teya then presented each other with Kisli, small bowls containing rice, coins and betel nuts, while prayed for good health and long life together.

Newar wedding rituals include many unique features, including the use of Sinha-Mu (five-story stupa-like colored powder holder), from which they were given Tikas. Likewise, there was also a brief mirror reflection (Jwola Nhayakan) ritual.

Next, Swayambar was the most important component of the wedding ritual in which the bride circled the groom three times and placed a 'dubo' garland on the neck of the groom. After that, the groom also placed 'dubo' garland on bride's neck. Circumventing the groom three times binds the couple's energies together and brings peace, happiness and prosperity.

At the same time, under Shiffala Lwakegu ritual, the heads of the bride and groom were banged together; and rice, flowers and fruits were poured (shifan luigu) over the heads of the bride and groom.

The wedding rituals also included offering of 'Thaye Bhu' feast for the groom and the bride, and Khen Sagan in which wine, fish and eggs were offered to the bride, groom and the family.

'Thaye Bhu' is a variety of 84 different foods prepared on an extra large plate (bhu) for auspicious occasions especially the wedding ceremonies.

Likewise, little later, the newly wed couple and friends who were present at the wedding ceremony circumvented the temple three time.

Similarly, parade of the newly wed - Janti - was taken out around the neighborhood of the Mahavihara, and the ongoing cars on the streets honked at the procession as a welcome gesture.

Among the guests, the American as well as the Nepalese ladies were dressed in the red Saris, whereas men were seen in Daura Suruwal, suit and Nepali Topi.

There were about 55 guests at the wedding ceremony at the Mahavihara. Present on the occasion were the board members of the Mahavihara, Sangha members and representatives of the Nepali community in Portland.

The wedding ceremony was followed by a lunch. A breakfast was also served in the morning.

It is to be noted that Prajwal - Teya wedding was solemnized on Sunday, Dec 3, 2023 at the Pureland Farm in California as per Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

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Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Greets New Year 2024 with Dhalan Danegu Rituals

Portland, Jan 2 (Nepal Oregon News): A New Year celebration purification ritual - Dhalan Danegu - was held at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihar on Monday, Jan 1, 2024. The purification ritual which was held for about three hours was performed and led by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya.

Altogether, 22 people - American and Nepali Sangha members - joined  the Puja for purifying and reviving old energy of the previous year and for overcoming obstacles and opening to fresh new potential through the annual New Year's 'Dhalan Danegu' ritual at the Mahavihara.

'Dhalan Danegu' which originated in the third century in the Nepal Mandala is a ritual to purify mind and body. It is a ritual dedication to Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, according to Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest.

The Gurumandala Workshop trainees - Riyaz Khan, Gabriel Quitslund and Naveena Shakya - were also among the participants of the purification rituals.

The traditional community ceremony honored oneself and others by making offerings of purified elements and was guided by using one's own mandala of sand.

A special Puja Sankalpa consisting of Jaki, Sinha, Ita, Dhup, Swan, Jajanka, Taaye etc was carefully prepared for each participant who were seen sitting cross-legged in different lines inside the temple.

A sand mandala, a circle, or cosmic diagram for use in ritual or inner visualization, had been drawn for the use of each participant. Also, three Gojas on the sand mandala were worshipped during the ritual.

On the occasion, participants were also given time for short meditation. Similarly, a long Pasuka (sacred thread) was used, spread, passed over to all the New Year purification ritual participants. It was an important component of purification ritual.

Purification ritual event was followed by a Nepali-style dinner at the Mahavihara.

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Teaching on Pancha Buddha Organized at Pureland Farm, CA

Portland, Jan 12 (Nepal Oregon News): A sacred Buddhist art and dance retreat 'Mandala of the Five Buddha Families' was organized at Pureland Farms, California from Jan 5-11, 2024. The retreat was conducted jointly by Tiffany Gyatso and Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya.

The retreat at the Pureland Farms was an opportunity for the participants to get first-hand information and knowledge about arts on five Buddhas and Pancha Buddha Charya Nritya from the experienced  and seasoned teachers. 

Speaking on the occasion, Tiffany Gyatso said:"A Mandala, meaning 'circle' in Sanskrit, is a geometric representation of enlightened wholeness."

The participants were given opportunity to connect with the Mandala of  the five Buddha families through art and drawings.

During the retreat, Tiffany Gyatso presented a detailed and comprehensive description on how to complete the Mandala uniting all the elements together in the complete circle.

During the five day retreat, Tiffany Gyatso, a Tibetan Thangka painter and sacred geometry artist, dealt with practice through art, creating and coloring the Mandala with mindful awareness. Each day was devoted by Tiffany to one of the five Dhyani Buddhas during the art retreat.

Meanwhile, also during the retreat, Prajwal Vajracharya, noted Charya dance teacher threw light on different aspects of the Pancha Buddha charya dance.

He said:"Pancha Buddha charya dance is performed in honor of the five Dhyani Buddhas - Vairochana, Aksobhya, Ratna Sambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddhi."

Prajwal went on saying:"The Pancha Buddha Charya Dance is attributed to Lord Buddha. Pancha Buddha or five wisdom Buddhas  are the five transcendental Buddhas of Tantric Buddhism."

Different colorful costumes used by the Charya dancers are symbolic to sky, earth, water, fire and air, said Prajwal Guruji adding:"Each performing Charya dancer has particular posture, color and direction."

Laying emphasis on the power of hand Mudra, the Guruji also explained the role of sitting meditation, and need for making a mind connection to the deity.

Saying that Charya nritya is key to enlightenment, Prajwal Guruji underscored the importance of the five wisdom Buddhas and their vehicles.

During the retreat, Prajwal Guruji performed singing for Pancha Buddha charya dance. Likewise, he also demonstrated the Pancha Buddha charya dance for the participants.

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Sacred Rituals Performed to Pay Tributes to late Tamrakar

Portland, Jan 25 (Nepal Oregon News):  Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya performed the 45th day ceremony death rituals for late Madan Sen Tamrakar on Wednesday, Jan 24, 2024 at the residence of Mrinal Sen Tamrakar, son of late Tamrakar.

The Gurumandala Puja, Mamaki Puja and other rituals were conducted by Guruji Prajwal. 

The Shraddh rituals are conducted so that the heavenly journey of the deceased soul after death is comfortable and stress-free.

Madan Sen Tamrakar, 67, passed away on Dec 12, 2023. His antyesthi samskara (funeral sacrament) was held in Portland on Dec 13, 2023. 

(Rabin Man Shakya is a Nepali journalist in the US) 

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Jana Gayak Bhrigu Ram Shrestha (1990 - 2080 BS) Who Made a Mark in Nepal Bhasa Music and Singing

 Renowned Newah Singer Dies at 91

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

 

(From left to right: Juju Bhai, late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha, Dr Rabin Man Shakya, Prof Dr Sushil Bajracharya at a program held by Mettagaar  at Hotel Yellow Pagoda, Kathmandu in 2017.)

(Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha singing a Bhajan at the program in Hotel Yellow Pagoda to felicitate centenarian Satya Mohan Joshi and others in 2017)

Portland, Jan 15 (Nepal Oregon News): Dyo Yata Sinha Swan, Maya Re Ratna Ji Nan Chanke Maya, Yo Jita Na Desh Yo and hundreds of other Nepal Bhasa songs were immortalized by this singer. Bhrigu Ram Shrestha who was battling against cancer died at Bir Hospital, Kathmandu on Sunday, Jan 14, 2024. Late Shrestha was 91.

Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was born in the month of Kartik, 1990 BS to father Asha Ram Shrestha and mother Sanu Nani Shrestha at Teoda Tole in Kathmandu. Inspired by his father, late Shrestha started singing at the age of 7-8.

Many of his Nepal Bhasa songs were broadcast in "Jeevan Daboo" a Nepal Bhasa program in the Radio Nepal. But when "Jeevan Daboo" was unceremoniously scrapped by the Radio Nepal and all other democratic and political activities were banned by the Panchayat system, it was late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha who thundered against the authoritarian and brutal political system with his famous Nepal Bhasa song "Yo Jita Na Desh Yo, Tar Jin Mankha Jigu Desh Go'

Late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was very actively associated with various Gyan Mala Bhajan groups in Kathmandu. In fact, late Shrestha had vocalized  a number of Gyan Mala Bhajan songs as well.

Late Shrestha appeared in cameo roles in historical Nepali motion pictures "Maitighar" and "Hijo Aaj Bholi". He was also cast in historical Nepal Bhasa movies "Silu" and "Rajamati". Silu's main actress was late Nabeena Shrestha who was late Bhriguram's daughter.

A number of gramophone records, compact cassettes and audio CDs consisting of late Shrestha's songs were launched during his lifetime. Nepal Bhasa audio CD "Ilan Pijwogu Sa" was one of the important CDs of late Bhrigu Ram. The lyrics for songs in this CD were written by Durga Lal Shrestha, Bhrigu Ram Shrestha and Bishnu Hari Paradesi where as music for the songs were provided by Narayan Gopal, Siddhi Ratna Sthapit, Bhrigu Ram Shrestha, Dwarika Lal Joshi and Darshan Das Shrestha.

Also, very few people remember  that late Bhrigu Ram Shrestha was actively associated with the then Nepal Soviet Cultural Association in Kathmandu. In fact, he was the cultural in-charge at the Association. Late Shrestha visited the USSR in 1978 AD at the friendly invitation of Moscow-based Soviet Nepal Friendship Society.

Meanwhile, on behalf of Nepal Russia Friendship and Cultural Association, its general secretary Swaraj Shakya has paid tributes to late Shrestha and has extended heartfelt condolences.

Nepal Oregon News from Portland, USA is deeply saddened by the demise of Jana Gayak Bhrigu Ram Shrestha. In the death of respected Shrestha, the nation in general and Newar people in particular have lost a luminary and a shining star in the constellation of Nepal Bhasa musicians and singers.

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

Nepalese Community in Portland, USA Celebrates New Year 2024 with Various Events

Nepa Chhen, a Non-profit,  Brings Joy to the Nepalese Community

 

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Jan 2 (Nepal Oregon News): A reception program was organized by Nepa Chhen, a non-profit, which aims to build a Nepali community house in Portland, on Dec 31, 2023 at Nekusingh Memorial Theater of  Hollywood Taekwondo School in Portland to mark the NewYear 2024.

This is the first time that the Gregorian Calendar New Year was being celebrated by Nepa Chhen among the Nepalese community members after the coronavirus pandemic, according to Nepa Chhen sources.

At the beginning of the program, octogenarian Newar lady Devi Laxmi Maharjan (Diwakar's mother) felicitated Krishna Kafle, a young popular singer from Nepal, by wrapping auspicious Khata on him.

The New Year 2024 eve reception of the Nepalese community was a happy confluence of wining and dining with different Nepali cuisines as well as lots of music and dances. 

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

Binit Shrestha, Madhav Khadka presented various songs on the occasion whereas Shelba Tamrakar and Prabin Maharjan came up with beautiful dances. A dance by little girl Neeva Maharjan (daughter of Diwakar Maharjan) stole the whole show.

The main attraction of the program was the local Nepali rock band 'Mandah' which offered various songs continuously for couple of hours.

The Mandah consisted of artistes like Dr Manoj Kansakar (guitar), Gauri Raj Vaidya (vocal), Prajanna Tuladhar, George Hottenroth, Bikram Vaidya (drums).

The New Year eve program which was attended by about 150 people from different walks  of life was conducted by Nileema Ozha, women's secretary of NRNA - USA - Oregon chapter.

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

 

Meanwhile, separate New Year 2024 related events and programs were held by other Nepalese organizations in Portland as well.

A purification 'Mha Puja' ritual ceremony was organized on Monday, Jan 1, 2024 at Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara where 22 Nepalese and American Sangha members participated at the Newar Vajrayana ritual ceremony conducted by Guruji Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya.

Likewise, to mark the New Year 2024, Portland Nepali Vibes organized a New Year Dhamaka at Multnomah Arts  Center, Portland on Saturday, Dec 30, 2023 with the participation of popular young Nepali singer Krishna Kafle and other local artistes.

(Rabin Shakya is a Nepali journalist in USA)

  

Christmas Celebration at Corinne's House in Portland

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Dec 26 (Nepal Oregon News): Corinne Nakamura-Rybak, a board member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and her husband John Rybak, an active Sangha member hosted a Christmas dinner at their residence in Southeast Portland on Monday, Dec 25, 2023.

Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland and his wife Teya De Sesa and John's mom also attended the Christmas dinner. Sangha members Gabriel Quitslund, Aniruddha Shakya, Naveena Shakya and others were also present on the occasion.

The Christmas party, which was an amazing and fun-filled event, was not just wining and dining, it was also an opportunity for friendly interaction among attendees.

The party attendees and children had an opportunity to play a game called "Watch Your Mouth" as well as table-tennis (ping pong) in the basement.

Today more than ever, Christmas has become a world wide celebration, a celebration observed by Christians as well as non-Christians all over the world. Kudos to Corinne and John for organizing the event.

(Rabin Shakya is a Nepali journalist in USA)

Charya Nritya Veterans Perform Dances to Mark NMM's 14th Anniversary

Newar Buddhist Temple in Portland, USA Celebrates 14 Years with Various Programs

Dr Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Nov 11, (Nepal Oregon News): Various programs were organized all day long on Friday, Nov 10, 2023 to mark the fourteenth anniversary of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara (NMM) in Portland, USA. Nritya Mandala Mahavihara is the only one Newar Buddhist monastery in America.

The NMM's anniversary celebration kicked off with Gurumandala  and Mamaki Puja which  were ritualized by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya, a 35th - generation Vajrayana priest and participated by six other Sangha members: Joshua Proto, Anna Shustrova, Adam Bidema, Anastasia Roderick, Naveena Shakya and Gabriel Quitslund. 

108 auspicious butter lamps were lit on the occasion followed by a refuge dance.

Meanwhile, evening celebrations of the anniversary started with educational Buddha Bhajans. Buddha Bhajans like (1) Dasaparamita Purna Yana, (2) Jaya Namo Sri (3) Najato Namo Buddhaye and (4) Tri Ratna Lumanki were performed by Joshua Proto, Anna Shustrova, Adam Bidema and Susan Morningstar.

Similarly, Sunil Thapa sang a song ' Phoolko Aankha Ma' on the occasion.

Likewise, speaking at the event, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya highlighted on the activities of the Mahavihara and underscored the need for further promotion and preservation of Newar Buddhism in the USA.

The NMM's fourteenth anniversary event was followed by an international Charya dance show at the Mahavihara and on the zoom.

Vesta Coradini from Brazil performed Green Tara charya dance where as Hong Kong Dance Mandal team demonstrated Padmasambhava charya dance and Vajrasaraswoti Sloka Vajra dance. The Vajra dances from Hong Kong were performed by Lingling Lee, Dr Tina Ho, Dr Eliza My Lau, Shira Chan, Patty Chan, Saldon Wu, Mary Lau, Sin Ying Leung, Wing Yee Lam, Sam Ng and Dickon Kong.

Also, on the occasion, different charya nritya dances were beautifully and skillfully performed  by veteran charya nritya dancers of the US Dance Mandal.

(1) Rakta Ganesh charya dance by Joshua Proto

(2) 16 Offering Goddess dance by Pepper Kocseb, Lilli Morell, Susan Morningstar, Neelam Kushwaha, Phyllis Moses 

(3) Nairatma charya dance by Dara Daniels

(4) Vajrasaraswoti charya dance by Anastasia Roderick

(5) Maha Manjushree charya dance by Adam Bidema

(6) Vajrayogini charya dance by Alysha  Graham

(7) Annapurna charya dance by Anna Shustrova

(8) Aakashyogini charya dance by Bobby Romansky

(9) Prajna Paramita charya dance by Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya

(10) Mahakala charya dance by Corinne Nakamura - Rybak.

The evening program was hosted by Sangha member John Rybak at the temple and anchored on the Zoom by NMM board member Kuon Hunt. About 70 people participated at the NMM's fourteenth anniversary celebrations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were served to the participants.

(Rakta Ganesha charya dance by Joshua Proto)

(Nairatma charya dance by Dara Daniels)

Vajrasaraswoti (Saraswoti) charya dance by Anastasia Roderick. 

Manjushree charya dance by Adam Bidema.

Annapurna charya dance by Anna Shustrova.

Aakashyogini charya dance by Bobby Romansky.

Prajna Paramita charya dance by Prajwal Vajracharya.

Mahakala charya dance by Corinne Nakamura Rybak.

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Prajwal Guruji's Visit Aims to Promote Newar Buddhism in Chile

Portland, Nov 20 (Nepal Oregon News):  Charya nritya is an important part of Newar Vajrayana Buddhism. It originated in Nepal Mandala. This ancient and medieval dance dates back to more than 1,000 years and is a religious discipline of the Buddhist priests of the Kathmandu valley, who perform the dances as part of their esoteric meditation, practices, ceremonies and rituals.

Prajwal Vajracharya, who is a priest from one of the Vajracharya Buddhist lineages of Nepal, said this while addressing a 3 - day workshop 'Dance as a spiritual discipline - Charya Nritya' organized  by Young Khachod Ling (YKL-Chile) at  Colegio Francisco Varela in Santiago on Friday thru Sunday Nov17-19, 2023.

In discussing the history of Newar Buddhism in Nepal, Prajwal Guruji, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest, also mentioned the visits of Vipaswi Buddha, Shikhi Buddha, Vishwabhu Buddha, Krakuchanda Buddha, Kashyapa Buddha and Kanakmuni Buddha to the Nepal Mandala.

Historical evidences have been found that Krakuchanda Buddha and Kanakmuni Buddha were also born in Lumbini area in Nepal, the Guruji added.

Although Newar Buddhism is one of the oldest, few people in the world are familiar with it, said Prajwal Guruji. He also stressed the need for promotion and dissemination of Newar Buddhism in countries like Chile.

Dwelling on Charya Nritya, he said that it is a meditational dance that tells us stories of the inner qualities and awakening of Buddhist deities.

During the presentation, Prajwal Guruji threw light on historical Namo Buddha where Prince Mahasattva fed a hungry tigress by sacrificing himself.

Princess Charumati, daughter of Ashoka, Mauryan Emperor of Magadha, is credited to have founded the monastery at Chabahil called Charumati Vihara, which is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries of Nepal, the Guruji informed the Chilean participants.

During Prajwal Guruji's visit to Chile, the Chilean participants were able to explore Newar Buddhism, the cultural and symbolic content of Charya Nritya dance, as well as fundamental principles for performing the Refuge dance and the 16 - Offering Goddess dance.

The workshop on Newar Buddhism and Charya Nritya  was followed by a slide presentation. Likewise,  Sloka of various deities were also performed during the workshop.

Besides the three day workshop, Prajwal Guruji also gave a free talk and demonstration 'Sacred Dances of Nepal: Charya Nritya and Chacha' on Thursday, Nov 16, 2023.

Joshua Proto, a Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, was with the Guruji during his visit  to Chile.

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Charya Nritya Blooms in Argentina during Guruji's Visit

Portland, Nov 26 (Nepal Oregon News): Various teachings on Charya Nritya and workshops on  Tantric Newar Vajrayana Buddhism were organized  for four days Nov 22 - Nov 25, 2023 during Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya's  short visit to Argentina at the friendly invitation of Tantric Revolutionary Center (TRC). 

It was the first time  that Newar Vajrayana Buddhism was taught within Argentina, according to TRC. And it was the first time Charya Nritya dances bloomed in Argentina during Prajwal Guruji's recent visit to that country.

A certificate was also handed over on Nov 22, 2023 to Prajwal Vajracharya by the Faculty of Philosophy, History and Oriental Studies of University of Salvador for hosting a presentation on 'Introduction of Newar Buddhism'.

An introductory talk on Newar Buddhism and Charya Dance by Prajwal Guruji was organized by Los Cedros Foundation on Thursday, Nov 23, 2023.

Likewise, a sacred dance workshop by Prajwal Guruji was held on Nov 24, 2023 at DurgaMaa, Valentin Gomez.

During the all-day long workshop, various Charya nritya dances -- Green Tara, Vajrasattva, Vajravarahi and Guru Rinpoche -- were also performed and demonstrated by Prajwal Guruji, one of the senior-most Charya Nritya pedagogue in the world.

The workshop on Sacred Buddhist Dances of Nepal was an opportunity for Argentinians  to get familiar with fundamental training in Charya Nritya dance, a unique Newar Buddhist Tantric tradition from Nepal dating back over a thousand years that uses physical body as a vehicle for liberating the mind.

During the workshop, Prajwal Guruji threw light on Newar Vajrayana Tantric Buddhism.

He also touched on the ancient and medieval Tantric Mahasiddhas like Shantikaracharya, the first Vajrayana Tantric guru of the Nepal Mandala, Surat Vajra Vajracharya, Lila Vajra Vajracharya, Manju Vajra Vajracharya and so on.

Singing is the mantra, dancing is the meditation. When you combine the two - dance and song - that becomes He Vajra Tantra, from where liberation comes. Through it, you grow spiritually, and you can liberate yourself from the bondages and limitations, Prajwal Guruji went on saying adding that Vajrayana tradition is based on Tantric Buddhism.

In Sanskrit, Charya Nritya means dance as a spiritual discipline, said Prajwal Guruji adding that this is an ancient Vajracharya Buddhist dance tradition that until recently was unknown outside the circles of initiates who perform it.

Also, on Saturday, Nov 25, 2023, Prajwal Guruji empowered 17 Argentinians  with the Dikchha of Padmanateshvara by performing Newar Buddhist Tantric rituals.

Joshua Proto, a Lama of TRC and a Sangha member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihar was with the Guruji during his workshops in Argentina. 

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Anna, Stacie and Adam Perform Charya Dances at Nepal Festival 2023 in Bellevue, WA

Portland, Nov18, (Nepal Oregon News): Dance Mandal Portland team consisting of Prajwal Guruji's students Anna Shustrova, Anastasia Roderick and Adam Bidema performed rare Charya dances at Nepal Festival 2023.

Dabuli's eighth annual cultural event 'Nepal Festival 2023' was organized in collaboration with City of Bellevue on Saturday, Nov 18 at Bellevue College, Bellevue, Washington.

On the occasion, Anna Shustrova performed charya nritya dance 'Annapurna'. Likewise, charya dance 'Avalokiteshvara' was offered by Adam Bidema while charya dance 'Vajrayogini' was demonstrated by Anastasia Roderick.

The focus of Nepal Festival 2023 was to preserve the Newah and Nepali culture in the community and also provide an opportunity for the broader public to experience the very rich and unique but often inaccessible culture.

Dabuli's Nepal Festival 2023 provided an artistic platform  for different indigenous and ethnic communities of Nepal to demonstrate their tradition and showcase their rich cultural heritage.

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

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Auspicious Wedding of Prajwal Vajracharya and Teya De Sesa Held at Pureland Farms, California

Rabin Man Shakya

Portland, Dec 4 (Nepal Oregon News): The auspicious marriage ceremony of Guruju Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and Teya De Sesa took place on Sunday, Dec 3, 2023 at Pureland Farms in California. The wedding ceremony was solemnized by Tibetan Lama Dr Nida Chenagtsang.

About 40 people attended the nuptial ceremony at the Pureland Farms and 40 people witnessed the ceremony on the zoom. Co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Helen Appell, Prof Dr Miranda Shaw, Dr Tina Ho and journalist Karen Greenspan were among them.

Relatives of Teya: her father and brother, and board member of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara Kuon Hunt spoke on the occasion and wished happiness and prosperity to the newly married couple.

All the guests at the wedding ceremony including the Sangha members of Portland's Nritya Mandala Mahavihara wrapped auspicious Khata on Teya and Prajwal Guruju.

Also, on the occasion, Sangha members Corinne Nakamura-Rybak, Anastasia Roderick and Crystal Marie James offered auspicious Sixteen Offering Goddess Dance Mudra, also known as Sodasha Lasya in Sanskrit.

Nepal Oregon News extends sincere and hearty congratulations to the newly wed couple and wishes them blissful conjugal life.

Earlier, on the day of wedding, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya put forward a proposal for matrimony with Teya at the kitchen of the Pureland Farms in California.

With Prajwal and Teya, it was a case of love at first sight at the kitchen of the Pureland Farms several months ago. 

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Virtual Teaching on 'Pancha Tara' Charya Nritya Organized

Portland, Dec 24 (Nepal Oregon News): A teaching and presentation on Pancha Tara Charya Nritya on the zoom  was organized on Saturday, Dec 23, 2023 by Hong Kong Buddhist Studies Association (HKBSA).

The teaching on Pancha Tara was conducted by Guruji Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a 35th generation Vajrayana priest and co-founder of Nritya Mandala Mahavihara.

Majority of the virtual participants for the teaching on 'Pancha Tara' were the Sangha members of the Hong Kong Dance Mandal.

18 people including Nritya Mandala Mahavihara's co-founder Helen Appell,  journalist Karen Greenspan, Audrey Mazur and Dr Tina Ho took part at the remotely-held teaching while six Sangha members of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara were present in person at the Portland Baha temple during the teaching.

There are 108 Taras according to Newar Vajrayana Buddhism, Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya said and added that 21 of them are prominent ones. The Guruji also shed light on Bhrukuti Tara, Lochana, Mamaki, Vajradhatveshvari and other Taras.

Pronouncing the Tara mantra, "Om Tare Tutare Ture Svaha", Prajwal Guruji expressed the view that Taras are important deities in Newar Vajrayana Buddhism.

Prajwal Guruji's teaching zeroed in on Arya Tara (Green Tara) who is usually depicted as a compassionate being ready to step down from her lotus throne to offer comfort and protection from all of  the sufferings the sentient beings experience in the world.

The teaching presented a detailed and comprehensive description of Pancha Tara and threw light on various aspects of Green, White, Yellow, Blue and Red Taras. 

"In Sanskrit, the name Tara means star. Tara brings forth life and she is the Great Compassionate Mother, and embodiment of wisdom and the Great Protectress," the Guruji told the virtual participants.

The remotely-held teaching by Prajwal Guruji also dealt with the interrelationship between the Pancha Tara and the Pancha Buddha.

Giving details about the Charya Nritya 'Pancha Tara', the Guruji said:"In the Charya Giti 'Pancha Tara', the Raga is Nata and the Tala is Jati. This Nritya can be performed by one dancer or five dancers."

During the teaching, the Charya Giti on 'Pancha Tara' was chanted by Prajwal Guruji. The Guruji also demonstrated the 'Pancha Tara' charya nritya for the zoom participants.

At the end of the teaching, Prajwal Guruji answered to a number of queries of the participants. When Prajwal Guruji was asked to throw light on the importance of Taras, he went on to say that the Taras are the female Bodhisattvas  of compassionate activities, the supreme mothers and collective manifestation of the enlightened activity of all the Buddhas.

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Christmas Celebration at Corinne's House in SE Portland

Portland, Dec 26 (Nepal Oregon News): Corinne Nakamura-Rybak, a board member of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara and her husband John Rybak, an active Sangha member hosted a Christmas dinner at their residence in Southeast Portland on Monday, Dec 25, 2023.

Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, co-founder of the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland and his wife Teya De Sesa and John's mom also attended the Christmas dinner. Sangha members Gabriel Quitslund, Aniruddha Shakya, Naveena Shakya and others were also present on the occasion.

The Christmas party, which was an amazing and fun-filled event, was not just wining and dining, it was also an opportunity for friendly interaction among attendees.

The party attendees and children had an opportunity to play a game called "Watch Your Mouth" as well as table-tennis (ping pong) in the basement.

Today more than ever, Christmas has become a world wide celebration, a celebration observed by Christians as well as non-Christians all over the world. Kudos to Corinne and John for organizing the event.

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Garbha Dharan Puja Held

Portland, Dec27 (Nepal Oregon News): A Garbha Dharan Puja for Teya De Sesa was ritualized by Prajwal Guruji on Wednesday, Dec 27 2031 at the Nritya Mandala Mahavihara in Portland.

Kalas Puja, Mamaki Puja were conducted on the occasion. The purpose of the Garbha Dharan Puja  is to remove obstacles, do away with anxiety and stress, extend prosperity and wellbeing  to the mother and baby (fetus).

Teya is the spouse of Guruji Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya.

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Bara Tayegu Rituals for Two Newar Girls Solemnized in Tacoma, WA

Portland, Dec 28 (Nepal Oregon News): Bara Tayegu rituals for two Newar girls Sanaya Bajracharya and Sahana Bajracharya was performed by Prajwal Guruji in Tacoma, Washington on Thursday, Dec 28, 2023.

Sanaya and Sahana are daughters of Bibek Bajracharya and Shristi Shrestha Bajracharya.

Bara Tayegu - which is one of the important life cycle rituals of Newar women - is one of the traditional rituals which has been performed in Nepal for centuries. In Newar Vajrayana tradition, Bara Tayegu is a ritual carried out for young girls before the start of menstruation and usually followed by another important lifecyle ritual called 'Ihi' (bel bibah).

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Shraddh Rituals Performed in Honor of Late Tamrakar

Portland, Dec 22 (Nepal Oregon News): Guruji Prajwal Vajracharya performed the death rituals appropriate to the passing away of Madan Sen Tamrakar at his son Mrinal Sen Tamrakar's house in Portland on Friday, Dec 22, 2023.

Barkhi Phukaya Yayegu (end of mourning period) ritual, the Mamaki Puja and others were also conducted during the ceremony by the Guruji. The Shraddh rituals are conducted so that the heavenly journey of the deceased soul after death is comfortable and stress-free.

Madan Sen Tamrakar, 67, passed away on Dec 12, 2023. His antyesthi samskara (funeral sacrament) was held in Portland on Dec 13, 2023. Late Tamrakar is survived by his wife Gyani Sen Tamrakar, son Mrinal Sen Tamrakar, daughter Shintiya Shrestha and four grand children.

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Weekly Activities in Vihara Continue

On Tuesday, Dec 26, Manjushree Naamsangiti recitation was conducted by the Vihara to mark the Yomari Punhi (full moon day). In December, 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.

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(Rabin Shakya is a Nepali journalist in America)