The Bajracharya Bahal (in Newari “बा:”, “बहा:”, “बाहा:”), also recognized as Mahavihar (in Sanskrit “महाविहार”), serves as a prominent monastery where Bajracharyas engage in the practice of Vajrayana Buddhism. Mahavihar means Great Monastery. This significant monastic complex includes a Bahal, a customary courtyard integral to Newar communities in Nepal and a prevalent feature in Newari architectural design. The term ‘bahal’ itself translates to ‘courtyard’, underlining its architectural and cultural importance. At the heart of the Mahavihar is the veneration of the principal deity, Kwapa Dya, highlighting the monastery’s spiritual significance.
The Spiritual Heart: Bajracharya Bahals and the Essence of Mahavihars In the world of Vajrayana Buddhism, the Bajracharya Bahal, or Mahavihar, stands as a beacon of spiritual practice and tradition. These great monasteries, known as Mahavihars, are not just religious sites but also architectural marvels. Central to Newar communities in Nepal, these complexes feature a … Read more
Thimi: A Historical Overview Thimi, also known as Madhyapur Thimi, an ancient city steeped in history, holds the distinction of being the fourth-largest city in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley, preceded only by Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Founded in 1540 AD (633 Nepal Sambat), as evidenced by historical land grants and deeds, Thimi is strategically positioned at … Read more
Bhaktapur: An Ancient City Bhaktapur, an ancient city in Nepal, flourished during the Malla Dynasty, predominantly following Hinduism. This historical backdrop sets it apart from its neighbors, Kathmandu and Patan, which have a stronger Buddhist presence. In Bhaktapur, Buddhist Mahavihars (monasteries) and institutes are less common, and those that do exist are often in poor … Read more
The Mahavihar: A Sanctuary of Spiritual Significance At the core of Bajracharya religious practices lies the Mahavihar, a prominent monastery distinguished by its Bahal, a traditional Newar courtyard, known as “बा:” or “बहा:” in Newari. This architectural element is a hallmark of Newari designs, where ‘Bahal’ translates directly to ‘courtyard’. The Mahavihar’s crown jewel is … Read more
Patan: A City Steeped in Buddhist Tradition Patan, or Lalitpur, is not just a city—it’s a mosaic of culture, tradition, and spirituality. Nestled among the three valleys of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, it stands out for its dense concentration of Buddhist monasteries, known as Bahals. These sacred spaces form the backbone of Patan’s identity, making … Read more
The Esteemed Bajracharyas: A Newar Buddhist Legacy Among the Newar communities of Nepal, a unique class of married priests known as Bajracharyas play a pivotal role. These individuals are deeply versed in the Vajrayana practices and rituals of Newar Buddhism. Often referred to as guru-ju or gu-bhaju, terms derived from the Sanskrit word ‘guru’, they … Read more