Newar Buddhism, practiced by the Bajracharya community of Nepal, is a distinct and vibrant form of Vajrayana Buddhism rooted in ancient tantric traditions. This esoteric (secret) path emphasizes rituals, meditation, and deity worship to attain enlightenment, with a focus on the transformation of the practitioner’s inner self. Central to this tradition are Bajracharya priests, who serve as spiritual leaders, performing intricate ceremonies such as Gurumandala Puja and the 16-step rituals, preserving centuries-old sacred knowledge. Vajrayana Buddhism in Nepal blends the profound philosophical teachings of Buddhism with the cultural and artistic heritage of the Newar community.
Introduction In Kathmandu, the White Karunamaya (Jana Baha Dya or Arya Lokesvara) and in Patan, the Red Karunamaya (Bunga Dya or Padmapani Lokesvara), are commonly referred to as Machhindranath by the general populace. However, this belief appears to be incorrect, as Karunamaya (also known as Avalokiteshvara) and Machhindranath are not the same person or deity. … Read more
Introduction Karunamaya (करुणामय), also known as Lokesvara (लोकेश्वर) or Avalokiteshvara (अवलोकितेश्वर), is one of the most revered Bodhisattvas in Buddhism. He is the embodiment of infinite compassion and is believed to manifest in various forms to guide sentient beings toward enlightenment. The concept of 108 Lokesvara represents different aspects of Avalokiteshvara’s compassion, wisdom, and protection, … Read more
What is Tantra? The word Tantra (तन्त्र) comes from Sanskrit and means “technique”. In Newar Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism, Tantra represents a set of practices designed to accelerate the path to enlightenment. Vajrayana is often called “Tantric Buddhism” because it emphasizes these techniques. A practitioner of Tantra, known as a Tantric, is someone … Read more
Introduction to Kul Devata: The Heartbeat of Spiritual Practice At the heart of every Bajracharya family is their Kul Devata (Sanskrit: कुल देवता), the principal family deity that represents more than just a religious symbol. These deities are also referred to as Ista Devata (Sanskrit: इष्ट देवता), meaning “personal favorite deities”, and are sometimes identified … Read more
Kalachakra Tantra: A Path to Enlightenment The Kalachakra Tantra is an important and deep set of teachings in Vajrayana Buddhism, especially followed by Bajracharya Buddhists. At its core is the Kalachakra deity, which stands for the ‘Wheel of Time’ and shows how life and the universe are always changing. Kalachakra’s partner, Visvamata, known as the … Read more
The Spiritual Essence of Bajracharya Buddhism: Embracing Hevajra & Nairatmya In the heart of Bajracharya Buddhism, a tradition rich in history and spiritual depth, lies the profound reverence for Hevajra and Nairatmya. These deities are not mere figures of worship but pivotal symbols in the spiritual tapestry of this tradition. Bajracharya Buddhists engage in dedicated … Read more
Introduction: A Glimpse into Nepal’s Spiritual Heart Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal is a land steeped in spiritual tradition and mysticism. Among the myriad of deities worshipped in Newar Buddhism, two figures stand out with their profound symbolism and rich mythology: Yogambara (योगाम्बर) and Jnana Dakini (ज्ञान दाकिनी), collectively also known as … Read more
Introduction: The Essence of Buddhism At the heart of Buddhism lies the Noble Eightfold Path, also known as The Middle Path. This foundational framework isn’t just a set of guidelines but a rich tapestry of principles that lead to a life of balance, understanding, and enlightenment. Each step on this path is a building block … Read more
The Enchanted Beginnings of a Great Being Centuries ago during the 6th Century BCE (or some believe 5th Century BCE), King Suddhodana, revered as a wise and compassionate ruler, governed the Sakya kingdom, also spelled as Shakya, now part of the modern-day border of Nepal and India. His kingdom, known for its prosperity and peace, … Read more
Introduction: Discovering Buddha’s Core Teachings In the heart of Buddhist teachings lie the Four Noble Truths, a profound framework first unveiled by Buddha during his inaugural sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath ( See in Map), India. These truths offer a deep understanding of human existence, outlining the path to spiritual awakening and peace. Let’s … Read more