About Bajracharya.org
Welcome to Bajracharya.org. Bajracharya , or Vajracharya, means an expert or master of Vajrayana: the Buddhist path that uses many techniques to reach enlightenment swiftly. Bajracharya.org explores that practice as it lives in the Kathmandu Valley: its philosophy and symbolism, the priests who master it, the bahals that house it, and the rituals, festivals, stories and history that grew around it.
Bajracharya and Vajracharya are the same Sanskrit word बज्राचार्य, written in English in two ways. This site keeps the spelling it began with. Bajracharya.org also owns vajracharya.org and vajracharya.com, which both point here. We aim to be a living archive, bridging the past and the present for anyone who wants to understand this ancient tradition.
Our Journey
The Bajracharya.org Project began as a vision in 2001. With the acquisition of the domain in 2002, a dream started to take shape. Initially, we embarked on this journey with great enthusiasm but soon realized the challenges posed by limited resources and information availability. This led to a temporary pause in our activities. However, our commitment to preserving and sharing this heritage never wavered. In 2023, fueled by renewed energy and resources, we resumed the project, setting out to digitally preserve the history and culture of the Bajracharya community.
The deeper we went, the clearer it became that Bajracharya is not only a community but a mastery: the mastery of Vajrayana practice. Documenting it meant following that practice wherever it leads, into its philosophy and meditative practice, the monasteries that house it, and the rituals, festivals, stories and history of the Kathmandu Valley it shaped. That is what Bajracharya.org has grown into.
What We Offer
Bajracharya.org is your portal into the history, culture and living traditions of Newar Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. Our articles cover:
- Newar Buddhism : tantra, symbolism and doctrine, from the Four Noble Truths to Chakrasamvara, Hevajra and Karunamaya.
- History : lineages, mahasiddhas and roots, including the origin of the Bajracharyas and legendary masters such as Lila Bajra and Surat Bajra.
- Bahals and Mahavihars : the monastery courtyards of Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Thimi and beyond.
- Mantras and Rituals : stotras and pujas, with step-by-step guides to rituals such as Gurumandala Puja and Mha Puja.
- Newar Festivals : the jatras and nakhas of the Newar year, from Mha Puja and Indra Jatra to Gai Jatra, Swonti Nakha and Mohani Nakha.
- Stories : ancient tales such as Gurumapa, Singha Sartha Bahu and Mahasattva.
We also publish the Swayambhu Purana chapter by chapter, the mythological history of the Nepal Valley, and keep a Document Archive of materials on Vajrayana, Newar Buddhism and the history of the Kathmandu Valley. From ancient scriptures to contemporary practice, there is something for everyone, whether you are a lifelong follower or a curious newcomer.
Join Our Mission
As we continue to grow, we actively seek volunteers and contributors who share our passion for preserving and promoting the Vajrayana heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. With thousands of topics to research, verify, and write about, there is no shortage of ways to contribute. Whether you are an expert in the field, a budding writer, or simply someone who is passionate about our cause, we welcome your involvement.
If you are interested in being a part of this exciting journey and would like to contribute to preserving the Vajrayana heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, please reach out to us on Facebook Messenger . Your participation can make a significant difference in how we document, share, and celebrate our unique heritage.
Our Invitation
We invite you to explore Bajracharya.org and immerse yourself in this unique journey. Stay tuned for more as we continue to unravel the ritual and cultural tapestry that binds us all. Your presence and participation in this journey are what make our efforts worthwhile. Experience, explore, and be a part of the Bajracharya.org community.
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