Sagan Stotra (सगं स्तोत्र): Auspicious Blessings for Good Luck

sagan-egg-fish

Introduction The Bajracharya Sagan (Sagun) Stotra holds a significant place in Bajracharya culture, where it is chanted to invoke good luck and auspiciousness. This traditional practice is often accompanied by the offering of boiled Eggs, dried Fish and Yogurt believed to bring blessings and positive energy. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, the commencement of a … Read more

Daanabalena Stotra – दानबलेन स्तोत्र

daanabalena-mantra

Introduction The Daanabalena (also written as Danabalena) stotra, in Sanskrit दानबलेन स्तोत्र, holds a special place in Bajracharya Buddhism, particularly invoked during prayers to Kwapa Dya, a principal deity in Mahavihar. This stotra is chanted as a devotional act, embodying deep reverence and spiritual connection. It is believed to enhance the spiritual potency of the … Read more

Bajracharya Mool Mantra: Unveiling the Secret

bajracharya-mantra

The Essence of Bajracharya Mantra In the heart of Bajracharya Buddhism practice lies the Bajracharya Mool Mantra, also known in the Newari language as Nhikan Mantra (न्हिकं मन्त्र). Typically, this mantra is recited 108 times. Om Khandarohi Hum Phat ॐ खण्डरोही हूँ फट् This mantra, regarded as one of the most powerful mantras in the … Read more

Chakrasamvara & Vajravarahi: Chakrasamvara Tantra

chakrasamvara-vajravahari

Newar Buddhism: Embracing Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi Newar Buddhism, a unique form of Vajrayana Buddhism practiced primarily in Nepal, is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious tapestry of the Newar people. This tradition prominently features the worship of deities such as Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi, who are revered in the esoteric practices of Tibetan Buddhism as … Read more

Hidden Bahals and Mahavihars Beyond Kathmandu, Patan

Bahals outside Kathmandu

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 Bahals & Mahavihars: Timeless Treasures

thimi-bahal

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

Bahals of Bhaktapur: Ancient Mahavihars

Tadhuchhen-Bahal-Bhaktapur

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

Mahasattva: The Prince Who Fed Himself to the Tigers

mahasattva-feeding-tiger

A Royal Family’s Joyful Life Once, in the majestic land of Gandhabatipur, ruled King Maharath, a revered leader. He led a life of contentment with his beloved wife, Queen Satyabati, and their three sons, Mahapranad, Mahadev, and the youngest, Mahasattva. This story passed down through the ages, tells of Mahasattva’s extraordinary sacrifice, a tale that … Read more

The Four Bajracharyas: Legendary Superheroes of Kathmandu

bajracharya-superhero

Discovering Kathmandu’s Ancient Guardians: The Four Bajracharyas In the heart of Kathmandu Valley, the Bajracharyas stand as pillars of the Newar community, embodying the profound teachings of Newar Buddhist Vajrayana traditions. Known as guru-ju or gu-bhaju, these married priests hold a revered status, echoing the Sanskrit term ‘guru’ for teacher or priest. The Bajracharyas, ranking … Read more

Kwapa Dya: Heart of Bajracharya Mahavihar

kwapa-dya

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