About Parliament of the World’s Religions

There have been several meetings referred to as a Parliament of the World's Religions, the first being the World's Parliament of Religions of 1893, which was an attempt to create a global dialogue of faiths. The event was celebrated by another conference on its centenary in 1993

Dalai Lama speaking on the first day of his teaching on Chandrakirti 2022

The Dalai Lama’s views on the Madhyamaka

Sep

2022

Dharma, Mahāyāna Himalayas Life

This article is about the Dalai Lama's thoughts on the The Madhyamaka also referred as "Middle Way". It is based on the belief that all things are interconnected and interdependent, and that therefore no one thing can be considered in isolation. The Dalai Lama's views on the "Middle Way" This article discusses the Dalai Lama's views on the Middle Way Approach, a philosophy which advocates for a balanced and moderate approach to life. While addressing the congregation at the .

The Tantric Phurba – A protective ritual dagger

Sep

2022

Tantrism, Vajrayāna sadiksha

The phurba is a ritual dagger used in Tantric practices. It is used to protect against negative energies and to promote positive change. The phurba is not to be used for violence or harm, and should only be used for ritual purposes. It is a powerful tool for protection and should be used with care and respect. Origin of Phurba in Tibet The renowned Buddhist master Padmasambhava, who was initiated by the Indian sage Prabhahastin, is said .

Buddhist monuments and the Kings of Patan

Jul

2022

Dharma, Monuments Sambid Bilas Pant

Long time ago, King Sarvananda of Dipavati invited sages around the country for distributing alms. Dipankara Buddha, a Buddha who reached enlightenment prior to Gautama Buddha, was also invited. However, instead of visiting the palace, Dipankara Buddha visited a nearby hut belonging to an old lady. In late 2021, a 1400-year-old stone inscription was discovered in front of the Bhimsen Temple at Patan Durbar. It was kept there by Lichhavi ruler Anshu Verma. The inscription .

The Sheshnaryan Temple & Rigzin Drubte Ghatshal Monastery

Jul

2022

Dharma, Hinduism Sambid Bilas Pant

In the same complex, close to the the Sheshnarayan Temple is the oldest monastery in Pharping, Rigzin Drubte Ghatshal Monastery. It is a great example of religious and cultural pluralism in Nepal. A God, a King and a prophetic vision Lord Vishnu is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is part of the holy trinity that consists of three gods — Brahma, the creator, Shiva, the god of destruction and Vishnu who is responsible .

Ram Mandir and the legend of Battisputali

Jul

2022

Hinduism, Monuments, Temples Sambid Bilas Pant

There were 32 scupltures of fairies placed inside the inner walls of Ram Mandir which led to the place being called Battisputali (32 fairies with butterfly wings). There is an enthralling story behind the fairies installed here. The ancient Sanskrit epic Ramayana written by Valmiki has captivated people from all over the world for centuries. Lord Ram is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is worshipped by Hindus from all over .

The Patronage of Buddhism and Jainism by Ancient Indian Dynasties

May

2022

Akshobhya and Shakyamuni Buddha Comparisons

Jul

2021

Bodhisattvas, Dharma, Mahāyāna, Symbols sadiksha

Shakyamuni Buddha and Akshobhya Buddha are both important figures in Buddhism. Both are considered to be enlightened Buddhas who have achieved enlightenment and are revered as teachers of the Dharma. The main similarity between Shakyamuni Buddha and Akshobhya Buddha is that they both represent the same core teachings of Buddhism. They both emphasize the importance of meditation, mindfulness, and compassion in achieving enlightenment. Upon initial inspection, Shakyamuni Buddha and Akshobhya Buddha may appear to be alike; .

Appearances and Identifications of Vajrapani

Jul

2021

Deities, Vajrapani, Vajrayāna sadiksha

Vajrapani is one of the earliest and most recognizable characters of Buddhist art. He is known for carrying a vajra scepter and being a close attendant to the historical Buddha according to the Mahayana Sutras. In Vajrayana, Buddhism Vajrapani is entrusted to safeguard all of the Tantra literature and in this regard, he is known as Guhyapati - the Lord of Secrets. Different Forms of Vajrapani Vajrapani manifests in a variety of forms and looks, ranging from placid .

Goddess of Wealth & Abundance – Vasudhara

Jun

2021

Art, Dharma, Himalayan Art, Theravāda, Tibetan paintings sadiksha

Vasudhara is named Shiskar Apa in Lahul and Spiti. She is comparable to the Earth goddesses Phra Mae Thorani in Theravada and Tai folk religion and Bhumidevi and Prithvi in Hinduism. She is also known as Goddess of Wealth and Abundance. Who is Vasudhara? Vasudhara (Tib. Norgyunma), the Buddhist bodhisattva of money, prosperity, and abundance, is a Buddhist bodhisattva of riches, prosperity, and abundance. She is revered in many Buddhist countries and is depicted in Buddhist art and .

Sitatapatra – Goddess of the White Parasol

May

2021

Art, Himalayan Art, Thangka Samiksha

Sitatapatra is known as a protector against supernatural danger in Buddhism. She is venerated in both the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. She is also known as Usnisa Sitatapatra. Sitatapatra is a powerful independent deity emanated by Gautama Buddha from his Usnisa. Sitatapatra is known as Sanskrit Dug Kar mo in Tibet. and Sitatapatra is also known as The White Parasol, Crown Ornament of the Buddha in English. Iconography of Sitatapatra Sitatapatra is white in color with 1000 faces, .