How Is a Stupa Made? Casting, Hammering and Finishing
Learn how a stupa is made, by lost-wax casting or by hammering metal plates, then carving, gilding, plating and stone setting, and why every handcrafted stupa differs.
How Is a Phurba Made? Traditional Craft of the Ritual Dagger
Category: Ritual Objects | Tradition: Vajrayana Buddhism and Bön | Origin: Nepal, India, and Tibet A phurba is a ritual dagger with a three-sided blade, and making one is...
Blog posts
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Shankar ThakaliFamous Stupas of Nepal and Beyond: Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and More
Discover the famous stupas of Nepal, including Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, the Ashoka stupas of Patan and Namo Buddha, and the great stupas of India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Myanmar.
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Shankar ThakaliHow to Use a Mala: The Process of Using Prayer Beads for Mantra and Meditation
Learn how to use a mala, from choosing a mantra and holding the beads to counting rounds and turning at the head bead, with a simple routine for beginners.
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Shankar ThakaliDamaru in Vajrayana Buddhism and Beyond: History, Meaning and Ritual Use
Explore the damaru in Vajrayana Buddhism and beyond, including its history, ritual use, symbolism, and its meaning in Hinduism and Himalayan culture.
