Maitridakini and Indradakini Maitridakini (Tib. Maitri Khacho) and Indradakini (Tib. Indra Khacho) are two manifestations of Vajrayogini (Tib. Dorje Naljorma), the supreme goddess in the pantheon of Vajrayana Buddhism. Just like her, they are perceived as an embodiment of complete Buddhahood in female form. Maitridakini is a Tantric goddess, originated from the tradition of the […]
Vajrayana
Narodakini
Narodakini, fragment. From exoticindiaart.com Narodakini is a Tantric goddess and a manifestation of Vajrayogini, originated from the tradition of the Indian Buddhist Mahasiddha Naropa (956-1040). She manifested before him and transmitted exoteric teachings and practices. It is also believed that she is his spiritual partner. Another name for the goddess is Narokhechari (Tib. Narokhachoma, “the […]
Vello Vaartnou: A Life Devoted to Dharma
Buddhistdoor Global (BDG): You’ve been living in Australia for some decades now. But you have also spent many years building stupas, 8 of them by yourself, and created original thangkas. How did you balance so many projects with your teaching and practice in Australia?
Vajravarahi and Her Consorts
Vajravari in union with her consorts Vajravarahi (Tib. Dorje Phagmo) is a wrathful aspect of the Tantric goddess Vajrayogini. Vajravarahi can be translated as “diamond sow.” She symbolizes the supreme power that removes all obstacles on the path to enlightenment, as well as the passion, compassion, and wisdom that overcomes ignorance and attachment to the […]
Budding Buddha: A Conversation with Artist James Stanford
James Stanford, “Budding Buddha.” From artfixdaily.com James Stanford is a longtime Buddhist artist with a distinct aesthetic and inspiration. Last November, he donated his “Budding Buddha” art to the Art for Tibet exhibit and auction at Gallery Eight in New York, which was organized by Students for a Free Tibet. Can you describe a bit your background in […]
The Teacher Who Dispels the Darkness of Ignorance and Brings the Light of Wisdom
28 October marks one year since the passing of my beloved teacher, Professor Alexander Fedotoff (1956– 2018). He was an outstanding erudite, a polyglot, and professor of Korean, Mongolian, and Tibetan literature. He was born in Novosibirsk, Russia and graduated from the Department of Mongolian Studies and Tibetology in the Faculty of Asian and African […]
Kumarajiva Project: A 60-year Tibetan-Chinese Translation Initiative from Khyentse Foundation
Statue of Kumarajiva outside the Kizil Caves. From China Discovery There are two “buzzwords” in the Buddhist world today. One is obviously mindfulness and has dominated contemporary discourse for decades. The other is translation, and despite being overshadowed by mindfulness to some extent actually remains one of the most important activities of the global Buddhist […]
Press Release: “Wake Up with Dharma Retreat” with Khenpo Kalsang Nyima Rinpoche
In this digital age occupied by emails and social media, we spend so much time focusing on sadness about the past and worries towards the future. Our minds keep jumping from thought to thought. Have you ever tried to live in the present? Do you long for a tranquil retreat, a getaway in the green […]
Sitatapatra: Goddess of Protection from Evil Forces
Sitatapatra with one face and two hands. From liveinternet.ru Sitatapatra (Tib. Dugkarmo) is a goddess of protection from supernatural dangers such as demons and any other harmful influences. Her name means “White Parasol” and she is perceived as a wrathful aspect of the bodhisattva of compassion Avalokiteshvara (Tib. Chenrezig). As an embodiment of one of […]
Marichi, Goddess of the Dawn
Marichi. From theyoginiproject.org Marichi (from Sanskrit “ray of light”) is the Goddess of the Dawn, who is revered in the Buddhist tradition as a heavenly warrior and powerful protector. Her name in Tibetan is Oser Chenma, which means “Goddess of the Great Light.” Marichi protects human beings from physical dangers and harm, sudden death, thieves, […]