A magnificent representation of the heavenly abode of the Five Transcendental Buddhas, known as Vajradhatu Mandala or the Diamond Realm, this Newari Thangka painting is a spiritual journey recreated with watercolor on a simple cotton canvas. Revered as the embodiment of the Buddha’s five qualities in Vajrayana Buddhism, the Pancha Buddha Mandala Thangka is a powerful meditative aid for the initiate in Buddhist Tantric tradition.
(Masterpiece From The Collection of Rajendra Raj Bajracharya)
Bordered by beautiful blue and floral outlines, the design of the Vajradhatu Mandala is derived from the Tibetan text- Sarva Tathagata Tattva Samagraha Tantra. The Mandala, where the Five Transcendental Buddhas reside, is a combination of geometric patterns representing the cosmos itself. Inside the protective circles of the Mandala in this Newari Thangka painting, the artist has drawn the Five Transcendental Buddhas. In the center is Vairochana, who presides over the Vajradhatu Mandala. Gleaming like the moon, Vairochana resides in the Akanishta heaven and removes ignorance, illusions, and desires. Surrounding him are the other four Buddhas, each ruling over a transcendental abode, representing the Buddha's characteristics and presiding over a direction.
Inverted beneath Vairochana in this Pancha Buddha Thangka, in a blue tone is Buddha Akshobhya- one who is without anger. He signifies the unshakable firmness of the mind on the path to Bodhi. He is sitting in the earth-touching posture- a reminder of the Buddha’s unchanging attitude even in the face of Mara’s challenges during his quest for Enlightenment. From his celestial home in Abhirati, Akshobhya rules over the East. To his left, emanating a golden luster is Buddha Ratnasambhava- the Jewel Bearing One. He is considered the human form of the legendary wish-granting jewel. He holds the knowledge of the fundamental nature of all beings. Ratnasambhava in this Newari Pancha Buddha Thangka, living in his Ratnabhuvana heaven holds sway over the South. Fourth in this Vajradhatu Mandala Thangka is Buddha Amitabha who is seen as the manifestation of supreme awakening. He rules over the West, and unfurls the lotus mind of the devotee, leading them to enlightened wisdom. He is seated within the red-hued triangle, formed from the light of wisdom that originates from his red-colored transcendental body. In the northern direction, as the embodiment of Nirvana resides Buddha Amoghasiddhi, identifiable by his green form. Amoghasiddhi means “the unfettered knowledge” and placed in his paradise called Amoghavati, this fifth Transcendental Buddha ensures the removal of all passions and ties of his devotee and brings perfection in their actions.
The realm containing the Pancha Buddhas is adorned with royal and auspicious motifs and mammoth-like mythical creatures with their tusks forming majestic golden arches. Outside the circles of the Mandala, dark green floral vines fill the background, against which Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara along with the Buddhist “Ashtamangala” or eight auspicious signs is presented. The upper and the lower section of this Vajradhatu Thangka contain rows of Buddhist protector deities and Bodhisattvas in independent arched structures.
A tapestry of vibrant colors, intermingling of artistic and architectural elements in the painting, and the sheer degree of detailing which is the characteristic feature of Buddhist Thangka painting- all the attributes have been employed in making this Newari Pancha Buddha Mandala Thangka. Once hanged on the wall of your space, this Newari Thangka will transport you to the celestial home of the Pancha Buddha.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist