Once practiced in secret, the Charya Nritya (dance as a spiritual discipline) is a Buddhist ritual dance. In ancient times, it was believed that the gods would be so pleased at the skill of the performers that they would make an appearance in front of the dancers. Accompanied by Charya Giti (devotional songs), Newar Buddhist priests (Bajracharyas and Shakyas) perform this dance. Small cymbals (ta) and a two-faced drum (damaru) provide the music to accompany the dance. Wearing glitzy costumes and six types of ornaments, the dancers move gracefully, holding certain poses for some time (one can observe many such poses in deity figurines). This dance includes a variety of styles depicting different Buddhist deities such as Manjushree, Avalokiteshvara, Vajrayogini and Vajrapani. Performed as part of the Vajrayana practice of deity yoga (visualizing oneself as a deity figure), the dancer reflects the appearance, ornaments, inner qualities, and awareness of the portrayed deity.
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Charya Dance
Charya Dance
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