This Thangka painting, commissioned by special request, is a truly unique and rare masterpiece that features the Hindu mantra "Om Namo Narayanaya"—a motif rarely seen in traditional Tibetan Buddhist art. This painting captures the profound symbolism and spiritual depth of Tibetan art while illustrating the deep connection between Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. This fusion of sacred traditions makes this Thangka an extraordinary work of art.
The mantra Om Namo Narayanaya is believed to invoke the compassionate attention and blessings of Narayana, the Supreme Lord in the Hindu pantheon. Om represents the sacred cosmic syllable, embodying the entirety of the universe, energy, and consciousness. Namo translates as "bow to," while Narayanaya stems from the Sanskrit word naara, meaning "water," and anaya, meaning "resting place" or "shelter." Hence, it is another name for the Hindu god Vishnu, whose abode is in water. Alternatively, naara can signify "living entities," making Narayanaya mean "the resting place of all living beings."
The Om Namo Narayanaya Thangka painting holds profound meaning, as it channels the transcendent power of the mantra, aiding in the pursuit of spiritual awakening. It is widely regarded as beneficial for individuals seeking self-realisation and unity, aligning with the ultimate aim of yoga.
An intricate mandala provides the backdrop, symbolising a cosmological diagram and reflecting the universe in microcosmic form. This harmonious blend of artistic and spiritual elements accentuates the interconnectedness of Buddhist and Hindu traditions, making this Thangka painting a truly exceptional creation.
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Thangka is an ancient Tibetan art form comprising paintings or embroidery on woven materials such as cotton or silk. The preparation of the canvas is a crucial part of the process, with the quality of the material significantly influencing the final artwork. A mixture of animal skin glue, distemper, and water is applied to the canvas, which is then dried in the sun and polished with glass. This process can take up to two weeks and is repeated several times.
Premium quality Tibetan Thangka paintings use paint derived from precious and semi-precious natural minerals, crystals, and plant materials, including pearl, coral, lapis lazuli, cinnabar, sulfur, azurite, and malachite. These natural substances are renowned for their healing properties and intrinsic power. The artist grinds the materials into a fine powder, mixing it with hide glue and water to ensure long-lasting vivid and vibrant colors. The final touch involves the application of 24 Carat Gold and Sterling Silver.
To bring the artwork to life and infuse it with positive energy, premium quality paintings crafted by experienced artists are taken to a Buddhist Lama for a sacred blessing ceremony. Through this process, the Thangka becomes imbued with wisdom, serving as a genuine representation of an enlightened mind in a tangible form. This ritual not only enhances the spiritual essence of the artwork but also ensures that it resonates with the transformative energies of Buddhist teachings, enriching the experience of those who engage with it.
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