Thangka Paintings

The unique arrangements of Thangkas’ compositions and proportions are believed to bestow blessings on those who look upon them. Similarly across the world, as well as within Tibet’s buddhist culture, the concentric structure of mandalas, are used to invoke harmony and balance to the body and mind.

Thangka paintings depict religious stories, incorporate symbolisms, and are visual representations of Buddhist practices. One must not think Thangka means a particular type of painting within the Tibetan culture. Thangka simply means ‘thing that one unrolls’. Tibet as a culture/ country throughout history has been Buddhist. Every facet of life surrounds Buddhism, hence naturally its paintings also revolve around the same theme.

With our bodies, we can perform dances & prostrations to praise and celebrate the wonderful teachings of the Buddhas, with our voices we can chant mantras that sooth our angst with their unique vibrations, and with our minds we can imagine the most beautiful and elaborate worlds that inspire joy. This is the meaning and function behind Thangka paintings.