European Bulletin of Himalayan Research

Satyahangma rituals: commemorating Phalgunanda in eastern Nepal

European Bulletin of Himalayan Research December 9, 2024 Martin Gaenszle

The new Kirati religion founded by the spiritual leader and ‘national luminary’ Mahaguru Phalgunanda Lingden (1885–1949) is a unique blend of an ethnic tradition marked by shamanic practice and elements of Hinduism. Little is known about the ritual practice performed by the Mahaguru himself and his disciples. However, today, the principal successor, Atmananda Lingden, is propagating his version...