Books

It is a well-known fact that Nepali Shamanism has a large following not only in Nepal but also abroad, and dedicated persons like Mr Banstola have been working hard to reach a wider non-Nepali following now linked nearly all over the world. Their quest for the unknown or less known continues amidst celebrations in Europe, the Americas and Asia. His works have borne fruit through unprecedented spiritual awareness, festivals, ceremonies and academic presentations.

It is a highly welcome compendium in the mysterious yet resourceful world of spiritual healing and the relevant philosophy of the integrated phenomenon of Nature, Man and the Beyond. This category of scripture falls in the sphere of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Nepal. Though a personal effort, this book is one brilliant example of this ongoing phenomenon.

This book is the writer’s tribute to Nepal and the spiritual healing practice that needs more support and promotion in the time to come.

Academicians like Bhola carry the essential elements of Nepali culture wherever they go. This feeling, spirit, effort, and the result of such an endeavour result in an incredible compendium like the book in our hands now. The content is lengthy, but each entry has significance in the documentation process of the intangible heritage of Nepal.

That the Nepali shamanic cosmology is more comprehensive and fertile is a known fact. A host of foreign scholars have made several efforts to unravel the shamanic cosmology of Nepal. The vast area remains to be explored further for the benefit of researchers, writers and readers. The world of the Anthropology of Sociology and Healing is extensive; it is getting wider and enigmatic for the Western world. All these years, Bhola has been adding more solid bricks to the philosophical, tantric and practical aspects of the shamanic cosmology of Nepal with an ever-increasing interest and a wider following in Nepal and abroad.

Spiritual healing is the book’s central theme – a handbook, for that matter. The healers know where to create balance among the spirits and elements when a victim approaches them for a cure. The healer then focuses on properly using the tools available so the victim can experience relief. A shaman plays with a host of methods at hand. Methodologically Playing with the Five essential elements – Kshiti or Earth, Aapa or Water, Teja or Fire, Maruta or Air and Vyoma –Sky – he becomes a medium to be reckoned with in the Nepali Shamanic Cosmology.

I wish Bhola success in further documentation and writing for the benefit of all in future.

May this book benefit all who seek shamanic wisdom from a long lineage.

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Prem Kumar Khatry, Professor (retired Professor, Tribhuvan University, Nepal)

January 2024, Kathmandu, Nepal