Thangka Painting

Artwork – Thangka Painting
Region – Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh

This Thangka painting represents Shakyamuni Buddha, depicted in deep meditation in the Bhumisparsha Mudra or “earth-touching gesture.” This symbolizes the moment of enlightenment when the Buddha called upon the Earth to witness his triumph over Mara, the embodiment of temptation and ignorance. Seated calmly upon a lotus throne, Shakyamuni radiates serenity, wisdom, and spiritual awakening.

Surrounding the central figure are countless small Buddhas — a “Thousand-Buddha” motif — symbolizing the lineage of enlightened beings predicted to appear during the current “Fortunate Aeon” in Mahayana Buddhism. This sacred pattern signifies the infinite nature of enlightenment and the universality of the Buddha’s teachings. The repetition of Buddhas also reflects purity of thought, harmony, and the boundless compassion that pervades Buddhist philosophy.Meticulously detailed and richly colored, the Thangka serves as both a devotional object and a meditative aid, guiding the viewer toward mindfulness and inner awakening.