Hand Carved Buddhist Tibetan Ritual Achi Chokyi Drolma Gold Gilded Hand Face Painted Copper Statue

Achi Chokyi Drolma Statue

 Achi Chokyi Drolma – Emanation of Vajrayogini

Achi Chokyi Drolma, a revered guardian of the Buddha's teachings, manifests as an emanation of Vajrayogini, embodying the profound wisdom and compassionate activities of all Buddhas. Regarded as the divine mother of the Buddhas, Achi compassionately takes form as the Dakinis of the five Buddha families, demonstrating boundless manifestations across various times and dimensions to benefit beings navigating the cycles of samsara.

In the sacred realm of Uddiyana, the birthplace of Vajrayana, a divine palace witnessed the transformative manifestation of Vajrayogini in the sublime form of Vajradakini. It was within this sacred space that she made a solemn commitment to protect the sacred Dharma, pledging this vow to the five families of wisdom Dakinis.

In the 8th century, during the propagation of Dharma teachings in Tibet, Guru Padmasambhava blessed numerous sites and sought meditative refuge in various caves. One such sacred cave, Tidro in the Drigung area, became a sanctuary where Guru Padmasambhava devoted an unprecedented seven years. It was during this extended period that Vajrayogini, in her manifestation as the chief karma-dakini, promised to safeguard the precious teachings of Vajrayana.

These profound manifestations of Vajrayogini in her jnanakaya, or wisdom body, became instrumental in nurturing the precious teachings and benefiting all sentient beings. According to the prophecies embedded in the Chakrasamvara tantra, it is foretold that the head of the karma-dakinis will manifest in the vicinity of the Tidro cave in Drigung. This anticipated occurrence is considered a nirmanakaya manifestation of Vajrayogini—a form body through which enlightened beings extend their assistance to all sentient beings.

Achi Chokyi Drolma's multifaceted manifestations, be they in jnanakaya or nirmanakaya, underscore her timeless commitment to protecting and preserving the profound teachings of Vajrayana. Through these manifestations, she remains a beacon of wisdom and compassion, tirelessly working for the welfare of all sentient beings on their spiritual journey.

Gestures and Attributes

 Achi Chokyi Drolma, a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is often depicted with distinct gestures and attributes that symbolize her enlightened qualities and protective nature. In her depictions, Achi is commonly seen with her right hand in the Varada Mudra, a gesture of bestowing blessings that signifies compassion and the fulfillment of wishes. In some depictions, Achi Chokyi Drolma is portrayed holding a Damaru in her extended right hand, its rhythmic beats symbolizing the continuous flow of enlightened wisdom. In her left hand, she may hold a skull cup, known as a kapala, emphasizing the transformative power of wisdom. This kapala is filled with nectar, symbolizing the elixir of wisdom that serves to cut through the veils of ignorance. These nuanced attributes contribute to the multifaceted symbolism surrounding Achi, highlighting her role as a guardian and bestower of wisdom within the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist iconography.

Achi Chokyi Drolma is often depicted riding a mule, her sacred mount, symbolizing swiftness and her ability to promptly respond to the needs and prayers of devotees. Adorned with divine ornaments and wearing sacred ritual garments, Achi's attire emphasizes her enlightened and regal presence. Her facial expression may vary, representing both her compassionate and wrathful aspects, demonstrating fierce determination to protect the Dharma and sentient beings.

Achi Chokyi Drolma may wear a crown adorned with symbolic elements that reflect her enlightened nature and connection to the divine. Surrounding her are often Dakinis, divine female beings associated with enlightened wisdom, emphasizing her role as the divine mother and protector. Achi is believed to have numerous manifestations, each tailored to specific needs and circumstances, displaying various attributes and gestures depending on the specific role she is undertaking.

The gestures and attributes of Achi Chokyi Drolma convey a rich symbolism deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist iconography. Each element serves as a visual language, communicating the enlightened qualities and compassionate nature of this revered deity within the Drikung Kagyu tradition.

About this Sculpture

This exquisitely crafted statue of Achi Chokyi Drolma is a testament to the exceptional artistry and skill of the master artisans from the renowned Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal. Meticulously cast from copper alloy through the revered lost wax method, the statue is adorned with opulence — 24-karat gold gilding and a meticulously hand-painted face that infuses it with a resplendent vitality.

Every intricate detail, from the crown and ornaments to the attributes, frame, and base, has been lovingly hand-carved, showcasing the dedication of the Shakya clan's modern heirs to their centuries-old tradition. Achi Chokyi Drolma is elegantly depicted riding a hand-carved mule, symbolizing swiftness and her responsive nature to the prayers of devotees.

The synergy of 24-karat gold gilding and the intricately hand-painted face imparts a richness and lifelike quality to the sculpture, elevating it beyond mere art to a spiritual conduit. Crafted with reverence and precision, this statue serves as a contemporary embodiment of the sacred artistry passed down through generations from ancient times by the master craftsmen of the Shakya clan. It not only stands as a magnificent work of art but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of fine metalworking techniques perpetuated by these artisans for use in temples and monasteries worldwide.