Shamanism in Nepal is characterized by a rich tradition of spiritual practices that involve chants, the rhythmic beat of drums, and vibrant, colorful food offerings. Nepalese shamans, known as "Jhankris" or "Dhamis," often incorporate chants and mantras into their ceremonies. These vocalizations are intended to invoke and establish connections with the spiritual world. The chants, often sung in ancient languages, are considered vehicles to reach altered states of consciousness and facilitate communication with spiritual entities.
The use of drums plays a central role in Nepalese shamanic practices. Percussive rhythms are fundamental in inducing trance states in shamans, allowing them to access the spiritual realm. The pulsating sound of drums creates a ritualistic atmosphere, marking the rhythm of the spiritual journey during ceremonies.
Food offerings play a symbolic and practical role in Nepalese shamanic practices. Fruits, grains, and other foods are presented as gifts to spirits. These offerings are considered gestures of gratitude and respect, establishing a symbolic exchange between the material and spiritual worlds. The vibrant colors of the food may also hold specific meanings, symbolizing different aspects of life and nature.
Colored powders are finely ground powders, often in vivid hues, used in shamanic ceremonies. They are sprinkled or tossed during rituals as a way to invoke positive energies, ward off negative influences, and purify the environment. Colored powders are considered significant elements in creating a spiritual and auspicious atmosphere during shamanic practices.
These combined elements create a unique sensory experience during shamanic sessions in Nepal, where music, colors, and offerings converge to form a holistic expression of spirituality and connection with the divine.
In the context of the ritual, the environment where it takes place plays a crucial role. This space is more than just a physical location; it's a gateway to the spiritual realm, a backdrop where the connection between the shaman, participants, and the forces of nature becomes tangible.
The space is carefully prepared to host the ritual. The atmosphere is charged with energy, with symbolic elements and ritual objects strategically placed to facilitate communication with the spirits and energies present.
Lighting, the sounds of nature, and the scents of herbs and incense all contribute to creating an immersive atmosphere, immersing participants in a profound spiritual journey. Every aspect of the space is considered sacred, providing an environment conducive to healing, transformation, and connection with the divine.
Despite societal shifts, shamanism endures in Nepalese communities. My interest in documenting modern shamanic rituals aims to preserve cultural heritage. Through photography, I safeguard spiritual richness endangered by societal changes. These images serve as visual education, challenging stereotypes and fostering cultural appreciation. By exploring the duality of ancient practices and the present, I contribute to a valuable historical record, celebrating enduring diversity in culture and spirituality. Through a single photograph, I aim to capture and preserve the endangered spiritual richness, challenging stereotypes, and fostering cultural appreciation.
During my time in Nepal, working on photojournalism assignments for several newspapers, I asked a journalist colleague if he could establish contact and obtain permission for me to attend and photograph the entire ritual. After many contacts, we managed to secure authorization to photograph the ritual. Initially, I had to sit against the wall like everyone else present and could only take photos from there. As time passed and people became more accustomed to me and my camera, I was granted a bit more freedom of movement. For the final ritual, they placed a chair in the middle of the room for me to sit and photograph from there.
I photographed with my Canon 5D MKIV, Lens - EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
