Vimalamitra

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Artist
Upendra Maharathi

Painting
Vimal Mitra

Dimensions
H: 50.8, W: 38 cm

Material
Tempera/silk

Number Assigned
Accession No.14026
National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

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Vimalamitra was a prominent 8th-century Buddhist monk, philosopher, and tantric adept, known for his role in transmitting esoteric teachings from India to Tibet. He significantly contributed to the early spread of Tantric Buddhism, particularly the Dzogchen teachings within the Nyingma school, founded by Guru Padmasambhava. Born in Western India, Vimalamitra became a leading scholar among the five hundred Panditas at Bodh Gaya and was a direct disciple of Acarya Buddhaguhya, learning esoteric Vajrayana doctrines. His notable translations include texts from the Guhyagarbha Tantra and various Dzogchen works at Samye monastery, which remain part of the Nyingmapa collection.  Tibetan hagiographies depict him as both a scholar and a master with mystical abilities, highlighting his supernatural prowess gained through tantric teachings and yogic practices.

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