About the Foundation
Bodhisattva Foundation, based in Kupondole, Lalitpur, is the social outreach wing of Bodhisattva International—an organization that blends compassion, culture, and creativity. Rooted in Buddhist philosophy and the Newa cultural heritage, the Foundation was inspired by the vision of late Purna Man Shakya and is co-led by Anjana Shakya.
Originally beginning as Bodhisattva International in the 1980s, the initiative expanded over time from art preservation into a broader mission of serving society through education, empowerment, and heritage support.
Our mission is to serve humanity by supporting marginalized communities, preserving Nepal’s cultural heritage, and empowering individuals—especially children—through education, creativity, and compassion.
Since its active involvement in the 2015 Nepal earthquake relief, the Foundation has been committed to:
- Supporting underprivileged children with education, nutrition, and basic healthcare.
- Uplifting rural and marginalized communities through empowerment programs.
- honoring and preserving traditional Newa artby supporting local artists.
We believe that true progress comes when culture, care, and community walk hand in hand.
Our Journey
1986: Purna Man Shakya establishes Bodhisattva Gallery to promote traditional Newa art and uplift local artisans.
2015: After the Gorkha Earthquake, the Foundation becomes actively engaged in relief efforts—distributing food, shelter, school supplies, and medical aid in affected areas.
2016–present: Focus expands to long-term community programs—especially educational support for underprivileged children and economic upliftment through art.
2023: Launch of the Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award to recognize excellence in traditional and contemporary Nepali art.
2023: Opening of the Purna Museum of Newa Art, preserving the artistic legacy of Newar civilization and providing a learning space for future generations.
What We Do
Educational Support: Sponsorship programs, school supply distribution, and mentorship for children from economically challenged backgrounds.
Art & Culture Preservation: Support for local artists, heritage exhibitions, traditional art commissions, and museum curation.
Women & Youth Empowerment: Skills training and opportunity creation in both urban and rural areas.
Emergency Relief & Community Aid: Earthquake, pandemic, and crisis response through direct support and collaboration with grassroots groups.
Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award
About the Award
Launched in 2023 by the Bodhisattva Foundation in memory of its founder Late Purna Man Shakya (1962–2020), this annual art award honors his lifelong dedication to Newa art and his mission to empower traditional artists.
Purna Man believed in nurturing creativity, promoting innovation, and giving Nepali artists access to broader audiences—all aligned with his vision.
Purpose & Vision
The Award encourages excellence in traditional Newa arts, including paubha painting and statuette carving. It builds on the values he championed—supporting artists creatively and economically, and preserving cultural identity through artistic expression.
Impact & Legacy
Reinforces the dignity and economic sustainability of traditional artists, reflecting Purna Man Shakya’s core values.
Supports preservation and visibility of Newa culture through creative expression.
Complements related initiatives like exhibitions (e.g. Jewels of Newar Art, Embodied Enlightenment) and the Purna Museum of Newa Art—venues where past award artworks and related exhibitions are on display
3rd Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award 2025
The 3rd Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award is set to take place from February 1–11, 2025, celebrating the legacy of our founder, Late Mr. Purna Man Shakya. This art competition is dedicated to fostering creativity among traditional artists, encouraging innovation, and enriching the global artistic landscape.
With a deep appreciation for Newa Art, our gallery has always championed its beauty and significance. We believe these artists deserve greater recognition and a wider audience, staying true to Mr. Shakya’s vision of advancing art and creativity.
To further support artists, we are keeping the gallery commission at just 10%—a perfect opportunity for art lovers to invest in unique works while directly uplifting the creative community. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of inspiring artistry and contribute to its thriving future!
Date: 1-11 Feb 2025 | Time: 12 – 6pm
2nd Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award 2024
The art competition is devoted to honoring our founder, Late Mr. Purna Man Shakya’s vision to develop traditional artist’s creativity, encourage innovation and contribute to the diverse tapestry of global artistic expression. Working closely with the artists, the gallery has always cherished the rich Newa Art and always believed that their works deserve more recognition and should be shown to a wider audience and aims to provide a platform to showcase their talent to a broader audience, in line with his commitment to advancing art and creativity.
Date: 20-31 Jan 2024 | Time: 12 – 5pm
1st Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Awar 2023
The first Purna Man Shakya Memorial Art Award was held from January 21 -31, 2023 at Bodhisattva Gallery, as a tribute to the visionary founder’s dedication to traditional Newa art. Focused on paubha painting and statue carving, the award aimed to recognize artistic excellence and inspire both emerging and established artists. Judged by renowned masters in the field, the event marked the beginning of an annual celebration that honors heritage, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Nepali craftsmanship.
Date: 21-31 Jan 2024 | Time: 12 – 5pm