About the Foundation
The Maratika Chimey Rigdzen Dharma Foundation (Maratika Foundation in short) was founded in 2015 by Satya Katiza Ivulic and Sahaj Kevin Wood. It was established in an effort to help preserve the Maratika Monastery and caves for future generations, and safeguard their rich heritage. The universal teachings connected to Maratika have their roots in the local community, as well as traditional Tibetan Buddhism, and are known as the Long Life teachings. They lead to enlightenment and the recognition of our mind’s deepest nature.
The Foundation's work was initially focused on the renovation of the Maratika Monastery. After that goal was reached, we turned our efforts exclusively towards the well-being of the Maratika monks. The first related project was the English language program, launched in 2018. Since then, we have expanded the scope of our work through a variety of other much needed initiates.
Maratika Rinpoche
The spiritual head of the Maratika Foundation is the Lama of the Monastery - Ven. Ngawang Jigdral Chokyi Wangchuk Rinpoche, or Khenpo Karma Wangchuk. After completing advanced Buddhist studies, he was recognized and enthroned by H.H. Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche (the Supreme Head of Nyingmapa Buddhism) as the Lineage Holder of Maratika and the Abbot of the Monastery. He currently resides between Maratika and Kathmandu and gives teachings in Nepal and all over the world.
Maratika Caves and Monastery
The Maratika caves are mentioned in scriptures dating back to the 8th century and are associated with Guru Padmasambhava and Mandarava. Padmasambhava, one of the most important Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, is said to have realised immortal life at the Maratika Cave in Eastern Nepal, as did his consort Mandarava. But even before this happened, the cave and its surroundings were known in the region to be a sacred place for Buddhist and Hindu practitioners.
Today's great masters still visit the caves and do retreats at Maratika, thereby allowing the teachings to continually inspire many on their path to enlightenment and wisdom. In addition, Maratika is also a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The Maratika caves are lovingly cared for by the Buddhist monks of the monastery. And Maratika Foundation strives to support this sangha of over 50 monks, so that they can continue preserving this sanctuary of long life.
More about the history of Maratika can be found here.
The Team of Dedicated 'Maratikans'
Our team comes from diverse backgrounds and experiences but we are all united around the sincere goal of supporting Maratika. As the backbone Maratika Foundation, and under the guidance of Maratika Rinpoche, we shape the Foundation's mission and direction.
Board members
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Maratika Rinpoche, Honorary Board Member
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Katiza Satya Ivulic Iparraguirre, head
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Denitsa Gancheva, vice
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Annelied Mock, advisor
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Aafke van Sprundel, treasurer
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Ira Harjosusono, communications