Introduction to Nepali Dhami-Jhankri Shamanism Workshop
Dhyangro drum
Nepal’s shamanism is a living tradition that has been in perennial flow for a very long time—it is a way of life for many communities and groups. During this immersive three-day program, participants will explore the cosmology, creation stories, and traditional understandings of disharmony and malaise from a Nepali Jhankri-Shaman perspective. Bhola Banstola will be traveling from Nepal to lead this workshop, bringing his direct lineage knowledge and authentic experience of Nepali Dhami-Jhankri shamanism.
The Program
Under the expert guidance of Bhola Banstola, a 27th-generation Dhami-Jhankri Shaman, participants will embark on a transformative journey. Through storytelling, myth, ritual, dance, and group ceremonies, Bhola will guide you to explore the elements of creation, the three worlds, and the fourteen levels (Tintri-lok Chaudha Bhuvana) of the Nepali upper and lower spiritual realms.
You will learn about the male and female spirits of the Dhyangro drum, a sacred instrument central to shamanic rituals, and experience the primordial sounds and rhythms it produces. These rhythms symbolize the union of opposites—Purusha and Prakriti—bringing healing and harmony. Participants will see firsthand how a Jhankri uses these rhythms in their spiritual work.
Practical aspects of Dhami-Jhankri shamanism will also be covered:
The shaman’s costume (Jala-mala, Jama-Pagari)
Preparing a traditional altar (Thaan)
The art of making offerings (Chadaunu)
Discussions on conventional perspectives of disease and illness will be paired with hands-on experiences, including invoking the water deity Jala Devi to create healing water.
Participants will take part in profound rituals:
Designing a healing mandala (Rekhii) with cosmic representations
Performing rituals of release and removal (Khadga Puja)
Participating in a Shamanic Dance of Transformation (Jhankri-Naach)
Saturday evening will feature a shared vegetarian meal followed by a fire ceremony, a ritual of release and reinvigoration.
The program concludes with Bhola bestowing the five-coloured thread blessing (Pancha-Rangi Dhago), symbolizing harmony, balance, and joy. This ritual (Siir Uthaunu) enhances spiritual strength and resilience.
About Bhola
About Bhola Banstola
“My name is Bhola Banstola, a 27th-generation Jhankri Shaman from Nepal. My shamanic practices come from lineage transmissions from my grandfather and father, guidance from spirit and human teachers, dream instructions, personal transformative experiences, and the wisdom of nature. My mission is to preserve and share the shamanism of my tradition with new generations. I also support traditional Nepali education (param-para) and help underprivileged children access schooling.”
Bhola holds a degree in Cultural Anthropology and has spent many years studying shamanism across the Himalayas (Nepal, India, Bhutan, Tibet). He adapts shamanic techniques to bridge ancient traditions with modern understanding. He is the founding president of the Nepal Shaman Association, a member of the Society for Shamanic Practice, and an active member of Le Cercle De Saggesse De L’Union Des Traditions Ancestrales.
Bhola organizes annual pilgrimages to the Nepal-Himalayas to visit sacred sites and meet shamans from diverse local traditions. He has authored two books:
The Nepalese Shamanic Path: Practices for Negotiating with the Spirit World
Working With the Elemental Spirits: The Five Elements and Shamanism in Nepal
Both are available on Amazon.
The Details
What’s included
All teachings and materials plus a vegetarian dinner on Saturday evening.
Dates
Friday 3rd April (Good Friday) 10am-5pm, Saturday 4th April 10am-9pm), Sunday 5th April 10am-5pm.
Venue
The Clophill Centre, Shefford Road, Clophill, Bedfordshire, MK45 4BT
How To Book
Pay your £100 non-refundable deposit (or the full balance) and complete the booking form to secure your place. Bank details for payment can be found on the booking form. Places are limited to 14 so book early to avoid disappointment.
Investment
£320 - early bird (first 3 bookings) / unwage / low income / people from ethnic minority backgrounds
£350 - Standard investment
£380 - Pay it forward (this helps us support those who are unwaged / low income / people from ethnic minority backgrounds)
Accommodation
Campervans and camping maybe possible at The Clophill Centre, please let me know closer to the time if you would like to stay on site. Clophill eco lodges are within walking distance, you will need to contact them directly to book. There are also local airbnbs, bnbs and hotels nearby.
Things to note
You will need to bring a few items, details will be emailed to you closer to the time. The workshop is not allowed to be recorded.