Research Bio
Doctrinal history of Indian Buddhism, particularly Abhidharma and Yogacara.
History of Nepalese Buddhism, with a focus on its rituals traditions (life-cycle rituals, including old age rituals, consecration rituals, including the rites of constructing and renovating stupas), its literature (authored in the Sanskrit and Newar languages) including its narrative traditions (including the Svayambhupurana), its art historical heritage (including scroll and mural paintings), and the history of its cults snd monuments (principally the Svayambhu caitya of Kathmandu, studied especially through historical chronicles).
Research Expertise and Interest
ritual studies, Nepalese studies, Buddhist traditions of South Asia, doctrinal history, Newar Buddhism, art
In the News
Center for Buddhist Studies announces 2011 “Toshi” Book Prize winner
UC Berkeley’s Center for Buddhist Studies has awarded the 2011 Toshihide Numata Book Prize to Todd Lewis and Subarna Man Tuladhar for their book about the epic poem about the life of Buddha by Nepalese poet Chittadhar Hridaya.