This single word prayer wheel has a metallic cylindrical hollow body adorned with a sacred word carved on the outer periphery as an intricate design. The hollow body consists of a roll of lokta paper inside with mantras scripted on it. The wheel mounts on a wooden stand which is beautifully hand-carved with a lotus petal design and revolves around the stand.
The prayer wheel also known as mane in Nepali is an ancient and sacred religious artifact deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. From a religious perspective, it is believed that the spinning of a prayer wheel spreads positive energy and imparts blessings for all. As one spins the wheel clockwise, the roll of lokta paper inside also moves and releases the power of the sacred mantra. Each rotation is considered equivalent to orally reciting the mantra numerous times, multiplying the benefits exponentially. This mantra is associated with the Bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteshvara, and is believed to have the power to purify negative emotions, promote compassion, and bring about spiritual awakening.
The prayer wheel is an essential element in Tibetan Buddhist practices and is commonly found in monasteries, temples, and even in homes. Moreover, larger prayer wheels can be found mounted on the walls of monasteries and stupas, allowing people to walk past them and give them a spin as a part of their daily rituals or as a way to accumulate merit and blessings. The continuous rotation of these large prayer wheels by the wind or water currents is also believed to bring boundless blessings to the surrounding environment.