Saturday, December 13, 2014

International Bhikkhuni Day, 2014 (Part 20)

Honouring Eminent Asian Buddhist Women in the Modern Era
E. Dharma Propagation and Activism through Talent and Creativity

1. Nepal – Ven Ani Choying Drolma (1971 - )

Ani Choying is the singing nun who fights for rights of women and children. She has produced a few albums among them are the ‘Great Compassion Mantra,’ ’AUM MANE PADME HUM’ and ‘NAMO RATNA TRAYA.’ Nepal nicknamed her the “rock star nun” after the production of her hit album where she “sees the world from a pure heart.” Her lullaby-like spiritual songs have been a hit in Nepal, America and Europe and India.

Ani believes that singing and performing with top musicians was a way to take the essence of Buddha’s teachings to the world and help people in need. Her greatest joy this year was when the famous Indian music composer A. R. Rahman invited her to perform her Nepali hymns with him in a mantra fusion. She also felt fortunate to be able to work with Sivamani, a famous percussionist in India.

She will soon come out with a new album for children. UNICEF Nepal has featured Ani in its campaign to end violence against children and had aired it over television and in cinemas around the country. She donates the proceedings of her albums to the advancement of education of women and girls in Nepal.

Ani Choying was featured in the Eastern Horizon and Star Publication, Malaysia on 12 May, 2014.  

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