Maestro Santa Ratna Shakya original creator of Full Moon Singing bowl

Santa Ratna Shakya

Santa Ratna Shakya is a revered figure in Nepal, celebrated as a master craftsman and custodian of cultural heritage. As the third-generation inheritor of the Kassa tradition, he embodies the rich legacy of metalworking craftsmanship passed down through his family. Hailing from the historic Newari city of Patan in the Kathmandu Valley, Santa Ratna Shakya is known for his exceptional skill in creating singing bowls, including the renowned Full Moon singing bowl crafted under the direct light of the moon. His dedication to preserving traditional techniques, combined with his innovative spirit and commitment to purity and quality, has earned him recognition as a national treasure. Through his work, Santa Ratna Shakya not only produces exquisite instruments for healing but also serves as a bridge between the ancient traditions of Nepal and the modern world.

The Original Full Moon Bowl

One of the most distinguished creations from Santa Ratna Shakya is the Original Full Moon Bowl. This singing bowl is not only renowned for being crafted under the light of the full moon but also for its exceptional alloy. The unique combination of metals used in its creation is carefully selected to ensure the highest quality of sound resonance and durability. This meticulous attention to the composition of the alloy results in a bowl that produces deep, rich tones, making it a prized instrument for sound healers, meditation practitioners, and collectors alike. The Original Full Moon Bowl stands as a testament to Santa Ratna Shakya's unwavering commitment to excellence and his deep respect for the traditions of Nepalese metalworking.

Himalayan Singing Bowl Centre Klangschalen Zentrum

Santa Ratna Shakya's legacy is also embodied in his renowned shop, the Himalayan Singing Bowl Centre Klangschalen Zentrum. For many years, this shop was a staple in the Baudhanath area, serving as a hub for those seeking authentic singing bowls and other handcrafted treasures from Nepal. However, in 2024, the original building was demolished for renovation, prompting Santa Ratna Shakya to relocate the shop to the vibrant Thamel area, where it continues to flourish under the same name. The Himalayan Singing Bowl Centre remains a beacon for both locals and international visitors, offering a wide array of traditional instruments crafted with the same dedication to purity, quality, and cultural preservation that defines Santa Ratna Shakya's work.

The manufacture of Santa Ratna Shakya

For decades, Santa Ratna Shakya's family-run manufacture was located in the historic area of Patan, where traditional craftsmanship was passed down through generations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, leading to the closure of this long-standing facility. Like many other manufacturers in Nepal, the prolonged lockdowns—among the longest in the world—made it impossible to maintain staff and continue operations.

In the aftermath of the pandemic, Santa Ratna Shakya made the strategic decision to relocate the manufacture to a more remote area, Pharping Dhaskinkali, in the southern part of the Kathmandu Valley. This new location not only allows for increased production capacity but also minimizes disruption to city inhabitants, ensuring that the time-honored tradition of crafting singing bowls continues in harmony with the surrounding environment.