Helen Fox Appell II
Helen Fox Appell II as Vajragarva
Helen came to Charya dance with a constellation of talents, experience, and knowledge that uniquely prepared her to delve deeply into this sacred art and become a major figure in its establishment in the West. A serious Buddhist practitioner, she studied Vajrayana for many years in India and as an ordained Zen priest co-founded No Abode Hermitage in Marin County, California, engaging as well in study of Sanskrit and Tibetan. Artistically gifted, Helen also brought a finely honed aesthetic sensibility developed through creative engagement with a range of arts, such as woodcarving, music, and dance; the study of several musical instruments and training in western painting, Tibetan thangka painting, and Indian classical singing. Seeking to integrate her interests in yogic arts and dance into her Dharma path, she began to study Charya Nritya with Prajwal Vajracharya, progressed to performing with him, and now choreographs and teaches. They co-founded Nritya Mandala Mahavihara, the first Newar Buddhist temple and study center in the west, to serve as a traditional ritual space for this ancient Tantric tradition . In her role as Creative and Organizational Director, Helen is devoted to unveiling the spiritual integrity of Charya dance in its new setting.
“Helen has contributed greatly while advancing her spiritual path, not only for herself individually but also for the whole community.… She is personally deeply dedicated to the spiritual path and the exploration of the spiritual world. I’ve known Helen for a long time and I am greatly inspired by her genuine spiritual exploration.”