Santa Ratna Shakya

Master Artisan of Singing Bowls | Patan, Nepal

Presentation

Santa Ratna Shakya is one of the most respected singing bowl artisans in the world today. Born in Patan, in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, he represents the third generation of a Newar family of metalworkers and healers. With over 35 years of experience, Santa has become a reference worldwide for the authenticity and spiritual power of his bowls. His work combines ancient craftsmanship with a deep commitment to healing and tradition. He has shared his knowledge in more than 40 countries through workshops and therapeutic sessions.

Santa Ratna Shakya portrait

Newar Heritage

The Newar people are the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, with a rich cultural and artisanal tradition. Santa Ratna Shakya belongs to the Kassa caste, known for its mastery of sacred metalwork. In his Patan workshop, Santa perpetuates the ancestral techniques of alloying and hand-hammering singing bowls. Each bowl is made not only with technical skill, but also with spiritual intention, in accordance with both Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. The vibrations of these bowls are considered by many to bring harmony to body, mind, and spirit.

Santa Ratna Shakya demonstration

Full Moon Singing Bowls

Santa Ratna Shakya is the original creator of the famous Full Moon Singing Bowl. These special bowls are forged only during the full moon, a process believed to enhance their vibrational energy. Each bowl is made using a sacred 7-metal alloy—gold, silver, copper, tin, iron, zinc, and lead—symbolizing planetary harmony. They are hand-hammered, carefully tuned, and offer a long-lasting resonance ideal for healing, meditation, and ceremonial use. These bowls have become a reference for therapists and sound healers across the globe.

Full Moon Singing Bowl by Santa

Therapy and Transmission

Santa’s work goes far beyond manufacturing. He is also a sound therapist who uses singing bowls in private and group sessions to release tension, restore energetic balance, and support emotional healing. Many of his students—trained directly by him—now practice in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Santa's mission is to preserve the sacred knowledge of Himalayan sound traditions while making it accessible to all.