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Kshetrapala: The Protector Who Rides a Bear

Kshetrapala is one of five retinue figures belonging to the practices of Shadbhuja Mahakala (one face, six hands) originating with the Shangpa Kagyu Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Kshetrapala, wrathful with one face and two hands, can typically be recognized by the brown or black bear that he sits or stands atop as a mount. For very wrathful rites and rituals Kshetrapala is practiced independently from the primary Shadbhuja Mahakala. In these fearsome situations Kshetrapala is often paired with a wrathful consort. (See Kshetrapala Outline Page).