Saturday, April 5, 2025

Empowerment - The Highest Blessings of Vajrayana Buddhism (3/7)

The Importance and Significance of Empowerment in Vajrayana

Empowerment, or initiation (Abhisheka in Sanskrit, Wang in Tibetan), is a crucial ritual within the Vajrayana tradition of Buddhism.

It serves as an essential gateway for practitioners wishing to engage in Vajrayana practices.Empowerment: The Highest Blessing

In Vajrayana, empowerment is regarded as the highest blessing a Lama can bestow. During the ritual, the Lama supplicates with deep devotion to the entire lineage of enlightened masters, from their root guru back to the primordial Buddha, Vajradhara.
 
Empowerment and the Vajra Master
True empowerment is not universally accessible. It can only be bestowed by a qualified Vajra Master from a valid lineage, one who possesses the necessary experience and has completed the required deity retreat.

On a profound level, initiation or empowerment represents the transmission of esoteric wisdom and realization from the Vajra Master to the disciple's mind. For beginners, it may appear as a ceremony of receiving blessings. 
However, for advanced practitioners, empowerment is the planting and nurturing of the seed of enlightenment. Since this transmission involves enlightened essence and wisdom that transcend ordinary perception, the Vajra Master must be a competent guru with firsthand experience in the vast ocean of reality described in Buddhist scriptures, particularly within Tantric practices. 

Consequently, mere scholarly knowledge of Buddhist texts, however extensive, does not qualify one to impart true empowerment.
Certain qualifications are essential for a master to bestow empowerment. They must possess the power and qualities necessary to effectively empower students. 

This aligns with the simple logic that one must possess something before they can transmit it to others. This is why not everyone is capable of granting empowerment. However, this does not discourage seeking Dharma teachings or paying respect to other genuine masters. 
It simply emphasizes that empowerment should be approached with utmost caution, considered only after one is completely certain of the master’s qualifications. Why is this discernment crucial? Because every empowerment entails specific samayas (sacred commitments). 

Samaya, in this context, signifies that upon receiving empowerment from a master, even if they are not one's root guru, they become an important spiritual guide, granting authorization to engage with a particular deity or Buddha. 

 
Therefore, they are considered a significant guru. Failure to uphold the samayas associated with the empowerment creates obstacles. 

This is why one should not receive empowerment indiscriminately or treat it as a mere blessing to be collected from numerous sources. Genuine Vajrayana practitioners approach empowerment with deep respect and careful consideration.
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Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification. It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 
May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit
By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

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Monday, March 31, 2025

Kurukulla: The Red Tara of Enchantment and Magnetism

 

Red Tara: Magnetizing Compassion and Transforming Desire

Red Tara, or Kurukulla, is a powerful manifestation of the Buddhist goddess Tara, renowned for her ability to magnetize positive circumstances, subdue negative influences, and transmute worldly desires into enlightened action, particularly during times of widespread distress and discord. 

Kurukulla is a powerful deity within Vajrayana Buddhism, recognized as one of the twenty-one emanations of Tara. She is typically depicted as a vibrant red, four-armed figure, strongly associated with enchantment, magnetism, and love.

Here's a detailed overview of Kurukulla:

Key Characteristics and Associations:

 * Red Color: Kurukulla's characteristic red hue symbolizes passion, energy, and dynamic action.

 * Four Arms: She is commonly portrayed with four arms, each holding symbolic implements: a flowered bow and arrow, and a flowered hook and noose. These represent her ability to attract and subdue.

 * Dancing Posture: Her frequently depicted dancing posture signifies her dynamism and active energy.

 * Enchantment and Magnetism: Kurukulla is renowned for her capacity to magnetize and enchant, and is often invoked to attract love, prosperity, and success. 

 * Emanation of Tara: As mentioned, she is one of the twenty-one emanations of Tara, the Buddhist goddess of compassion and liberation.

 * Lotus Family: Kurukulla is also associated with the Lotus family of deities.

 * Tibetan Name: In Tibetan, she is known as Kurukulle. 

Iconography:

 * Flowered Bow and Arrow: These symbolize her ability to attract and subdue influences.

 * Flowered Hook and Noose: These represent her power to bind and magnetize.

 * Dancing Posture: This signifies her dynamic energy.

 * Red Color: This symbolizes passion, energy, and active power.

Practices:

 * Mantra Recitation: Reciting her mantra is believed to invoke the desired effects of enchantment, magnetism, and love.

 * Meditation: Visualizing and meditating upon Kurukulla can assist practitioners in cultivating these qualities within themselves. 

* Offerings: Offerings such as flowers and incense are presented to Kurukulla as part of devotional practices

Magnetizing Influence: 

Red Tara is believed to attract favorable conditions, resources, and individuals conducive to spiritual practice.

Subduing Negativity:

She is invoked to pacify turbulent emotions and guide individuals towards the Dharma, fostering inner peace and harmony.

Transforming Desire:

Red Tara symbolizes the alchemical process of converting base desires into enlightened activity, harnessing their energy for spiritual growth. 

Red Tara's Significance:

Red Tara has gained considerable popularity within Tibetan Buddhism and is increasingly recognized by practitioners worldwide. Her unique attributes address contemporary challenges, making her a relevant and potent deity.

Red Tara is one among many manifestations of Tara, a central figure in Himalayan Buddhism, particularly in Tibet and Nepal. 

Other notable forms include Green Tara, Sitatapatra (White Parasol) Tara, and Kurukulla (also known as Red Tara). Tara, in her various forms, is revered as a supreme goddess, a female Buddha embodying wisdom, compassion, and enlightened activity.

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Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification.

It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 

May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 

By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

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Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Vajrayana Mythology


Garuda, an important deity of protection

Vajrayana Buddhism: An Exploration of Tantric Principles and Practices

Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tantric or Esoteric Buddhism, represents a sophisticated evolution of Buddhist philosophy and practice, originating in India and flourishing in Tibet. 

It emphasizes the utilization of advanced techniques, including mantras, rituals, and visualizations, to facilitate direct and accelerated paths to enlightenment. 

Core Concepts and Practices:

 * Vajra:

   * The term "Vajrayana" translates to "Diamond Vehicle" or "Thunderbolt Vehicle," symbolizing the vajra, a ritual implement representing the indestructible nature of enlightenment.

 * Tantras:

   * Vajrayana is grounded in tantric texts, which underscore the indivisible union of wisdom and compassion, often symbolically represented through the unification of masculine and feminine principles.

 * Mantras, Mudras, and Mandalas:

   * These sacred tools—mantras (resonant syllables), mudras (symbolic hand gestures), and mandalas (complex, geometric diagrams)—serve as potent aids in meditation and spiritual practice.

 * Deity Yoga:

   * Practitioners engage in deity yoga, a transformative practice involving the visualization of oneself as a chosen deity, thereby embodying enlightened qualities.

 * Guru:

   * The spiritual mentor, or guru, plays an indispensable role in guiding practitioners along the intricate Vajrayana path.

 Vajrapani Bodhisattva 

* Wrathful Deities:

   * The presence of wrathful deities within the Vajrayana pantheon is not intended to evoke fear, but rather to symbolize the transformative power capable of overcoming negative emotions and obstacles. 

 * Dakinis:

   * Female deities, known as dakinis, are integral to Vajrayana, often depicted as both fierce and compassionate.

 * Pantheon of Deities:

   * Buddhas and Bodhisattvas: Vajrayana inherits and expands upon the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas of Mahayana Buddhism, while also introducing unique deities specific to its tradition. 

   * Examples:

     * Vajrayogini: A prominent female deity embodying wisdom and compassion.

     * Heruka: A wrathful deity representing the transmutation of negative emotions.

     * Vajrapani: A Bodhisattva renowned for his strength and power.

     * Shiva: In certain Vajrayana lineages, Shiva is revered as a protective deity.

Origins and Dissemination: 

 * India:

   * Vajrayana originated in India around the 6th or 7th century CE, integrating tantric principles into established Buddhist teachings.

 * Tibet:

   * Vajrayana became the predominant form of Buddhism in Tibet, where it continues to hold a significant place in spiritual life.

 * Other Regions:

   * Vajrayana is also practiced in Nepal, Bhutan, and Mongolia.

Key Characteristics:

 * Accelerated Path:

   * Vajrayana is perceived as a more expeditious path to enlightenment compared to other Buddhist traditions.

 * Direct Experience:

   * Emphasis is placed on direct, experiential realization of the fundamental nature of reality.

 * Non-Dualism:

   * Vajrayana teachings underscore the non-dualistic nature of reality, recognizing the interconnectedness of samsara (cyclic existence) and nirvana (liberation).

 * Transformative Potential:

   * Vajrayana posits that even negative emotions and experiences can be transmuted into pathways to enlightenment.

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Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification.

It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 
May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 
By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

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Empowerment - The Highest Blessings of Vajrayana Buddhism (2/7)

 

Samantabhadra Bodhisattva 
The Importance and Significance of Empowerment in Vajrayana

Empowerment, or initiation (Abhisheka in Sanskrit, Wang in Tibetan), is a crucial ritual within the Vajrayana tradition of Buddhism. It serves as an essential gateway for practitioners wishing to engage in Vajrayana practices.Empowerment: The Highest Blessing

In Vajrayana, empowerment is regarded as the highest blessing a Lama can bestow. During the ritual, the Lama supplicates with deep devotion to the entire lineage of enlightened masters, from their root guru back to the primordial Buddha, Vajradhara.

Through this supplication, the blessings of all lineage masters, whose minds are inseparable from the Dharmakaya mind of all Buddhas, converge upon the Lama. By receiving the Lama's blessing, practitioners also receive the blessings of all Buddhas.

The Importance of a Pure Lineage 

Therefore, it is vital to follow a master who upholds a pure, unbroken lineage in the propagation and practice of Dharma. Connecting with such a Lama allows practitioners to receive the full blessings of the Buddhas through them. 

The Swift Path of Vajrayana: Empowerment and Lineage 

Vajrayana, the "swift path," offers direct, experiential instructions and the profound blessings of an unbroken lineage of enlightened masters. 

Through unwavering faith and dedicated practice, enlightenment is attainable within this very lifetime. Therefore, connecting with a master who upholds a pure, unbroken lineage is paramount. 

Garuda, is an important deity of protection 

The Significance of Empowerment:

Empowerment, in the Vajrayana context, is a transmission of esoteric wisdom and realization. It is not merely a ceremony. Only a qualified Vajra Master, possessing direct experience and having completed the necessary retreats, can bestow it. 

For beginners, it imparts blessings; for advanced practitioners, it plants the seed of enlightenment. 

This transmission transcends mundane knowledge, requiring a master who has personally explored the depths of reality as described in Buddhist Tantric scriptures. Mere scholarly expertise is insufficient. 

A genuine master must possess the inherent power and qualifications to empower students.

Because empowerment establishes samaya, a sacred bond, careful consideration is vital. Samaya signifies a profound connection with the master, making them an important guru. Breaking this bond creates obstacles.

Therefore, exercise discernment and approach empowerment with the utmost respect. 

While seeking Dharma teachings and paying respects to genuine teachers is beneficial, reserve the profound act of empowerment for a master in whom you have complete trust. 

Do you value our work?

If you find our blog helpful, please consider supporting our Buddhist research and development with a donation.

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Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification. It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 
May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 
By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

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Sunday, March 9, 2025

Om Ami Dewa Hrih - Amitabha Buddha

The Power of "Om Ami Dewa Hrih" 

The mantra "Om Ami Dewa Hrih" holds significant importance in Buddhist practice, particularly within traditions honoring Amitabha Buddha. 

It is believed that reciting this sacred phrase purifies negative emotions, fosters compassion, and strengthens the potential for rebirth in Amitabha's Pure Land, a realm of ultimate peace and bliss. 

Essentially, this practice serves as a conduit to connect with Amitabha Buddha's benevolent energy and cultivate positive mental states through the repetition of these potent syllables. 

By reciting this mantra—Om Ami Dewa Hrih, the 6 afflictive emotions are purified, and the qualities of the 6 Paramitas are accomplished. 

We increase our love and compassion and thereby destroy self-grasping. If the mind is not distracted, you will see the nature of the mind. 

Understanding the Mantra's Components:

 *Om: Represents the universal sound, symbolizing ultimate reality and the interconnectedness of all things.

 *Ami: Denotes Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light and Compassion.

*Dewa: Signifies divine or heavenly qualities, reflecting Amitabha's enlightened nature.

*Hrih: Is considered a "seed syllable," encapsulating the essence of compassion and wisdom. 

Benefits of Recitation:

 * Mental Purification: The mantra is believed to cleanse the mind of negative thoughts and emotions, promoting inner peace, clarity, and emotional equilibrium.

 * Cultivation of Compassion: By focusing on Amitabha's boundless compassion, practitioners aim to develop a greater sense of empathy and kindness towards all beings.

* Aspiration for Rebirth in Pure Land: Consistent and sincere recitation of this mantra is thought to increase the likelihood of being reborn in Amitabha's Pure Land, a realm free from suffering and conducive to enlightenment. 

In Summary:

The recitation of "Om Ami Dewa Hrih" is a powerful practice for those seeking to cultivate inner peace, compassion, and a connection to Amitabha Buddha. 

Through understanding the meaning of its syllables and engaging in regular recitation, practitioners can experience the transformative benefits of this sacred mantra.

Do you value our work?
If you find our blog helpful, please consider supporting our Buddhist research and development with a donation.

Donate via PayPal: https://bit.ly/3ywRH2N

Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification. It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 
May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 
By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

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The picture(s) are intended for editorial use only.




 


Friday, March 7, 2025

Empowerment - The Highest Blessings of Vajrayana Buddhism (1/7)

Vajradhara is the Primordial Buddha in Tantric Buddhism. 

The Importance and Significance of Empowerment in Vajrayana

Empowerment, or initiation (Abhisheka in Sanskrit, Wang in Tibetan), is a crucial ritual within the Vajrayana tradition of Buddhism. It serves as an essential gateway for practitioners wishing to engage in Vajrayana practices. 

Empowerment as a Gateway

Just as a door is necessary to enter a house, empowerment is the necessary entry point into Vajrayana. Without it, practitioners cannot effectively engage in the practices.

Stages of Vajrayana Practice and Empowerment

Vajrayana practice encompasses two primary stages:

 * Developing Stage: This stage involves the visualization of deities (yidams). To begin visualizing a specific deity, practitioners must first receive the corresponding empowerment. 

Vajrapani, the protector of Buddha’s teachings, symbolizing power and fearlessness. 

 * Completion Stage: Following the developing stage, the completion stage involves more advanced practices.

Before embarking on any sadhana (practice) related to a deity, practitioners must receive the appropriate empowerment, along with explanations and instructions from a qualified Master. 

Validity and Effectiveness of Tantric Practice

A tantric practice is considered valid and effective only when a qualified master transmits the power of the practice directly to the student through empowerment. This transmission ensures the authenticity and efficacy of the practice.

Empowerment: The Highest Blessing

In Vajrayana, empowerment is regarded as the highest blessing a Lama can bestow. During the ritual, the Lama supplicates with deep devotion to the entire lineage of enlightened masters, from their root guru back to the primordial Buddha, Vajradhara.

Through this supplication, the blessings of all lineage masters, whose minds are inseparable from the Dharmakaya mind of all Buddhas, converge upon the Lama. By receiving the Lama's blessing, practitioners also receive the blessings of all Buddhas.

The Importance of a Pure Lineage

Therefore, it is vital to follow a master who upholds a pure, unbroken lineage in the propagation and practice of Dharma. Connecting with such a Lama allows practitioners to receive the full blessings of the Buddhas through them.

Do you value our work?

If you find our blog helpful, please consider supporting our Buddhist research and development with a donation.

Donate via PayPal: https://bit.ly/3ywRH2N

Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification. It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 

May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 

By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

Note
I do not own or infringe any copyright on the picture(s).
Picture(s) courtesy and credit to the rightful
distributors and/or studios
The picture(s) are intended for editorial use only.


 

The Primordial Buddha - Vajradhara

Vajradhara: The Primordial Buddha of Vajrayana

Vajradhara is a central figure in Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tantric Buddhism. He is revered as the Adi-Buddha, or primordial Buddha, considered the ultimate source of all Buddhist tantric teachings.

Meaning and Symbolism

The Sanskrit term "Vajradhara" translates to "diamond-holder." He is typically depicted holding two symbolic objects: 

In the Tibetan language, Vajradhara is known as Dorje Chang. Vajradhara, meaning "Vajra Holder" or "Bearer of the Thunderbolt," is a central figure in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in the Tantric and Vajrayana traditions, symbolizing ultimate enlightenment and the essence of the Dharmakaya (truth body).

Here's a more detailed explanation and symbolism and significance:

Vajradhara embodies the essence of Buddhahood and is considered the primordial Buddha, the Dharmakaya Buddha. 

He is depicted as dark blue, representing the quintessence of enlightenment. He is seen as the supreme essence of all Buddhas and the tantric form of Shakyamuni Buddha.

In the Vajrayana tradition, Vajradhara is the progenitor of the system and the source of the Five Symbolic Buddhas and Vajrasattva. He is also seen as an activity emanation of Buddha Samantabhadra in the Nyingma tradition.

  • Iconography:

    • Vajradhara is often depicted holding a vajra (a thunderbolt or sceptre) in his hands, symbolizing spiritual power and firmness of spirit.

    • He is sometimes shown with a consort, representing the union of wisdom and compassion. 

  • Historical Context:

    • The concept of Vajradhara evolved with the development of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, moving from a focus on the historical Buddha to more transcendent representations.

    • In the New (Sarma) Schools, Vajradhara is seen as the secret or inner form of Shakyamuni Buddha and the combined essence of all Buddhas. 

  • Relationship to other deities:

    • In Anuttarayoga Tantra, Vajradhara emanates the forms of the Five Symbolic Buddhas and Vajrasattva, followed by meditational deities like Guhyasamaja, Shri Hevajra, and Chakrasamvara.

* Vajra (thunderbolt): Representing indestructible energy and skillful means.

 * Bell: Symbolizing emptiness and wisdom.

These objects, held together, illustrate the union of skillful means and wisdom, a core concept in Vajrayana.

Significance

Vajradhara holds profound significance within Vajrayana: 

 * He embodies the highest state of enlightenment.

 * He is understood to be the same mental continuum as Buddha Shakyamuni, but manifests a distinct aspect.

 * He is considered the originator of Vajrayana Buddhism and its tantric practices.

 * He is the source from which all tantric teachings emanate.

Appearance

Vajradhara's iconography typically includes the following characteristics: 

 * He is often depicted with a dark blue complexion.

 * He commonly appears with a single face and two arms.

 * His expression is generally peaceful.

 * He is frequently shown holding the vajra scepter and bell in the vajra embrace gesture, symbolizing the union of his attributes.

Alternative Names

Vajradhara is also known by the following names:

 * Dorje Chang (Tibetan)

 * Jīngāng zǒng chí (Chinese)

Do you value our work?
If you find our blog helpful, please consider supporting our Buddhist research and development with a donation.

Donate via PayPal: https://bit.ly/3ywRH2N

Note: Vajrayana offers countless skillful and powerful methods that, when practiced correctly, can significantly accelerate the processes of accumulation and purification. It is crucial to have pure motivation and understand that Vajrayana practice is not intended to increase one's ego, power, or self-interest.

Thank you for reading. May you find peace and great bliss. Your support helps spread the Buddha’s precious teachings and turn the Dharma wheel in the world.

Aspiration for Bodhichitta: 
May the precious Bodhichitta, which has not yet arisen, arise and not diminish, but rather increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit: 
By this merit, may we swiftly attain omniscience. Having overcome the enemies of wrongdoing, may we liberate all beings from the ocean of existence, with its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death. 

Note
I do not own or infringe any copyright on the picture(s).
Picture(s) courtesy and credit to the rightful
distributors and/or studios
The picture(s) are intended for editorial use only.