Establishing Theravada Buddhism in Cuba

Marajina Bhikkhuni talks about her path to monastic life, her work to help the Theravada tradition take root in Cuba, and the inspiring growth of dharma communities across Latin America.

By Mariana Restrepo

Ayya Marajina Bhikkhuni
Ayya Marajina Bhikkhuni with the sangha in Cuba. Image courtesy of Theravadacuba.org
Buddhadharma

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In this interview, Buddhadharma‘s Mariana Restrepo speaks with Marajina Bhikkhuni, a Cuban-American Theravada monastic devoted to spreading the dharma in Cuba and across Latin America. Marajina Bhikkhuni shares reflections on navigating cultural syncretism, supporting a dedicated yet resource-limited sangha, and fostering monastic aspiration throughout the Spanish-speaking world. This conversation offers a glimpse into the challenges and profound resilience of Buddhist communities emerging in new cultural landscapes. For more information and to support Marajina Bhikkhuni’s activities, visit  https://www.theravadacuba.org.



Mariana Restrepo

Mariana Restrepo — formerly the deputy editor of Buddhadharma, Lion’s Roar’s online source for committed Buddhists — is the public engagement strategist for 84000, a nonprofit organization dedicated to translating the Tibetan Buddhist canon and making it freely accessible to all.

Ayya Marajina Bhikkhuni

Ayya Marajina Bhikkhuni received pabbajja (2010) and upasampada (2012) at Aranya Bodhi Hermitage, California, with Venerable Tathaloka Maha Theri as pavattini. She has practiced meditation for over 15 years, now seeing the Dhamma as the highest blessing. Dedicated to practicing and teaching the Satipatthana and Brahmaviharas, she shares the transformative power of the Dhamma in Spanish and English. A Cuban-American, Ayya is working to establish the first Theravada temple in Cuba. She leads a Sunday morning meditation and Dhamma talk livestream in Spanish.  Her first book “Pa’ alante es pa’ lla” is currently being edited. Residing at Bhava Nirodha Nilaya in Florida, she also cares for her mother.