Michele Comelli – DSAAM, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice (2024–present)

Recipient of a PhD scholarship funded by the UBI Study Center, with the project:"Buddhist Studies"

Michele Comelli’s research explores the spiritual and medical practices known as mendrub (sman sgrub) within the Tibetan anthology Yuthok Heart Essence (G.yu thog snying thig), attributed to Sumton Yeshe Zung in the 12th century. These practices involve the ritual consecration of medicines through tantric visualizations and yogic meditations that transform natural compounds into "nectar" (bdud rtsi) for long life.

The main focus is on the role of Zurkhar Nyamnyi Dorje (1439–1475?) in systematizing and developing these practices, and the continuity of the tradition through his successors, especially Zurkharwa Lodrö Gyelpo. The project involves a historical-philological analysis of mendrub practices from the 12th to 17th centuries, with special attention to symbolism, ritual formulas, key texts, and commentaries.

It also includes collection and translation of primary texts, analysis of ritual symbolism, and, if possible, interviews with contemporary practitioners.