Newar Buddhism, a unique tradition in Nepal, has remained a living tradition while Buddhism in other parts of South Asia declined after the 15th century. This paper examines the survival of Newar Buddhism, with a focus on the financial support and patronage it received through donation inscriptions from the Malla era (1201–1779). The key questions explored are: Who were the patrons of Newar Buddhism in terms of caste and occupation? How were resources allocated? And how did Nepal’s patronage system differ from other part of South Asia?
I argue that, alongside royal patronage, the continuous donations from ordinary lay Buddhists were vital to the survival of Newar Buddhism. By analyzing medieval patronage patterns, this study sheds light on Newar Buddhism’s creative strategies for sustaining community support. It contributes to the broader understanding of Buddhist economics, religious sustainability, and the dynamic interactions between Buddhism and surrounding religious traditions in South Asia.