Definition of "chela"
chela1
/ˈkilə/
chela2
/ˈt͡ʃeɪ.lə/
noun
plural chelas or chele
A pupil or disciple, especially in Hinduism.
Quotations
The guru-chela relationship was a theme in many of Nicholas's paintings. In Pearl of Searching, the guru is looking thoughtfully at a pearl necklace with his chela. This symbolizes the "pearl of great price" that gives purpose to life.
2002, Warrior of Light: The Life of Nicholas Roerich: Artist, Himalayan Explorer, and Visionary, page 52