The Dalai Lama's Gift movie poster

The Dalai Lama's Gift

"The extraordinary time in 1981 when one determined monk brought His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and Buddhism, to America"

February 22, 2025 1h 16m

Released just last year. The Dalai Lama's Gift is a documentary film. directed by Ed Bastian. At just 76 minutes, it's a tight, focused story.

Starring Tenzin Gyatso

Synopsis

In 1981, a Buddhist monk teaching at the University of Madison, Wisconsin, made the bold request of the Dalai Lama to come and perform a rare ritual, never before done outside of India or Tibet: the Kalachakra, among the highest of the Buddhist tantric teachings. In just a few months, with a team of dedicated students, and cameras rolling, they constructed a temple and organized an event for over a thousand spiritual seekers, in a cornfield outside Madison. The incredible footage was tucked away in the Smithsonian vaults, until now. What unfolds is the story of a powerful ritual, its impact on the people that made it happen, and the meaning behind this ancient initiation.

Quick Facts

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Release Date February 22, 2025 11 months ago
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Runtime 1h 16m 76 minutes total
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Language English Original language
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Country United States of America Production

Director

🎭 Top Cast

Production Details

Status
Released
Original Language
EN

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Dalai Lama's Gift about?

In 1981, a Buddhist monk teaching at the University of Madison, Wisconsin, made the bold request of the Dalai Lama to come and perform a rare ritual, never before done outside of India or Tibet: th...

Who directed The Dalai Lama's Gift?

The Dalai Lama's Gift was directed by Ed Bastian.

How long is The Dalai Lama's Gift?

The Dalai Lama's Gift has a runtime of 1 hours and 16 minutes (76 minutes total).

When was The Dalai Lama's Gift released?

The Dalai Lama's Gift was released on February 22, 2025 in theaters.

Who are the main actors in The Dalai Lama's Gift?

The main cast of The Dalai Lama's Gift includes Tenzin Gyatso.