The Dalai Lama's Gift
“The extraordinary time in 1981 when one determined monk brought His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and Buddhism, to America”
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.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
February 22, 2025
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Ed Bastian
- Original Title
- The Dalai Lama's Gift
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English, Tibetan
- Runtime
- 1h 16m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Ed Bastian
Department Leadership Roster
Ed Bastian
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Dalai Lama's Gift.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Dalai Lama's Gift
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
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: 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.
Who directed The Dalai Lama's Gift?
The Dalai Lama's Gift was directed by Ed Bastian.
Who stars in The Dalai Lama's Gift?
The principal cast of The Dalai Lama's Gift includes Tenzin Gyatso.
When was The Dalai Lama's Gift released and how long is it?
The Dalai Lama's Gift was released in 2025 with a total runtime of 1h 16m.