In a vibrant melding of art and spirituality, the Bodhipath Film Festival, jointly presented by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and the Dalai Lama’s Foundation for Universal Responsibility, has captured the city’s imagination since its opening on March 10. Now in its second day, the festival is quickly emerging as a landmark event that celebrates the profound intersection between cinematic storytelling and Buddhist teachings.
The festival’s lineup offers a curated selection of films that explore the core essence of Buddhadharma. Each screening provides a reflective journey, inviting audiences to rediscover the relevance of ancient Buddhist philosophies in the context of today’s rapidly evolving world. From visually arresting narratives to immersive auditory experiences, the films underscore the timeless teachings of the Buddha and the transformative power of storytelling.
🎥 THE BODHIPATH FILM FESTIVAL: CINEMA MEETS SPIRITUALITY ☸️
— Tibetan history in Pictures (@HistoryTibetan) March 13, 2025
HONORING BUDDHIST WISDOM & THE LEGACY OF THE DALAI LAMA.
In the heart of New Delhi, the prestigious India International Centre is set to host the first-ever Bodhipath Film Festival on March 10-11, 2025. Organized by… pic.twitter.com/ag103akdjI
Ven. Geshe Dorji Damdul, director of Tibet House, emphasized the educational potential of cinema during the festival. “People should be educated, and that education can be delivered visually and auditorily, primarily through these two mediums. Cinema, in particular, plays a great role because, while it is entertaining on the surface, it conveys a deeper message,” he remarked. His observations highlight how films can serve as modern conduits for ancient wisdom.
Beyond the film screenings, the event has featured an array of panel discussions bringing together scholars, filmmakers, and practitioners. These sessions delved into the dynamic relationship between Buddhist thought and modern cinema. Participants discussed how the art of visual storytelling can foster mindfulness and peace while bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary filmmaking.
Actor Gagan Malik, speaking at one of the panels, underscored the role of meditation in personal growth. “To achieve mindfulness, meditation is essential. It provides inner strength and enhances awareness of the mind,” Malik said, adding that the practice is beneficial across all walks of life, from artists to professionals. His insights resonated with many attendees who see meditation as a cornerstone for a balanced and reflective life.
Renowned singer Mohit Chauhan also contributed to the discourse by drawing parallels between music and spirituality. “Many things are expressed through sound, and music is a prime example. A lot of Indian spiritual music shares similar symbolism and expression with Buddhist music,” Chauhan explained. He noted the historical ties between Indian and Buddhist musical traditions, reminding the audience of the shared cultural heritage that continues to influence contemporary expressions of spirituality.
IBC Director General Abhijit Halder provided a historical perspective on the evolution of communication methods used to spread the Buddha’s enlightenment. Reflecting on the oral traditions of ancient times, Halder pointed out that, while the Buddha originally relied on verbal transmission, today’s digital platforms—from OTT services to social media—allow his message to reach an unprecedented global audience. “The Bodhipath Film Festival is a part of this effort,” he stated, reinforcing the festival’s role in modernizing the dissemination of Buddhist wisdom.
Among the films featured at the festival were notable titles such as The Cup (2011) directed by Khyentse Norbu, Geshe Ma is Born (2019) by Malati Rao, and the latest release Nalanda – A Journey Through Time (2024) directed by Surinder Talwar. Each film offers a unique exploration of Buddhist teachings through a blend of historical narrative and modern filmmaking techniques.
As the Bodhipath Film Festival continues to draw cinema enthusiasts and members of the global Buddhist community, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of film as a medium for conveying deep spiritual insights. With its thought-provoking screenings and dynamic discussions, the festival not only entertains but also educates, fostering a renewed dialogue between tradition and modernity in the heart of New Delhi.
