Dalai Lama's Rare Gift
A remarkable documentary about a powerful Buddhist ritual is coming to Hastings. The Dalai Lama's Gift tells the story of a rare initiation that took place in a cornfield outside Madison, Wisconsin.

The Dalai Lama performed a rare ritual, the Kalachakra, in a cornfield outside Madison, Wisconsin, in response to a bold request from a Buddhist monk. This ritual, among the highest of the Buddhist tantric teachings, had never been done outside of India or Tibet before. The event was organised by a team of dedicated students, who constructed a temple and brought together over a thousand spiritual seekers.
The documentary, directed by Ed Bastain, showcases the incredible footage of this event, which was tucked away in the Smithsonian vaults until now. The film explores the story of the ritual, its impact on the people involved, and the meaning behind this ancient initiation. With a runtime of 76 minutes, The Dalai Lama's Gift is a unique and captivating film that offers a glimpse into a significant moment in Buddhist history.
The Dalai Lama's Gift will be screened at the Electric Palace Hastings, Hastings, on Sunday, 27 December 2026. Tickets are with the button beside the article. This is a rare opportunity to see a powerful and meaningful documentary that sheds light on a remarkable event.
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