The Cinema of Khyentse Rinpoche: Workshop with Gopala Krishna

A Film Appreciation Workshop facilitated by Film Maker & Founder of Himalayan Film School, Gopala Krishna
September 5 – 7, 2025

The Workshop—
In this 3-day Film Appreciation Workshop where we explore the cinematic art  of Film Maker and Buddhist Lama, Khyentse Norbu Rinpoche, by watching, analysis and discussing his films.
If the idea of immersing yourself in cinema and  connecting with fellow cinephiles over discussions and learning activities, appeals to you, we invite you to join our workshop.
No prior experience with films or film making is necessary.

The Dharma—
The films of Khyentse Rinpoche offer a unique perspective on how the art of filmmaking can convey deep spiritual truths, complex themes and the essence of human experience. In this workshop, we will journey through his cinematic works, examining the intricate ways in which Buddhist themes are woven into storytelling. By exploring these films, we hope to deepen our understanding of both Dharma and the transformative power of cinema, inviting participants to reflect on how art can illuminate the path to transformation and offer insights into the human condition.

The Art of Cinema—
The Workshop offers an immersive learning experience into the art of watching and analyzing films. Through guided discussions and analysis, participants learn to critically engage with films, examining aspects like plot, character development, themes, narrative structure, and visual style. Whether you’re a casual film aficionado or a passionate filmmaker, this workshop offers tools to better appreciate the films you watch, fostering a deeper understanding of the art and craft of Cinema.

About the Film Maker and the Films—
Khyentse Norbu Rinpoche is a Bhutanese Lama, filmmaker, and writer. He has directed six major films so far. He is also the author of several published books such as What Makes You Not a Buddhist, Not For Happiness: A Guide to the So-Called Preliminary Practices, The Guru Drinks Bourbon?, Living is Dying, and several non-fiction works on Tibetan Buddhism.
Rinpoche wrote and directed his first award-winning film The Cup (1999) which won 6 international film awards, and was nominated for three more. The New York Times, in its review for the film, called him “a born filmmaker;”
His second film, Travellers and Magicians (2003), has the distinction of being the first feature film to be produced in Bhutan.
His next film Vara: A Blessing (2013) opened South Korea’s famed Busan International Film Festival. It was the first time that the South Korean festival has not opened with either a local Korean or a Chinese film.
Hema Hema: Sing Me A Song While I Wait (2016) premiered at the Locarno Festival in 2016, and received an honorable mention from the Platform Prize jury at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival.
Looking for a Lady With Fangs and a Moustache (2019), tells the story of a skeptical entrepreneur seeking spiritual advice from an eccentric Buddhist monk who predicts the man’s imminent death, unless he can locate an elusive lady with fangs.
His latest film, Pig at the Crossing (2024), follows Dolom, a 29-year-old YouTube creator and new teacher in Bhutan.

About the Facilitator—

Gopala Krishna is a film maker based in the Western Himalayas, and is the founder of Himalayan Film School and Founder, Festival Director of Mussoorie International Film Festival, currently in the third edition this year. He studied his Masters in Communications from MICA, Ahmedabad, and has several years of work experience as an Assistant Director in the film industries of Bombay and Hyderabad.

Daily Schedule—
Time                               Activity
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM      Session #1
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM    Tea Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM    Session #2
12:00 PM –  2:00 PM     Lunch Break
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM        Film Screening #1
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM        Tea Break
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM        Discussion Session
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM        Dinner
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM        Film Screening #2
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM      Discussion Session

Note: Attendance at all screenings, sessions, and discussions is mandatory.

Schedule of Film Screenings—
Friday, September 5
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: The Cup (1999)
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Travellers and Magicians (2003)
Saturday, September 6
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Looking for a Lady with Fangs & Moustache (2019)
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Vara: A Blessing (2013)
Sunday, September 7
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Hema Hema (2017)
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Pig at the Crossing (2024)

By donation, no fees
Link to Register : https://forms.gle/D3PtkqHUgRFknbuU9
For details, email us at info@buddhapada.in Or, Call or Whatsapp +91 8927243259