Meeting the Buddha

Description

Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, the 16th Karmapa, is the central figure in the documentary "Meeting the Buddha," which examines his influence as the head of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The film details his life and legacy through the experiences of Ole Nydahl, a young Danish hippy whose chance encounter with the Karmapa in Nepal in 1969 significantly alters his path. Alongside his wife, Hannah, Nydahl becomes instrumental in introducing Tibetan Buddhism to Western audiences, establishing numerous meditation centers across the globe. The narrative highlights the dedication of Ole and Hannah as they work to carry forward the teachings of the Karmapa, who is revered as a Living Buddha and the King of the Yogis. As they spread these spiritual teachings from Mexico City to Vladivostok, the film leaves the viewer with the ongoing challenge of sustaining this movement and the complexities that arise in adapting ancient traditions to modern contexts.