The documentary ‘Never Forget Tibet: The Dalai Lama’s Untold Story’ was globally released on Saturday to mark the 89th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, celebrated for his principles of non-violence and compassion.
Directed by Jean-Paul Mertinez, the documentary marks the first cinematic portrayal of the Nobel Peace Laureate’s remarkable escape into exile, featuring his own words and insights.
It highlights the pivotal role of the late Havildar Mander Singh, the Indian political officer who facilitated the Dalai Lama’s safe passage.
The film however delves into the Dalai Lama’s profound compassion amidst today’s global challenges, exploring Tibetan culture, ancient spirituality, and the community in exile.
British actor Hugh Bonneville, known for ‘Downton Abbey’ and ‘Paddington’, narrates the documentary, which features music by Grammy-nominated artist Anoushka Shankar and Rani Singh’s book ‘An Officer and His Holiness’ inspires it.
Compassionate Films produced the documentary, with executive producers Lyndon Baldock, Gavin Patterson, and Rani Singh, in collaboration with The Italian Buddhist Union, Rome, Italy.
The feature-length documentary is now available on leading streaming platforms such as Apple TV+, Amazon, and Google Play, reaching audiences globally.
In 1959, after the Chinese suppression of the Tibetan national uprising in Lhasa, the Dalai Lama and over 80,000 Tibetans fled into exile in India and neighboring countries.
After a perilous journey lasting three weeks, the Dalai Lama initially settled in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, before establishing his residence in Dharamsala, which now serves as the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile.
Reflecting on the plight of Tibetans in exile, the Dalai Lama remarked in 1960 before moving to Dharamsala, “Our priority must be resettlement and the continuity of our cultural traditions. We, Tibetans, would eventually prevail in regaining freedom for Tibet.”
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