The Dalai Lama: Scientist

In a remarkable twist of fate, a young boy was born in Tibet with a destiny that would unfold in unexpected ways. Chosen to be the 14th Dalai Lama, this individual harbored a secret passion that would shape his life's journey: an insatiable curiosity for science and technology. In the forthcoming film "The Dalai Lama -- Scientist", His Holiness reveals a previously unknown chapter of his life, chronicling his lifelong odyssey into the world of scientific discovery and innovation.

Through rare, never-before-seen archival footage, audiences are taken on a captivating ride through the Dalai Lama's formative years. As a precocious youngster, he would spend hours disassembling mechanical toys and attempting to reassemble them; as a young adolescent, he would delve into the intricacies of electrical engineering by repairing an old movie projector and grasping the fundamental differences between AC and DC currents. His fascination with the mysteries of the universe only intensified as he grew older, using his telescope to make groundbreaking discoveries about the moon.

As the Dalai Lama's passion for science continued to flourish, he found himself drawn into in-depth discussions with esteemed engineers and electricians at hydroelectric plants in Peking. These encounters would lay the groundwork for a lifelong connection with the world of scientific inquiry. The invasion of Tibet by China in 1950, followed by his daring escape from his homeland in 1959, would forever alter the trajectory of his life.

Despite being forced to leave behind his country and freedom at the tender age of 16, and then again losing his own nation at 24, the Dalai Lama demonstrated an extraordinary capacity for resilience. He went on to create one of the most successful refugee communities in the world, a testament to his leadership and vision. His path would soon intersect with two influential physicists, David Bohm and Carl von Weizsäcker, who would become his mentors in the realm of science.

Further enriching his understanding of the natural world were encounters with renowned neuroscientist Francisco Varela, whose work would open doors to a vast expanse of scientific disciplines. From the realms of cosmology and quantum physics to cognitive science, neuroscience, molecular biology, epigenetics, and even the very nature of consciousness itself, "The Dalai Lama -- Scientist" chronicles the extraordinary dialogue that began in earnest in 1987.

Through this remarkable journey, we witness the profound impact of the Dalai Lama's presence on leading scientists, as they engage in collaborative research and publication. We also see the significant shifts in the direction of scientific inquiry across various fields, as His Holiness brings his unique perspective to the table. The resulting film is a testament to the power of human curiosity, collaboration, and innovation.