To commemorate the 89th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, a new documentary titled 'Never Forget Tibet: The Dalai Lama's Untold Story' was released globally. Directed by Jean-Paul Mertinez, the film delves into the Dalai Lama's incredible escape into exile and his enduring compassion. Narrated by Hugh Bonneville, the documentary features insights from those close to Tibet's history and explores the Tibetan community's culture and spirituality. With the digital release made possible through collaborations with various organizations, the film aims to shed light on the Dalai Lama's inspirational life story and his impact on the world.
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama: A Life of Compassion and Exile
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. Born in 1935, he was recognized as the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lama at the age of two and enthroned in 1940.
Escape into Exile
In 1959, Tibet faced a Chinese military invasion that forced the Dalai Lama and his followers to flee into exile. After a perilous journey, they established a government-in-exile in Dharamshala, India.
Since then, the Dalai Lama has tirelessly advocated for Tibet's independence and cultural preservation. While China has occupied Tibet for over six decades, the Dalai Lama's unwavering compassion and belief in non-violence have earned him global respect and admiration.
The New Documentary: 'Never Forget Tibet'
To commemorate the Dalai Lama's 89th birthday, the documentary 'Never Forget Tibet: The Dalai Lama's Untold Story' was released globally. Directed by Jean-Paul Mertinez, the film provides an intimate look into the Dalai Lama's life, his escape into exile, and his impact on the world.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the Dalai Lama? The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
2. Why did the Dalai Lama leave Tibet? He fled Tibet in 1959 to escape the Chinese military invasion and occupation.
3. What is the purpose of 'Never Forget Tibet'? The documentary aims to shed light on the Dalai Lama's inspirational life story and his ongoing advocacy for Tibet.
4. Who narrates 'Never Forget Tibet'? The documentary is narrated by British actor Hugh Bonneville.
5. Is Tibet still occupied by China? Yes, China has maintained a military presence and oppressive regime in Tibet since 1950.
In a surprising turn of events, Kenyan President William Ruto has cancelled two major deals with India's Adani Group after its founder was indicted in the US for corruption. The deals, worth nearly $2 billion, included a 30-year lease for control of the country's main airport and a partnership to construct power transmission lines. Ruto cited "new information" from investigative agencies and partner nations as the reason for the cancellation, drawing thunderous applause from lawmakers in his state of the nation address. The move has sparked concerns about transparency and value for money in these deals, which have faced criticism from politicians and the public.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group Security Strategic Working Group, comprising representatives from all MSG member states, has successfully completed their sixth workshop meeting in Honiara last week. They have discussed the outcomes of their consultations with NGOs and CSOs in each member country, and agreed on the next steps to finalize the MSG Peace and Security Strategy. This is seen as a significant step for the sub-region in facing common threats, and the finalized report will be tabled at the upcoming Police Commissioner's and Police Minister's Meeting in Indonesia next year.
A video claiming to show Indian and Chinese armed forces chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ amid the recent disengagement at the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh has been circulating on social media. However, the truth is that the video is not recent and has been on the internet since January 2024. It was originally shared as footage of Indian Army personnel chanting the slogan after the consecration of the idol of Hindu deity Ram at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir. A keyword search led to several news reports from January 2024, clarifying that the video is not recent and its authenticity has not been verified.
A group of foreign tourists in Vang Vieng, Laos fell ill after a night out on November 12th, possibly from drinking tainted alcohol. As of now, five deaths have been confirmed, including a British lawyer identified as Simone White and a young Australian woman. The Australian Prime Minister has expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of Bianca Jones and hopes for the recovery of her friend, Holly Bowles. Western government officials are supporting the families of the victims and urging caution for travelers in the popular backpacking destination.
Laishram Herojit, a low-level government worker, has appealed for the safe return of his family who went missing after an encounter between suspected Kuki insurgents and security forces in Manipur. Two women, including Herojit's wife, and an eight-year-old child are among the six people who went missing. Herojit has called for the release of his innocent family and has appealed to any group that may be holding them hostage to return them unharmed. He recalls getting a call from his wife during the violence, which later got disconnected, and a Bengali friend later informed him that they were taken away in a boat.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former Defence Minister, and two Hamas officials for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite rejection from Mr. Netanyahu's office, the court's decision highlights international concern over the 13-month war in Gaza and the 2023 attack on Israel. While the warrants may limit the suspects' movements, the practical implications are limited as Israel and the US are not members of the court.
Guyana's President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a ceremony at the State House, conferred upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the country's highest civilian honour, the 'Order of Excellence'. Modi, who is on a three-nation tour, expressed his gratitude and dedicated the honour to India's 1.4 billion people. This recognition is a testament to India's strong commitment towards deepening friendship with Guyana and demonstrates the country's unbiased approach towards international relations.
As the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana in 56 years, PM Modi's arrival marks a momentous occasion for the community. The Indian diaspora, which makes up over 40% of Guyana's population, eagerly awaits the world leader and shanti-doot who strives to unite the world and propel India into its golden age. PM Modi's visit marks a significant moment for the Indian community, deeply rooted in their traditions and eagerly showcasing their vibrant culture to welcome the Prime Minister. During this visit, PM Modi will also co-chair the second India-CARICOM Summit with the Prime Minister of Grenada, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration.
In a move to slow Russian advances in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to the Ukrainian military. This comes as reports state that North Korean troops have joined Russian marines and airborne units in battles throughout the country. The addition of anti-personnel mines marks a new level of assistance from the US in the ongoing conflict, with the mines being more deadly and longer-lasting than the previously provided anti-tank mines. Meanwhile, Ukraine's air defence units are actively working to repel a Russian air attack on the capital city of Kyiv.
Dmitry Medvedev, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has issued a warning about the start of World War Three due to a recent US decision allowing Ukraine to launch missiles into Russian territory. In response, Putin has signed a new decree giving Russia more flexibility in responding with nuclear weapons. Medvedev has accused the US of deliberately creating an escalation for former President Donald Trump's administration and claims Russia now has the right to launch a retaliatory strike against Ukraine and NATO facilities, which would mark the start of WWIII.