Matthieu Ricard converted to Buddhism at the end of the 1960s. As a close friend of the Dalai Lama, he rose to international prominence through his charity work and the ease with which he communicates to the public ideals of meditation, peace, altruism and compassion. These values come across clearly in his photographs. 

 

While looking at Ricard's countless images, this documentary strives to broaden our view of beauty in the world and its inhabitants, while providing insights into the Kingdom of Bhutan and the lives of its people.

Bhutan, which has been isolated from the rest of the world for a long time, has been forced to break out of isolation. On his return to the small kingdom, Matthieu Ricard rediscovers the unique spirituality that reflects the thinking of his former master, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. 

Matthieu Ricard visits rituals in difficult-to-access locations and meets a remarkable variety of people. They are what make this deeply Buddhist country so rich. Despite its favourable carbon footprint, the country faces climate change threats. On one of the world's highest glaciers, Matthieu Ricard vividly illustrates the issues and challenges confronting Bhutan - and the rest of humanity.

 

For more on this series, follow this link