The Dalai Lama - Fateful Years for the Chosen One
September 15, 2025
This documentary tells the story of how the son of a simple farming family became the spiritual leader of the Tibetans.
At the age of just four years old, Lhamo Dhondup became the 14th Dalai Lama. He journeyed to the capital of Tibet, Lhasa. From then on, he was constantly surrounded by an entourage. His childhood was over.
When the People's Republic of China was founded, Mao Zedong announced that he also wanted to "liberate” Tibet. In 1950, Chinese troops advanced into Lhasa and occupied the country.
The film shows the Dalai Lama's flight into exile in 1959 -- the result of years of oppression by Chinese rulers.
For decades now, the Dalai Lama has led the Tibetan government in exile from Dharamsala, India. He has also traveled the world as a peace activist. He celebrated his 90th birthday in July 2025. Observers speculate that China will exert its influence in the appointment of a successor. The consequences for Tibet are unforeseeable.
Broadcasting Hours:
DW English
WED 24.09.2025 – 01:15 UTC
WED 24.09.2025 – 04:15 UTC
THU 25.09.2025 – 09:15 UTC
THU 25.09.2025 – 16:15 UTC
THU 25.09.2025 – 21:15 UTC
FRI 26.09.2025 – 12:15 UTC
SAT 27.09.2025 – 02:15 UTC
SUN 28.09.2025 – 08:15 UTC
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