Directed and Produced by Bari Pearlman | Cinematography by Gena Konstantinakos | Edited by Carla Ruff
For centuries, Buddhist monasteries have served as spiritual and educational centers for the people of Tibet, particularly in rural areas. But for the most part, monastic life is available only to men as it has long been believed that educating a woman is a waste of valuable resources. But in Nangchen, in remote Northeastern Tibet, Kala Rongo Monastery is granting women choices they've never had before, and changing outmoded attitudes that no longer serve the greater good of the community. Nearly 300 nuns are now receiving religious and educational training previously unavailable to them, and playing an unprecedented role in preserving their rich cultural heritage even as they slowly reshape it.
DAUGHTERS OF WISDOM is an intimate portrait of these nuns, who graciously allow the camera a never-before-seen glimpse into their vibrant spiritual community and insight into their extraordinary lives. Some shy, some outspoken, all are committed to the often difficult life they have chosen, and graciously allowed our camera a never-before-seen glimpse into their vibrant spiritual community and insight into their extraordinary lives.
After winning awards and playing at film festivals and cultural institutions around the world. the film is now available for instant viewing on VOD (click above) and through the Kanopy streaming platform, available from many public and university libraries. Or to set up a screening in your community, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.
A note from the film's Director: Before his death in 2018, Lama Norlha Rinpoche was accused of sexual misconduct and assault by a few former members of his New York congregation, for which he issued a public apology. Though he appears in this film, my focus and intent has always been to share the story of these extraordinary nuns in this unprecedented historical moment. I have chosen not to silence them by pulling this film from circulation, but instead guide you to make an informed decision about viewing it. Proceeds from the sale of this film have and will continue to be donated to nuns of Kala Rongo. May their story continue to inspire hard work and hope for a better, more equitable world.
This Film Would Not Have Been Possible Without The Generous Funding and Support Of: The Jerome Foundation, The Lucius and Eva Eastman Foundation, IFP/NYSCA Distribution Grant, The Hartley Film Foundation, Flight 001, ATA Audio, Daniel Cristofano, Elizabeth Cutler & Joanna Manikas (You're the best!), Carter Etherington, Scott & Barbara Baum Gallant, Lenore & Norman Kaufman, Larry & MaryLynn Pearlman, and Zoran Princevic.