 | THE GIFT OF DHAMMA
(Dhamma Dana) | NY Premiere |
synopsis
In Myanmar (Burma), "The Golden Land of Buddhism," monasteries and meditation centers sprinkle the tropical countryside. Isolated from modernity, it is a land that is home to one of the most peaceful spiritual traditions in the world: Theravada Buddhism. In the Theravada tradition, which is followed by 90% of Burmese people, peace and freedom are not pursued externally. The Theravada Buddhists find freedom within themselves. The teachings of inner liberation are propagated by the Sangha: the community of ordained monastics. In order to survive, the Sangha relies on Sangha Dana: the gifts and offerings given by lay devotees. It is by the merit of Sangha Dana that the order of monks and nuns can continue to recompense Sangha Dana with Dhamma Dana: the sacred gift of the Buddha's teachings.Dhamma Dana presents the gift of Dhamma with a serene rhythm, revealing how the Burmese Buddhists find inner freedom. Delving deep into the monastic tradition of Myanmar, the film documents a powerfully peaceful spiritual tradition persevering in modern times, something Westerners seldom experience first hand.
biography
Theodore Martland has been making films since he was 12 years old. During his undergraduate education at the University of Richmond he was able to complete two professional quality documentary films in addition to graduating with honors from Phi Sigma Tau, the International Honors Society for Philosophy. He has lived and studied abroad in Sweden and India, faring well in two very different cultures. He has completed Uppsala University’s International Media and Communication Studies Program in London. He has written, edited, and photographed an independent documentary: Dhamma Dana, which was filmed entirely in Myanmar. Dhamma Dana is only his second work. Requiring a trip around the world, a complete immersion into the radically different mindset of Buddhism, and a triumph over the challenges of much international red tape. Dhamma Dana is a testimony to his creativity and his determination to make groundbreaking films.
Director's IMDb Page
filmmaker's note
"The mind must be holy, holy mind is most important."
In order to understand another culture we much approach it with an open mind. Dhamma Dana opens the door to both open your mind and understand a beautiful culture. It is your responsibility to make an effort to bridge the gap between cultures and help establish a world of mutual understanding. In addition to East meeting West politically and economically, the coming years will call for a religious and spiritual communion. Dhamma Dana provides a unique insight into the ancient spiritual traditions of Myanmar (Burma), a culture virtually isolated from the modern West.
notes
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