The Lama's Son

Friday, March 13, 8:30 am - 9:45 am
Directed by Kesang Tseten | Produced by Kalpa Group/KT Lama Films
2025. Nepal, Switzerland. 73 min.
Country/Region Featured: Nepal | Languages: Tibetan (Dolpo, Mustang) and Nepali

A Lama’s priestly lineage is in jeopardy because his son, a sushi chef in New York, will not return to take over. In Mustang, people are migrating to distant places in search of better lives and to escape the worsening environment. In Dolpo, where development hasn’t reached, another lama performs an ancient ritual that celebrates community, supported by a unique subsistence way of life. Then in Queens, New York, Himalayan immigrants adapt to America even as they recreate tradition and community. Is 'Shangri-La', if it ever existed, crumbling?

Distributor: shunyata film production/KT Lama Films/shunyata film production | kt lama films 

South Asia, Nepal