Paths of the Soul (2015) - full transcript
Docu-drama follows the journey of a group of Tibetans on a pilgrimage to Lasa, the holy capital of Tibet. The journey covers 1,200 km on foot, in a continuous repetition of prostrating one's self on the ground. Over 10 months, we see the simplicity of human relationships and the nature of family, suffering, and resolve.
KANG RINPOCHE
Paths of the Soul
We’re off to the sheepfold.
Ok.
You’re here?
Yes.
Not going to the mountain?
I’m greeting the Lama today.
You’re leaving?
Yes.
Chopping firewood?
Hum.
You are too?
Hum.
Where are you going?
Beyond the mountain.
Yangpei, grazing the cows?
Yes.
Chopping firewood?
You’re here?
Yes.
Tea ready?
Yes.
Want some?
Sure.
Isn’t your family doing invocations today?
Why aren’t you home?
Yes, we are.
I should be home,
but the yaks need to graze.
I can do invocations here.
This will do.
It’s just as good.
Your elder brother died rather young,
it’s unfortunate.
Yes.
My brother told me everyday,
that he wanted to pilgrimage to Lhasa.
He passed away
before ho could go.
Don’t be so sad.
I’m afraid I might end up like my brother.
I want to go on a pilgrimage before I die.
You’re different.
You have been to so many places.
But me, I’ve spent my whole life with yaks.
I’ve never been anywhere.
It would be great to pilgrimage.
Yes.
Uncle wants to go to Lhasa.
He’s been saying this for years.
I made a decision.
I’ll take Uncle after New Year.
Okay.
Can you take care of the house?
Yes.
The power went off.
Thubten Kelsang, light up the candles.
My father-in-law is taking Grandpa Yangpei to Lhasa.
Yes.
That’s very nice.
Brother Yangpei talks about it everyday.
Going to Lhasa.
If he can go this time,
it’ll be wonderful.
It’s Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche’s zodiac year.
Year of the horse.
Ceba’s zodiac sign is also horse, yes?
Yes.
The zodiac sign of Tsring Chodron’s child
will also be horse.
Let’s go with Nyima Zadui
to Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche.
Okay.
We can also visit the Lama Thubten.
Ceba, do you want to go?
Yeah, I do.
Me too.
What about school?
The power is back on.
We’re here to grind barley.
Yes, ok.
I hear you are going to Lhasa?
Yes, we are.
Can Tsring Chodron and Ceba join?
Yes, no problem.
When you arrive in Lhasa,
it’s year of the horse,
the zodiac year of Kang Rinpoche.
It’ll be good to go.
Yes.
So we will go together.
Good.
Sister, you are pregnant,
can you kowtow?
Yes, I can.
Do you want to go too?
I do.
But I need to ask my family.
It would be great if you could come.
Yes.
Brother, take this.
Thanks for your help.
Take it easy on the wine.
Come back for tea.
Okay.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Been drinking again?
I’m a little drunk.
Oh, not again!
You spend all your money on alcohol.
You never consider your family.
I’ve slaughtered many yaks, Rigzin Jigme.
I’m scared.
Wine comforts me.
I visited Nyima Zadui’s family.
They are going to Mount Kang Rinpoche.
I wish I could go too.
Yes.
I should atone for my sins.
Killing all the yaks…
I’m scared.
Yes.
Are you going on the pilgrimage?
Yes.
Last year,
two people died
while building our house.
For the sake of those two,
I want Rigzin Jigme and Muqu to pilgrimage.
Can they?
Yes, it would be great for them to join.
Then we go together.
It’s set then.
Ok.
Tomorrow is New Year.
Yes.
We’ll get up early tomorrow,
there’s a lot of work to do.
We will burn incense
and draw the golden and silver water.
It’s now set,
two people from our family will pilgrimage,
Rigzin Jigme and Muqu.
Is it going to be ok?
Only the elderly are left here.
We can ask the daughters to help.
You two take Gyatso along,
otherwise we’ll have to care for her,
just take her with you.
Does Gyatso want to go to Lhasa?
You’ll kowtow until a bump appears on your head.
You’re here?
Making buns?
Yes.
You’re here?
How was your New Year?
Fine.
It’s a nice day.
Yes.
How are you?
I’m fine.
You’re going on the pilgrimage?
Take our two sons too.
Yes. Nyima Zadui is also going.
We’ll let them know.
It should be ok.
That’s great.
Wangyal, your arms are injured,
can you kowtow?
I can do it.
Have some food.
Have some tea.
How much are these shoes?
40 yuan.
What if I take a dozen?
For a dozen, then 35 yuan a pair.
It’s wholesale price.
Okay.
These shoes are very good.
Can I get it cheaper?
Just for you,
850.
Can I play with this?
This is for prostration, not for playing.
Let me make this flatter.
This was originally for Tsewang Dolkar,
but it’s better suited for the child.
Yes.
This will keep the child really warm.
Yes.
Don’t worry,
I’ll be careful.
Take care.
Okay, no problem.
Stay safe!
Stay safe!
Stay safe!
We’re leaving!
Take care!
Gyatso, come help.
Wangdui, do your knees hurt?
A little.
My knees aren’t very strong.
Can you keep up tomorrow?
I’ll be fine.
Today’s weather was good.
Beautiful sun.
It hurts here.
Me too.
Be careful kowtowing tomorrow.
Watch out for the trucks.
There are many trucks.
Yes.
Let’s eat!
Lie down.
Lights off.
Lights off.
Ready?
Yes.
No.318 National Road 3436 km
Come on.
Look at my hand planks.
I should get new planks.
My shoes are worn out.
I can’t keep wearing them.
Wangyal, get me some new shoes.
Gyatso, have some tsampa.
Have some food.
We have to finish these today.
Yes.
This mountain is high,
and the weather isn’t good.
Yes.
Finish these, then we go to bed.
Yes.
We start early tomorrow
to climb Dongda Mountain.
Yes.
Have you finished yours?
It’s done.
Put it here.
Get ready for bed.
Okay.
Early morning tomorrow.
Put these over here.
Sister, we need firewood.
Sure.
Get some by the house.
Okay.
Watch yout step!
Look at your quilt.
Yak skin!
Yours is rabbit skin.
Mine is good quality.
That blanket is like a white sheet.
Wool blanket should be white.
Look at his rabbit teeth.
Look at them.
What’s wrong?
My stomach hurts!
I think I’m in labor!
Labor?
Yes.
Tsewang Dolkar, come closer!
Open your legs!
Push!
Push!
Okay, push!
Push!
Push!
Okay, push!
Close your mouth and push, ok?
Yes.
Harder!
Otherwise the baby won’t get air!
Open your legs!
Push!
Close your mouth and push.
Push!
Push!
Harder!
Push, push, push!
Okay, hurry.
Clench your teeth.
He’s coming out.
Hurry, push!
Okay, push!
Yes.
That was quick.
All is well.
Yes?
Yes, no problems.
You’re here.
We’re here.
How are you?
Much better.
Grandson!
He’s about to cry.
Has he opened his eyes yet?
Hum, he has.
He’s opened his eyes.
Grandson.
My grandson!
He wants to move.
Darling.
Grandson.
Let Grandpa hold you.
Come to Grandpa.
Grandson, come here.
His eyes are open.
What’s his name?
Have you decided?
Yes.
Dingzi Dengda.
Dingzi Dengda!
It means happiness and longevity.
Grandson.
How do you feel?
Fine.
Was it cold on the road?
No.
Good baby, don’t cry.
You’re back.
Yes.
Born on the pilgrimage.
This boy is too lucky.
He’ll have a good life.
Yes.
Wangdui, you sleep in the white tent.
Tsring Chodron, Ceba and the baby
will sleep over here.
It’s warmer here.
Okay.
Let’s do the invocation.
Okay.
No.318 National Road 3570 km
Come have some tea.
Take a break!
Have tea.
You’re inviting us over for tea?
Have some tea.
Where are you from?
We’re from Mangkang.
Yes.
Come drink tea.
Have some tea.
All of you, come drink tea.
Sit!
Are you tired?
No.
So you’re from Mangkang?
Yes. You’re building a house?
Yes, building the walls.
You are kowtowing to Mount Kang Rinpoche?
Yes we are.
Mount Kang Rinpoche.
Yes, it’s nice.
If it weren’t for this house,
we would love to go kowtowing.
Yeah, we could go together.
Then we’ll go together next time.
When did you start work on the house?
Over a month ago.
How much more time is needed?
2 more months.
It’s built very well.
Yes.
Goodbye!
Mom, my head hurts.
My head hurts!
My head hurts.
We’ll find a pharmacy in Bangda.
To buy some medicine.
Yes.
Gyatso, should you still kowtow?
Let her do it. Kowtowing is good.
My daughter, keep kowtowing.
Kowtowing brings wisdom.
Kowtowing is very good!
Yes.
Can you keep this up?
I can.
Gyatso, get a small rock.
Let’s do the invocation.
Yes.
No.318 National Road 3773 km
Hey, young man!
No red hair band while kowtowing.
Okay.
No red hair band while kowtowing.
Okay?
Okay.
Little girl.
You should walk less between kowtows.
Right?
Yes.
My friend,
when you kowtow,
your forehead should touch the ground.
Right?
Okay.
Hey, young man,
when you kowtow,
forehead to the ground.
To the ground.
Okay.
Ah, the screw is gone!
The screw!
Can we buy this nearby?
Probably not.
It’s hard to find.
Ah, it’s you guys?
Yes.
What happened?
The fuel tank screw is gone.
It’s leaking oil.
You can buy this in Ranwu.
No stores nearby.
Oh, really?
How inconvenient!
We’ll go tomorrow.
Yeah.
Where are you staying tonight?
We’ll set up tents.
No need, come to my house!
The house is big.
We’ll be ok.
The house is very big,
my children are pilgrimaging like you,
kowtowing!
I’m alone,
come over, the house is big.
Okay? Come on.
Okay.
Boys push the tractor.
Girls just walk.
Good, like this.
Okay.
Push it to the roadside.
Come.
For this pilgrimage,
you’ve been walking for so long!
This is admirable.
Yes, this morning I saw,
the man with a red hair band,
and the girl who walked too much.
When kowtowing,
you shouldn’t wear headgear.
As for the steps to take,
that depends on the incantation.
For incantations like this,
It’s 7 or 7 steps.
If you’ve made a wish,
just follow the Lama’s instructions.
Step as you wish.
The key is when you kowtow,
have a pious heart.
A pilgrimage is for the sake of others.
To wish humanity good health and happiness.
And to wish yourselves good health and happiness.
That is how you kowtow,
Yes.
Grandpa, repairing the plough?
Yes.
Ploughing the field tomorrow?
Yes, tomorrow!
How about we help?
Okay!
So much snow last night!
Snow is good.
Very good.
With moist soil,
the barley will grow fast.
Yes.
In my hometown,
we should be ploughing too.
Everyone dresses up for it.
We bring food, wine, meat and yak butter.
It’s more ceremonious than here.
Yes.
When I was the head of the village,
we’d plough for 2 or 3 days,
we’d bring food and burn incense.
It was very lively.
Young people today,
I don’t know why they rush,
they overwork the yaks.
And this is now the norm.
True!
It’s all machines nowadays.
The young people are in charge now.
Yes.
Thanks to everyone!
Come drink some barley wine!
It’s okay, Grandpa.
Thanks, it’s good.
It’s very good, thanks.
Have a drink.
I don’t drink.
He doesn’t drink, Grandpa.
Why?
He quit.
He was a butcher.
And now he is sober.
He is kowtowing to Lhasa
to redeem his past sins.
Then eat some meat!
It’s very good that you’re doing this.
For the pilgrimage, you quit drinking,
this is very good!
It is.
You are great!
It truly is very good.
Indeed!
We’re leaving tomorrow.
Tsring Chodron needs a hide for kowtowing.
Is there a store nearby?
A hide for kowtowing, I have one.
No need to buy it.
Take a look, will this do?
Yes, Grandpa.
This will do.
It’s good.
This is perfect.
Then it’s a gift to the young lady.
For you.
Thanks.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Come here, little girl.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Tsring Chodron.
Our son is crying! Is he hungry?
Yes.
How unlucky I am!
The rocks hit my leg.
Yes.
Sometimes when I stop and think,
God is very unfair.
Building the house last year,
the truck turned over,
two died, and two were injured.
I paid so much in compensation.
I’m responsible for all the family debt.
Yes.
When my grandfather was alive,
he never did anything bad,
neither did my father!
Same for me!
I just don’t understand why this happened.
The three of us,
embarked on this pilgrimage,
for the two dead men,
and to wish health and happiness to other.
Just remember you’re not alone,
many encounter similar hardships,
but your attitude is admirable.
Your leg is injured,
let’s rest for a couple of days.
Once you recover,
we can continue wholeheartedly.
When you kowtow,
keep others’ wellbeing in mind.
Yes.
Let’s do the invocation.
Yes.
It’s getting hot.
Tomorrow we’ll wear lighter clothes.
Okay.
My friend,
come have some tea, have a rest.
You kowtow well.
Yeah.
What’s your progress for a day?
Around 10 km.
Really?
Yes.
Come have some tea.
Okay.
Where are you from?
I’m from Ya’an, Sichuan,
Honhyuan County, Aba Prefecture.
Good.
How long have you kowtowed?
7 months and 17 or 18 days.
Good!
Why don’t you let the donkey pull the cart?
The donkey,
only when the road is too step for her,
then we use the donkey.
The donkey is very dear to her,
when the road is easy,
she pulls the cart herself.
Yes.
We see the donkey as our family.
Together, we go through thick and thin.
When we get to Lhasa,
we’ll take him strolling,
around the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple.
We’ll cut some of his fur,
and put it before the statue of Buddha Shakjamuni.
Then we’ll pray for him.
If he always pulls the cart,
he’ll be exhausted.
That’s very nice of you.
Yes.
Want some tsampa for the donkey?
We have some.
Good, thanks.
I won’t need a lot.
If you insist, I’ll just take these.
You can take these.
Okay, thanks.
Put the tsampa there.
Oh, put it on top.
Goodbye.
Take care!
Have a safe journey!
How much?
200 yuan.
How much is this?
50 yuan, brother.
Okay.
And those shoes?
25, brother.
Is it cheaper for 30 pairs?
Then 20 yuan.
Okay.
The total is?
20 each, 600 for 30 pairs.
Yeah?
Yes.
Water everywhere!
What now?
What should we do?
It should be fine.
How about we kowtow through it?
Let’s do it!
There was once a big mountain,
where a Lama practiced.
There was also a hunter from a poor family,
he hunted
to support his wife and children.
Each hunt,
he gave two deer to the Lama.
When there were no more deer,
on this side of the mountain,
the hunter flew over a cliff,
to hunt on the other side.
The Lama thought, he has many sins,
even he can fly over the mountain.
I, after years of spiritual practice,
can certainly fly over with ease.
Yet he ended up falling into the water.
What matters most is your heart!
We have kowtowed all this way.
If your forehead hurts,
it reflects piety in your heart
and kindness.
Wangdui already has a bump on his head,
You see my head.
as do I.
You’re not alone.
What is it?
There’s a bug.
Are you all right, brother?
Are you ok?
Are you ok?
Is your arm ok?
It’s fine.
What kind of driver are you?
I’m sorry.
A car was coming my way,
I tried to dodge it but hit you!
I have two passengers,
one is having trouble breathing,
if we don’t make it to Lhasa within two hours,
her life will be in danger!
Look.
I’m terribly sorry.
Next time be more careful!
You go first.
I’m fine.
Thank you!
Let’s take a look.
One, two, three!
The axle is broken.
It’s still a long way to Lhasa.
Also a long way back.
Even if we find a repair shop,
they may not have the right parts.
What now?
From Lhasa, it’s about 100 km more to go.
We’ll ditch the front and pull the carriage.
Can we pull it?
Let’s give it a try.
The women can kowtow behind us.
Yes.
Ready?
Okay, go.
That is the pass of Mila Mountain.
Tomorrow we will go through there.
After this, we will be close to Lhasa.
Yeah!
Mom, what are you doing now?
Taking a break.
You said Lhasa is close after this mountain.
I kind of miss home.
Me too.
I’m fine.
I’ll pass it to my sister.
I want to talk to Grandma!
Talk to Grandma.
Yes.
What are you doing now?
Grandma,
what are you doing now?
I’m here.
Don’t cry.
Do you miss me?
I miss you so much.
Sister,
what are you doing?
Yes, I miss you.
Do you miss me?
Where is my brother?
Do you guys miss me?
I miss you all.
Hey,
brother,
what are you doing?
I’m here.
I miss you!
Do you miss me?
Women, help us push the cart!
We need help!
Okay.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
The place where snow and I are to meet,
Then I think of my mother.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
The place where snow and I are to meet,
Then I think of my mother.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
We have the same mother,
But our fates are different.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
We have the same mother,
But our fates are different.
The lucky ones become Lama,
My unlucky fate takes me to lands afar.
The lucky ones become Lama,
My unlucky fate takes me to lands afar.
No.318 National Road 4504 km
There’s the Potala Palace!
We should get there by tonight.
We can rest now.
Stop, stop, stop!
This is my second eldest, Kelsang Phuntsok,
this is my aunt and her daughter.
Hello everyone.
Chodron, your uncle is here, stand up.
Master, you are here.
You have worked hard.
Please have a seat.
Sorry I’m late.
Have a seat.
You have just arrived in Lhasa?
Yes, we just got here.
I’ve been busy giving lectures.
So I wasn’t able to great you upon your arrival.
Yes.
Grandpa, I wish you good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
What’s your son’s name?
Dingzi Dengda.
Good luck and happiness, Dingzi Dengda.
Come here.
We need more money to go to Mount Kang Rinpoche.
We could find jobs.
Yes.
My friend.
Yes.
You are Lama Thubten’s relatives, yes?
Yes, we are.
The Lama said 100,000 kowtows,
would be good for me.
But I’m in poor health.
Could you kowtow on my behalf?
Yes.
I’ll repay you generously.
Your accomodation here,
is free.
Okay, thank you very much.
Enough, Gyatso!
Gyatso is so naughty!
Running around with others.
You’re here.
A little tired.
A little tired.
Pour this in the bowls.
Is he your brother?
Yes.
Where are you from?
Mangkang.
What brings you to Lhasa?
Kowtowing.
You look very young.
How old are you?
18.
So young.
How far have you kowtowed?
1,200 km.
Oh.
Walk, Dingzi.
Walk slowly.
Gyatso,
leave the baby to your sister Chodron.
You go hang the clothes.
Have you received your paycheck?
Yeah, we got it.
Hum.
100,000 kowtows will suffice,
we’re ready to leave for Kang Rinpoche.
Thank you for helping us the last two months.
You’re welcome.
We’re going back on the pilgrimage.
Want to join?
I can’t,
I can’t leave the store.
Oh.
Okay then.
I’ll come back to see you.
Yes.
It’s cold over there,
stay warm.
Okay.
Young man, you’re sleeping here?
Yes.
You can’t do that, it’s too cold!
Come and rest in our tent.
Wake up, Yangpei.
Wake up, Yangpei.
Yangpei.
Yangpei is gone.
Jigme.
Ah.
Send for the Lama, hurry up.
Okay.
My mother died in her thirties.
To raise us three kids, Uncle never got married.
Uncle loved doing invocation.
He has never fought with anyone in the village.
I took him to Lhasa,
and then to Kang Rinpoche,
to repay his kindness.
To die at the foot of Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche,
is his karmic reward.
I think he is blessed.
Passing away here
shows his karmic link to the holy mountain.
Let’s go.
Yeah.
Let’s do the invocation.
English Translation: Alvin Wang, Julia Xu, Cong Lulu
Paths of the Soul
We’re off to the sheepfold.
Ok.
You’re here?
Yes.
Not going to the mountain?
I’m greeting the Lama today.
You’re leaving?
Yes.
Chopping firewood?
Hum.
You are too?
Hum.
Where are you going?
Beyond the mountain.
Yangpei, grazing the cows?
Yes.
Chopping firewood?
You’re here?
Yes.
Tea ready?
Yes.
Want some?
Sure.
Isn’t your family doing invocations today?
Why aren’t you home?
Yes, we are.
I should be home,
but the yaks need to graze.
I can do invocations here.
This will do.
It’s just as good.
Your elder brother died rather young,
it’s unfortunate.
Yes.
My brother told me everyday,
that he wanted to pilgrimage to Lhasa.
He passed away
before ho could go.
Don’t be so sad.
I’m afraid I might end up like my brother.
I want to go on a pilgrimage before I die.
You’re different.
You have been to so many places.
But me, I’ve spent my whole life with yaks.
I’ve never been anywhere.
It would be great to pilgrimage.
Yes.
Uncle wants to go to Lhasa.
He’s been saying this for years.
I made a decision.
I’ll take Uncle after New Year.
Okay.
Can you take care of the house?
Yes.
The power went off.
Thubten Kelsang, light up the candles.
My father-in-law is taking Grandpa Yangpei to Lhasa.
Yes.
That’s very nice.
Brother Yangpei talks about it everyday.
Going to Lhasa.
If he can go this time,
it’ll be wonderful.
It’s Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche’s zodiac year.
Year of the horse.
Ceba’s zodiac sign is also horse, yes?
Yes.
The zodiac sign of Tsring Chodron’s child
will also be horse.
Let’s go with Nyima Zadui
to Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche.
Okay.
We can also visit the Lama Thubten.
Ceba, do you want to go?
Yeah, I do.
Me too.
What about school?
The power is back on.
We’re here to grind barley.
Yes, ok.
I hear you are going to Lhasa?
Yes, we are.
Can Tsring Chodron and Ceba join?
Yes, no problem.
When you arrive in Lhasa,
it’s year of the horse,
the zodiac year of Kang Rinpoche.
It’ll be good to go.
Yes.
So we will go together.
Good.
Sister, you are pregnant,
can you kowtow?
Yes, I can.
Do you want to go too?
I do.
But I need to ask my family.
It would be great if you could come.
Yes.
Brother, take this.
Thanks for your help.
Take it easy on the wine.
Come back for tea.
Okay.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Been drinking again?
I’m a little drunk.
Oh, not again!
You spend all your money on alcohol.
You never consider your family.
I’ve slaughtered many yaks, Rigzin Jigme.
I’m scared.
Wine comforts me.
I visited Nyima Zadui’s family.
They are going to Mount Kang Rinpoche.
I wish I could go too.
Yes.
I should atone for my sins.
Killing all the yaks…
I’m scared.
Yes.
Are you going on the pilgrimage?
Yes.
Last year,
two people died
while building our house.
For the sake of those two,
I want Rigzin Jigme and Muqu to pilgrimage.
Can they?
Yes, it would be great for them to join.
Then we go together.
It’s set then.
Ok.
Tomorrow is New Year.
Yes.
We’ll get up early tomorrow,
there’s a lot of work to do.
We will burn incense
and draw the golden and silver water.
It’s now set,
two people from our family will pilgrimage,
Rigzin Jigme and Muqu.
Is it going to be ok?
Only the elderly are left here.
We can ask the daughters to help.
You two take Gyatso along,
otherwise we’ll have to care for her,
just take her with you.
Does Gyatso want to go to Lhasa?
You’ll kowtow until a bump appears on your head.
You’re here?
Making buns?
Yes.
You’re here?
How was your New Year?
Fine.
It’s a nice day.
Yes.
How are you?
I’m fine.
You’re going on the pilgrimage?
Take our two sons too.
Yes. Nyima Zadui is also going.
We’ll let them know.
It should be ok.
That’s great.
Wangyal, your arms are injured,
can you kowtow?
I can do it.
Have some food.
Have some tea.
How much are these shoes?
40 yuan.
What if I take a dozen?
For a dozen, then 35 yuan a pair.
It’s wholesale price.
Okay.
These shoes are very good.
Can I get it cheaper?
Just for you,
850.
Can I play with this?
This is for prostration, not for playing.
Let me make this flatter.
This was originally for Tsewang Dolkar,
but it’s better suited for the child.
Yes.
This will keep the child really warm.
Yes.
Don’t worry,
I’ll be careful.
Take care.
Okay, no problem.
Stay safe!
Stay safe!
Stay safe!
We’re leaving!
Take care!
Gyatso, come help.
Wangdui, do your knees hurt?
A little.
My knees aren’t very strong.
Can you keep up tomorrow?
I’ll be fine.
Today’s weather was good.
Beautiful sun.
It hurts here.
Me too.
Be careful kowtowing tomorrow.
Watch out for the trucks.
There are many trucks.
Yes.
Let’s eat!
Lie down.
Lights off.
Lights off.
Ready?
Yes.
No.318 National Road 3436 km
Come on.
Look at my hand planks.
I should get new planks.
My shoes are worn out.
I can’t keep wearing them.
Wangyal, get me some new shoes.
Gyatso, have some tsampa.
Have some food.
We have to finish these today.
Yes.
This mountain is high,
and the weather isn’t good.
Yes.
Finish these, then we go to bed.
Yes.
We start early tomorrow
to climb Dongda Mountain.
Yes.
Have you finished yours?
It’s done.
Put it here.
Get ready for bed.
Okay.
Early morning tomorrow.
Put these over here.
Sister, we need firewood.
Sure.
Get some by the house.
Okay.
Watch yout step!
Look at your quilt.
Yak skin!
Yours is rabbit skin.
Mine is good quality.
That blanket is like a white sheet.
Wool blanket should be white.
Look at his rabbit teeth.
Look at them.
What’s wrong?
My stomach hurts!
I think I’m in labor!
Labor?
Yes.
Tsewang Dolkar, come closer!
Open your legs!
Push!
Push!
Okay, push!
Push!
Push!
Okay, push!
Close your mouth and push, ok?
Yes.
Harder!
Otherwise the baby won’t get air!
Open your legs!
Push!
Close your mouth and push.
Push!
Push!
Harder!
Push, push, push!
Okay, hurry.
Clench your teeth.
He’s coming out.
Hurry, push!
Okay, push!
Yes.
That was quick.
All is well.
Yes?
Yes, no problems.
You’re here.
We’re here.
How are you?
Much better.
Grandson!
He’s about to cry.
Has he opened his eyes yet?
Hum, he has.
He’s opened his eyes.
Grandson.
My grandson!
He wants to move.
Darling.
Grandson.
Let Grandpa hold you.
Come to Grandpa.
Grandson, come here.
His eyes are open.
What’s his name?
Have you decided?
Yes.
Dingzi Dengda.
Dingzi Dengda!
It means happiness and longevity.
Grandson.
How do you feel?
Fine.
Was it cold on the road?
No.
Good baby, don’t cry.
You’re back.
Yes.
Born on the pilgrimage.
This boy is too lucky.
He’ll have a good life.
Yes.
Wangdui, you sleep in the white tent.
Tsring Chodron, Ceba and the baby
will sleep over here.
It’s warmer here.
Okay.
Let’s do the invocation.
Okay.
No.318 National Road 3570 km
Come have some tea.
Take a break!
Have tea.
You’re inviting us over for tea?
Have some tea.
Where are you from?
We’re from Mangkang.
Yes.
Come drink tea.
Have some tea.
All of you, come drink tea.
Sit!
Are you tired?
No.
So you’re from Mangkang?
Yes. You’re building a house?
Yes, building the walls.
You are kowtowing to Mount Kang Rinpoche?
Yes we are.
Mount Kang Rinpoche.
Yes, it’s nice.
If it weren’t for this house,
we would love to go kowtowing.
Yeah, we could go together.
Then we’ll go together next time.
When did you start work on the house?
Over a month ago.
How much more time is needed?
2 more months.
It’s built very well.
Yes.
Goodbye!
Mom, my head hurts.
My head hurts!
My head hurts.
We’ll find a pharmacy in Bangda.
To buy some medicine.
Yes.
Gyatso, should you still kowtow?
Let her do it. Kowtowing is good.
My daughter, keep kowtowing.
Kowtowing brings wisdom.
Kowtowing is very good!
Yes.
Can you keep this up?
I can.
Gyatso, get a small rock.
Let’s do the invocation.
Yes.
No.318 National Road 3773 km
Hey, young man!
No red hair band while kowtowing.
Okay.
No red hair band while kowtowing.
Okay?
Okay.
Little girl.
You should walk less between kowtows.
Right?
Yes.
My friend,
when you kowtow,
your forehead should touch the ground.
Right?
Okay.
Hey, young man,
when you kowtow,
forehead to the ground.
To the ground.
Okay.
Ah, the screw is gone!
The screw!
Can we buy this nearby?
Probably not.
It’s hard to find.
Ah, it’s you guys?
Yes.
What happened?
The fuel tank screw is gone.
It’s leaking oil.
You can buy this in Ranwu.
No stores nearby.
Oh, really?
How inconvenient!
We’ll go tomorrow.
Yeah.
Where are you staying tonight?
We’ll set up tents.
No need, come to my house!
The house is big.
We’ll be ok.
The house is very big,
my children are pilgrimaging like you,
kowtowing!
I’m alone,
come over, the house is big.
Okay? Come on.
Okay.
Boys push the tractor.
Girls just walk.
Good, like this.
Okay.
Push it to the roadside.
Come.
For this pilgrimage,
you’ve been walking for so long!
This is admirable.
Yes, this morning I saw,
the man with a red hair band,
and the girl who walked too much.
When kowtowing,
you shouldn’t wear headgear.
As for the steps to take,
that depends on the incantation.
For incantations like this,
It’s 7 or 7 steps.
If you’ve made a wish,
just follow the Lama’s instructions.
Step as you wish.
The key is when you kowtow,
have a pious heart.
A pilgrimage is for the sake of others.
To wish humanity good health and happiness.
And to wish yourselves good health and happiness.
That is how you kowtow,
Yes.
Grandpa, repairing the plough?
Yes.
Ploughing the field tomorrow?
Yes, tomorrow!
How about we help?
Okay!
So much snow last night!
Snow is good.
Very good.
With moist soil,
the barley will grow fast.
Yes.
In my hometown,
we should be ploughing too.
Everyone dresses up for it.
We bring food, wine, meat and yak butter.
It’s more ceremonious than here.
Yes.
When I was the head of the village,
we’d plough for 2 or 3 days,
we’d bring food and burn incense.
It was very lively.
Young people today,
I don’t know why they rush,
they overwork the yaks.
And this is now the norm.
True!
It’s all machines nowadays.
The young people are in charge now.
Yes.
Thanks to everyone!
Come drink some barley wine!
It’s okay, Grandpa.
Thanks, it’s good.
It’s very good, thanks.
Have a drink.
I don’t drink.
He doesn’t drink, Grandpa.
Why?
He quit.
He was a butcher.
And now he is sober.
He is kowtowing to Lhasa
to redeem his past sins.
Then eat some meat!
It’s very good that you’re doing this.
For the pilgrimage, you quit drinking,
this is very good!
It is.
You are great!
It truly is very good.
Indeed!
We’re leaving tomorrow.
Tsring Chodron needs a hide for kowtowing.
Is there a store nearby?
A hide for kowtowing, I have one.
No need to buy it.
Take a look, will this do?
Yes, Grandpa.
This will do.
It’s good.
This is perfect.
Then it’s a gift to the young lady.
For you.
Thanks.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Come here, little girl.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Tsring Chodron.
Our son is crying! Is he hungry?
Yes.
How unlucky I am!
The rocks hit my leg.
Yes.
Sometimes when I stop and think,
God is very unfair.
Building the house last year,
the truck turned over,
two died, and two were injured.
I paid so much in compensation.
I’m responsible for all the family debt.
Yes.
When my grandfather was alive,
he never did anything bad,
neither did my father!
Same for me!
I just don’t understand why this happened.
The three of us,
embarked on this pilgrimage,
for the two dead men,
and to wish health and happiness to other.
Just remember you’re not alone,
many encounter similar hardships,
but your attitude is admirable.
Your leg is injured,
let’s rest for a couple of days.
Once you recover,
we can continue wholeheartedly.
When you kowtow,
keep others’ wellbeing in mind.
Yes.
Let’s do the invocation.
Yes.
It’s getting hot.
Tomorrow we’ll wear lighter clothes.
Okay.
My friend,
come have some tea, have a rest.
You kowtow well.
Yeah.
What’s your progress for a day?
Around 10 km.
Really?
Yes.
Come have some tea.
Okay.
Where are you from?
I’m from Ya’an, Sichuan,
Honhyuan County, Aba Prefecture.
Good.
How long have you kowtowed?
7 months and 17 or 18 days.
Good!
Why don’t you let the donkey pull the cart?
The donkey,
only when the road is too step for her,
then we use the donkey.
The donkey is very dear to her,
when the road is easy,
she pulls the cart herself.
Yes.
We see the donkey as our family.
Together, we go through thick and thin.
When we get to Lhasa,
we’ll take him strolling,
around the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple.
We’ll cut some of his fur,
and put it before the statue of Buddha Shakjamuni.
Then we’ll pray for him.
If he always pulls the cart,
he’ll be exhausted.
That’s very nice of you.
Yes.
Want some tsampa for the donkey?
We have some.
Good, thanks.
I won’t need a lot.
If you insist, I’ll just take these.
You can take these.
Okay, thanks.
Put the tsampa there.
Oh, put it on top.
Goodbye.
Take care!
Have a safe journey!
How much?
200 yuan.
How much is this?
50 yuan, brother.
Okay.
And those shoes?
25, brother.
Is it cheaper for 30 pairs?
Then 20 yuan.
Okay.
The total is?
20 each, 600 for 30 pairs.
Yeah?
Yes.
Water everywhere!
What now?
What should we do?
It should be fine.
How about we kowtow through it?
Let’s do it!
There was once a big mountain,
where a Lama practiced.
There was also a hunter from a poor family,
he hunted
to support his wife and children.
Each hunt,
he gave two deer to the Lama.
When there were no more deer,
on this side of the mountain,
the hunter flew over a cliff,
to hunt on the other side.
The Lama thought, he has many sins,
even he can fly over the mountain.
I, after years of spiritual practice,
can certainly fly over with ease.
Yet he ended up falling into the water.
What matters most is your heart!
We have kowtowed all this way.
If your forehead hurts,
it reflects piety in your heart
and kindness.
Wangdui already has a bump on his head,
You see my head.
as do I.
You’re not alone.
What is it?
There’s a bug.
Are you all right, brother?
Are you ok?
Are you ok?
Is your arm ok?
It’s fine.
What kind of driver are you?
I’m sorry.
A car was coming my way,
I tried to dodge it but hit you!
I have two passengers,
one is having trouble breathing,
if we don’t make it to Lhasa within two hours,
her life will be in danger!
Look.
I’m terribly sorry.
Next time be more careful!
You go first.
I’m fine.
Thank you!
Let’s take a look.
One, two, three!
The axle is broken.
It’s still a long way to Lhasa.
Also a long way back.
Even if we find a repair shop,
they may not have the right parts.
What now?
From Lhasa, it’s about 100 km more to go.
We’ll ditch the front and pull the carriage.
Can we pull it?
Let’s give it a try.
The women can kowtow behind us.
Yes.
Ready?
Okay, go.
That is the pass of Mila Mountain.
Tomorrow we will go through there.
After this, we will be close to Lhasa.
Yeah!
Mom, what are you doing now?
Taking a break.
You said Lhasa is close after this mountain.
I kind of miss home.
Me too.
I’m fine.
I’ll pass it to my sister.
I want to talk to Grandma!
Talk to Grandma.
Yes.
What are you doing now?
Grandma,
what are you doing now?
I’m here.
Don’t cry.
Do you miss me?
I miss you so much.
Sister,
what are you doing?
Yes, I miss you.
Do you miss me?
Where is my brother?
Do you guys miss me?
I miss you all.
Hey,
brother,
what are you doing?
I’m here.
I miss you!
Do you miss me?
Women, help us push the cart!
We need help!
Okay.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
The place where snow and I are to meet,
Then I think of my mother.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
The place where snow and I are to meet,
Then I think of my mother.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
We have the same mother,
But our fates are different.
I walk up the hill step by step,
Snow falls bits by bits onto the ground,
We have the same mother,
But our fates are different.
The lucky ones become Lama,
My unlucky fate takes me to lands afar.
The lucky ones become Lama,
My unlucky fate takes me to lands afar.
No.318 National Road 4504 km
There’s the Potala Palace!
We should get there by tonight.
We can rest now.
Stop, stop, stop!
This is my second eldest, Kelsang Phuntsok,
this is my aunt and her daughter.
Hello everyone.
Chodron, your uncle is here, stand up.
Master, you are here.
You have worked hard.
Please have a seat.
Sorry I’m late.
Have a seat.
You have just arrived in Lhasa?
Yes, we just got here.
I’ve been busy giving lectures.
So I wasn’t able to great you upon your arrival.
Yes.
Grandpa, I wish you good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
Good luck and happiness.
What’s your son’s name?
Dingzi Dengda.
Good luck and happiness, Dingzi Dengda.
Come here.
We need more money to go to Mount Kang Rinpoche.
We could find jobs.
Yes.
My friend.
Yes.
You are Lama Thubten’s relatives, yes?
Yes, we are.
The Lama said 100,000 kowtows,
would be good for me.
But I’m in poor health.
Could you kowtow on my behalf?
Yes.
I’ll repay you generously.
Your accomodation here,
is free.
Okay, thank you very much.
Enough, Gyatso!
Gyatso is so naughty!
Running around with others.
You’re here.
A little tired.
A little tired.
Pour this in the bowls.
Is he your brother?
Yes.
Where are you from?
Mangkang.
What brings you to Lhasa?
Kowtowing.
You look very young.
How old are you?
18.
So young.
How far have you kowtowed?
1,200 km.
Oh.
Walk, Dingzi.
Walk slowly.
Gyatso,
leave the baby to your sister Chodron.
You go hang the clothes.
Have you received your paycheck?
Yeah, we got it.
Hum.
100,000 kowtows will suffice,
we’re ready to leave for Kang Rinpoche.
Thank you for helping us the last two months.
You’re welcome.
We’re going back on the pilgrimage.
Want to join?
I can’t,
I can’t leave the store.
Oh.
Okay then.
I’ll come back to see you.
Yes.
It’s cold over there,
stay warm.
Okay.
Young man, you’re sleeping here?
Yes.
You can’t do that, it’s too cold!
Come and rest in our tent.
Wake up, Yangpei.
Wake up, Yangpei.
Yangpei.
Yangpei is gone.
Jigme.
Ah.
Send for the Lama, hurry up.
Okay.
My mother died in her thirties.
To raise us three kids, Uncle never got married.
Uncle loved doing invocation.
He has never fought with anyone in the village.
I took him to Lhasa,
and then to Kang Rinpoche,
to repay his kindness.
To die at the foot of Holy Mount Kang Rinpoche,
is his karmic reward.
I think he is blessed.
Passing away here
shows his karmic link to the holy mountain.
Let’s go.
Yeah.
Let’s do the invocation.
English Translation: Alvin Wang, Julia Xu, Cong Lulu