Geshe Tenzin Zopa is an internationally well-known teacher of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and culture. In 2018 he was invited by Oxford University to teach graduate students in Tibetan and Himalayan studies, and lead meditations. The students also got to watch the fascinating documentary film Unmistaken Child, which will be screened at Wentworth Falls School of Arts on Friday, July 5.
In recognition of his teaching work, in February 2019 he was awarded the prestigious Global Peace Leadership and Excellence Award by the World Peace Congress which brought together more than 130 countries to celebrate leadership in building a better society and a peaceful world.
Kunchok, father of Tsepal and Tenzin, both students at Katoomba High, came to the Blue Mountains in 2009 and has made his home in Katoomba. He saw the film Unmistaken Child on DVD and was inspired by the story of Geshe Zopa and wanted to meet him one day. This happened in Bodhgaya, India in 2017, and thus began an enduring friendship which began with their common childhood in Tibet. In the same year Geshe Zopa travelled all over Australia teaching, but was based in the Blue Mountains, which he called "a special place" and "a second home".
Geshe Zopa is again teaching in Australia and Kunchok, who has seen the film many times, has arranged the special screening at the Wentworth Falls School of Arts, along with a Q and A session with his friend and mentor. The screening has been assisted by Blue Mountains City Council, the Blue Mountains Refugee Support Group and Kunsang Yeshe Tibetan Buddhist Centre. Profits from the evening will go towards funding children's education and environmental protection in Tibet.
The film tells the true story of Geshe Zopa's search for the child who he believes is the incarnation of his own beloved teacher who had passed away.
Doors open from 5.30pm for light refreshments and the movie starts at 6.30pm. Tickets are $20 or $15 concession and can be purchased online at www.bmrsg.org.au/events/film-unmistaken-child/ or from Megalong Books.
