A very interesting talk given as part of the Aspects of Angkor series which traces the introduction of bronze work in SE Asia, and also the technologies that are involved in the work.
Reconstructing the Ruined Buddhist Complex of Banteay Chhmar
A presentation by Oliver Cunin on Banteay Chhmar, a Mahayana Temple, which is the largest of the Angkorian sites outside of the main complex itself.
Divine Dwellings: The Architectural Context of Khmer Sculpture
A very good overview of the development of Khmer architecture and statuary given by Helen Jessup as part of the Aspects of Angkor series of lectures at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington
Beating the Bomb – The History of CND
Documentary about the founding, history, struggles and successes of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament.
Tears of Gaza
A devastating documentary on the effects of modern warfare, concentrating on people who are undoubtedly innocent of any crime or provocation: the children who were caught up in a war zone.
Somawati Stupa Vandana led by Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero
Recollections of an impressive event in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka in 2004, and a video of a similar occasion from 2009.
Roots of Paradise (Sri Lanka)
A 40-minute film covering the history and culture of Sri Lanka, and looking at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura, and moving on to Ritigala, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and finally the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Arnaud Desjardins: The Message of the Tibetans 2, Tantrism
The second of Arnaud Desjardin’s films about Tibetan Buddhism in which he looks more closely at the religious side of the culture, with an examination of the rites and rituals, yogic practices and meditation involved in Tantric Buddhism.
Arnaud Desjardins: The Message of the Tibetans 1, Buddhism
In 1964 and 1965 the French filmmaker Arnaud Desjardins gained access to the Tibetan community in exile, in the first filming of their life and culture allowed by the Dalai Lama since going into exile, which was compiled into two films which I will be showing over the next couple of weeks.
Bodies Donated to Science and Monks
Contemplation of the charnel grounds and giving gifts to others are two of the ways the Buddha recommended to overcome selfishness. Here are some reflections on the subject, followed by today’s documentary which is about people who donate their bodies to medical science.