Film Screening & Discussion Program Report
Project/Program Name: Screening and Discussion (S&D)
Film: DEVOTION AND DEFIANCE
Reported by: Stanzin Gurmit, Intern
Date of Activity: 18th February, 2025
Strategic Objective: To create awareness of active nonviolence and resilience through screening and discussion.
Venue & Location: Indie by Salvation Cafe, McLeod Ganj
Total Participants: 2
Resource Person: Stanzin Gurmit (Intern), Ngawang Paldon (project officer)
Program Update: This screening took place at the Indie by Salvation Café.
The screening lasted only 34 minutes. Originally scheduled for February 14th, it was canceled due to a lack of audience. We rescheduled for February 17th, changing the time from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., but unfortunately, there were still less attendees. Despite this, I (the intern) and the project officer decided to proceed with the documentary, hoping that people might join. Two individuals showed up, but they left before the film ended. With no audience, we couldn’t hold the usual discussion and had to pack up and leave.
Introduction to the Documentary:
Devotion and Defiance delves into the intensifying efforts by the Chinese Communist Party to suppress Buddhism in Tibet, focusing on the severe crackdowns against religious practices and institutions. The book sheds light on the Tibetan people’s unwavering commitment to their spiritual beliefs despite the growing repression, highlighting their resistance in the face of growing political control. Through personal stories, historical context, and cultural analysis, it portrays the ongoing struggle for religious freedom, offering a poignant examination of how Tibetans continue to fight for the preservation of their faith and cultural identity amid authoritarian measures.
Methodology
Just proceeded with screening hoping some people might join, but it all went very unusual.
Lessons Learned and Challenges Faced:
“Don’t let a small audience dishearten you, approach the project as if you’re speaking to a full crowd.”
Suggestions for Further Improvement:
I believe the venue should be in a highly convenient location to attract both a larger and more engaged audience.
Activity Status: Completed.
