Film Screening & Discussion Program Report

Project/Program Name: Screening and Discussion (S&D)

Film: “Thai Women Fighting for Spiritual Equality”
Reported by: Stanzin Gurmit, Intern
Date of Activity: 17th January 2025
Strategic Objective: To raise awareness on active nonviolence and resilience through this program
Venue & Location: Indie by Salvation Cafe, McLeod Ganj
Total Participants: 4
Resource Person: Stanzin Gurmit (Intern)

Program Update:

The screening took place at Indie by Salvation Café and was attended by an engaged audience who found the topic of gender inequalities in Buddhism to be a new and insightful subject. The discussion that followed was productive, with one participant sharing her perceptions of Buddhism, shaped by her travels to Buddhist countries such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. She expressed surprise at the documentary’s depiction of women facing spiritual inequalities despite their peaceful and nonviolent approach.

Introduction to the Documentary:

The documentary explores the evolving movement of women in Thailand who challenge age-old traditions by seeking ordination as Theravada Buddhist monks. Despite Thai law prohibiting female ordination and the Supreme Sangha Council’s assertion that female monks have never existed in the country, advocates argue they are reviving an ancient tradition initiated by the Buddha himself when he ordained his stepmother.

Venerable Dhammananda, Thailand’s first female Theravada monk, became a symbol of this movement in 2003 after being ordained in Sri Lanka. As the Abbess of Thailand’s first all-female monastery, she offers temporary ordination to other women, including Wanida ‘Anne’ Lertpanyawai, who embarks on a spiritual journey to reclaim the saffron robe. The movement, led by figures like Dhammananda, represents a historic push for gender equality within Buddhism in Thailand despite resistance from traditionalist groups.

Methodology:

• A brief introduction to the organization and the documentary was provided before the screening.
• The documentary, with a runtime of 28 minutes, was presented to the audience.
• Following the screening, an interactive discussion session was conducted, where participants shared their insights and reflections.
• The event concluded with an expression of gratitude to the participants and appreciation for the collaboration with Indie by Salvation Cafe.

Lessons Learned and Challenges Faced:

• Key Takeaway: “Do not let a small audience dishearten you; approach the project as if addressing a full crowd.”
• The challenge of a limited audience size was noted; however, the quality of engagement remained high.

Suggestions for Further Improvement: Consider selecting a venue in a more accessible and high-traffic location to attract a larger and more diverse audience.

Activity Status: Completed.