Resilience · Exile · Learning
Curiosity Is a Sacred Act
In this intimate and timely portrait of contemporary Tibetan Buddhism, The Joy of Curiosity follows the lives of three young monastics – Lobzang, Kalsang, and Tashi—living in exile in India. As we circle the kora around their monastic centers, each reflects on childhoods shaped by stories of displacement, rigorous spiritual discipline, and a subtle yet profound connection to change.
Through candid conversations, spirited philosophical debates, and moments with their families of origin, we witness not only their devotion to Buddhist study, but also their embrace of science as they rise as leaders within their communities. With disarming humility, sharp intellect, and an infectious sense of humor, Lobzang, Kalsang, and Tashi embody a joyful resilience, offering a rare glimpse into vibrant and evolving spiritual legacies.
Meet Lobzang
At 20, Lobzang entered the Jangchub Choeling Nunnery in South East India. The daughter of a farmer and homemaker, and one of five children, Lobzang’s family struggled to have ample food and education. Her mother, who had not received formal schooling, was eager to ensure her children would have a better chance. “Looking at my mum’s life, I realized that if I become a mum, these are the same issues I would face.” At the nunnery, Lobzang has found a safe and stable home, and a community through which she can nourish her interests in further learning and future generations.
Meet Tashi
As a child, Tashi was known as a class troublemaker. “I didn’t like to fight, but I did fight, many times,” he tells us. In 2000, Tashi’s mother emigrated alone with her two children to Dharamsala in North India, escaping violent Chinese persecution. But new challenges awaited their family in India. “When I first came to India, I looked and spoke differently from other children. In school, the children made fun of me.” After 8th grade he entered the monastery to pursue a different life. Now, after more than 14 years of focused Buddhist studies, he is a Khenpo, and teaches Buddhist sutras to his fellow monks. “I can’t do much, but I can realize what my mom did for me and that she sacrificed her whole life for us—for me and my sister.” The strong community within the Sherabling monastery has made irrelevant any feelings of loneliness, and offered him the opportunity to continue his education even more deeply.
Meet Kalsang
Kalsang is a self-proclaimed free spirit. Although that can be at odds with the disciplined regimen of a nunnery, this young nun has found freedom even within structure. “It’s not like nuns have to only pray and debate. There’s no limit to what we can do…”. When she was 13, Kalsang’s family brought her to the Dolma Ling Nunnery in Dharamsala, and, 20 years later, she is still there, a mischievous and gregarious part of the community. “I want to be a teacher, a science teacher,” she says. “It’s based on my interests, because I’m always curious. Why is it that? Why isn’t that?” Her inquiring mind has led her to enjoy the process of scientific inquiry, and to draw parallels between what she learns and how she lives. “Even if I don’t like the rules, I still have to follow them… I mean, that’s what science also says: ‘adaptation.’”
