Tibetan Portrait

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This book explores a deeply spiritual culture's struggle to survive and maintain compassion amid severe aggression. The Chinese Communist invasion in 1949 resulted in widespread destruction and repression, leading to Tibet's ongoing occupation. In 1994, photographer Phil Borges traveled to Tibet and regions in Nepal and northern India housing Tibetan refugees, capturing their experiences to understand the impact on their country and culture. His journey sparked a fascination with Buddhist philosophy and the Tibetan commitment to nonviolence. Tibetan Buddhists believe that compassion and forgiveness are vital to countering global suffering. Their unique practices and beliefs offer a path to mental peace and enlightenment, which they are encouraged to pursue from a young age. They prioritize contentment and fulfillment, viewing one's state of mind as the only lasting possession across lifetimes. As Tibetans strive to preserve their culture and reclaim their homeland, they grapple with reconciling their nonviolent principles with the anger that arises from suffering. This internal conflict tests their dedication to compassion, religion, and cultural identity.