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Documentary backdrop image for A Gesar Bard's Tale (2013)
81 minPGdocumentary

Synopsis

At 35, Dawa, once an illiterate nomad, now earns a government salary as a guardian of Tibetan cultural heritage.

Deep Dive

Why Watch

  • Meet Dawa, a bard of King Gesar's epic tale.
  • See how an earthquake reshapes a Tibetan community.
  • Find out how Dawa became a guardian of cultural heritage.

Did You Know

  • Dawa was illiterate until he was 13 years old.
  • He receives a salary from the government for preserving cultural heritage.
  • Dawa is regarded as a holy man by his community.
  • An earthquake destroyed Dawa's hometown, prompting redevelopment.

Perfect For

Tibetan culture enthusiastsOral tradition followersDisaster recovery studies
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Frequently Asked Questions

What was Dawa's occupation before he became a bard?

Dawa was an illiterate Tibetan nomad whose life revolved around herding yaks.

At what age did Dawa acquire the gift of telling the story of King Gesar?

Dawa acquired the gift of telling the epic story of King Gesar at the age of 13.

What role does Dawa have in his community at the age of 35?

At 35, Dawa receives a salary from the government as a guardian of national cultural heritage and is regarded as a holy man by his community.

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