MOLA - A Tibetan Tale of Love and Loss (2025) Movie Script
You cut those pretty thick.
I'll take a short break.
We are looking forward
to your birthday party.
See you soon, all the best.
Look how beautiful.
Come, sit here.
When I pray,
I include all living beings
and do it for their
benefits too...
so that they may enter paradise.
Every time I recite the Om Mani
Peme Hung, I think of this.
I don't think I have
that long to live.
Maybe I will live
three more years?
I don't think I'll live longer.
Who knows, right?
That's soon.
Who knows, suddenly you're dead.
Are you homesick for Tibet?
-Yes...
-You think of Tibet every day?
No, not every day, but I
would like to die in Tibet.
I dont think about
it all the time.
Why do you want to go?
Now that I am old
I would like to die in the
religious paradise in Tibet.
And you are not afraid to die?
-Im not afraid.
-Good.
I see... so this is...
So this is your last wish,
isn't it?
Yes.
Whats wrong,
your eyes are full of tears.
So what, I am sad.
What happened?
Why should you be sad?
If you leave,
of course I will be sad.
-You don't have to be sad.
-Why not?
You should think:
She's old and it's
wonderful that
she can die there.
Of course I think that,
but still I am very sad.
-We lived together for 64 years.
-Yes...
And so...
if you just leave
all of a sudden,
this is very difficult for me.
I know I wont be alone,
but its not the same.
Theres no urgency.
We dont even have a visa yet.
Yes, lets wait for the visa.
Yes, exactly., exactly...
Here, they say that
if the Chinese say 'no' once,
you don't get a
second chance because
they dont want to lose face.
If you need a detailed letter,
we can send one.
Let us wait and see.
When she comes
Ill take care of her.
I am always at home.
Yes, you are right.
Actually, I would prefer
for my mother to stay here.
I would look after her myself
until she dies.
It would be much easier for me.
Mola says it is very important
for her to go back to Tibet.
And if I dont
fulfill my mothers
wish, Ill have a bad
conscience, right?
Yes, that's her wish,
we have to respect that.
Mola said you should perform
a Mo to read the future.
I replied: What sort of Mo?
She said, To see
if there will be obstacles.
Then I said: Youre
going there to
die what obstacles
could there be?
We both had to laugh so hard.
You are right, you are right.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
My 100-year-old
mother-in-law would
like to return to her
homeland of Tibet.
As you know it is
difficult for Tibetans to be
approved for visas by
the Chinese government.
We would be grateful
if you could put in
a good word with your
Chinese counterpart
as this journey is
a final wish for her.
Many thanks in advance
and best regards,
Martin Brauen and
Sonam Dolma Brauen.
-What did she want to say?
-What did you say?
We dont show
Tibetans after they die.
Martin is asking what you said
about being 100 years old.
What?
He said to say it in Tibetan;
your German isnt clear.
When I speak Tibetan
he asks me to speak German.
When I speak German
he asks me to speak Tibetan.
What did she say?
Say it again in Tibetan.
You always film me
when Sonam cuts my hair.
Go there, come here,
go up, come down,
when I eat or when I cook
you film me.
Later when I die are you going
to show all this to everyone?
Say it nicely, Mola.
-Why is it not good to show?
-Why isnt it good?
What do you mean, nicely?
Why is it not good to show you?
If shown?
When you die, your consciousness
lingers and does
not come to rest.
This is difficult for
the consciousness.
My God, not that much.
Mola, thats too much!
Its okay, go ahead.
I offer this golden drink
to the Buddha,
the Buddhist teachings,
the Monastic community,
and all spiritual teachers,
the wrathful and
peaceful deities
and the countless
protective deities.
I offer this golden
drink to all living beings.
May the happiness be increased
like a waxing moon.
And may all our religious
wishes come true.
Oh, so many clothes.
Do you know what this is?
-Monk robes.
-Yes, monk robes.
They sent them from Lhasa.
Lama and monks who used to
live in Tibet sent those to me.
They sent me dirty
and used robes.
Those are very old robes.
And this one?
Oh thats a...
A dog with big eyes,
with a mouth and a nose.
Oh, lips.
How do you like this one?
Oh its colorful.
Did I layer the
monk robes nicely?
Yes you did.
-Looks nice, doesn't it?
-Yes.
All these shades
of yellow and red.
Most probably
no one will buy it.
Probably not,
Im not well known.
-Is it too hot?
-I cant tell.
Now I want to find out
if I can go to Tibet or not.
Will I be able to
return to Tibet or not?
Will I have the opportunity
to die in Tibet or not?
Not good.
Can I travel to Tibet or not?
Ah!
Not good.
Not good.
Ha, all three times
are not good.
You won't get it.
I won't get it.
You will have to stay here.
Switzerland is also a paradise.
Your Guru Dudjom
Rinpoche also said,
Switzerland is like a paradise.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I have contacted the
Chinese embassy about
your mother-in-laws
visa application.
The Chinese authorities require
the identities of the relatives
with whom your
mother-in-law will be
living; address,
phone number, etc...
You must also provide
a letter of invitation
from the relatives.
Yours sincerely,
Ambassador Mller.
You have been practicing
religion all your life.
Yes.
What is the essence
of your religion?
What is very important in
practicing religion
is awareness.
Once you master your
consciousness you will
understand the
teachings of the essence.
If you do not practice properly
in this life and you die,
then you miss a
unique opportunity.
Now you have a
chance to practice.
After death it is too late and
your consciousness fades away.
It is very difficult to attain
life as a human being
therefore one
should not waste it.
You should eat too.
You lost your mother
when you were five
and your father
when you were 13.
Mother, do you remember?
My father was very sick.
He knew he would die soon.
He said there were religious
dances in the monastery.
He asked me to take him there.
So I led him very slowly up
the stairs to the monastery.
At the top we sat together
and watched the dances.
Because when you
see these deities,
you are less afraid of death.
Afterwards I put my father
to bed and he fell asleep.
And that was it.
Martin asks what your
happiest time in your life was?
Ah yes, my happiest time was in
Tibet in the hermitage
with my guru.
Where we meditated and
received teachings from him.
There I retired to meditate and
received deep
teachings for my practice.
When I was in the hermitage,
I meditated on the virtues:
not to kill, not to lie, not to
say anything evil, and so on.
When I look back, that
was the best time of my life.
When we were rebuilding a temple
we were singing this song.
The monks came to help
and would sing with us.
I was young then, and the
men lost their hearts to me.
They all tried to
touch me and tease
me. Those were
pretty turbulent times.
Then what did you do?
I ran away.
What was the most
dangerous situation?
When they...
tried to grab me.
You ran away? Didn't
some catch you?
Yes but I fought back.
Without fighting back
I didn't stand a chance.
In Switzerland, this would be
reported to the police.
Yes...
And they would put them in jail.
In Tibet it was different,
wasn't it?
You couldn't tell anyone.
No, they would have
troubled me more.
There is a Tibetan saying:
Deer in the mountains
come down to the valley
to see who has the longest horn.
It will be difficult
for us without you.
Difficult?
-Were going to miss you.
-I see...
Wont you miss us?
Of course Ill miss you
but when I get over there
I will pray for you all.
Mola, do you remember
after the Dalai Lama
escaped to India
you said we have to leave too.
Yes.
I was very young
but I still remember
my little sister and our father
who were with us.
We had to cross icy rivers.
From Kongpo, we then
had to cross many passes.
At the border we were met
by Indian soldiers.
We arrived at the
refugee camp at night.
Every day at least two people
died and were carried away.
After about one week at the
refugee camp we all got sick.
My daughter got
so sick and died.
We crushed stones, lived in
the forest and wandered around.
We spent 12 years in India.
They were very difficult for us.
And because of the enormous
strains, father passed away.
From then on,
it was just the two of us.
Mola, do you remember
when we moved to Mussoorie
and got to know Martin there?
Yes, then we met Martin
and you got to know each other.
Then we came to Switzerland.
And then Yangzom
and Tashi were born.
I had no more worries;
Martin took them all away.
We were carefree.
We felt so happy.
I think,
the majority of Tibetan people
always think that
one day we will return.
Certainly, you see...
most of them...
certainly,
including myself.
You see, always thinking,
its our own country.
So those refugees, I think,
should think that way.
No boundary now.
After a few centuries I think
the world will be one community.
As it should be.
Oh, a 100 years old.
Thank you very much.
-You still look fit.
-Yes.
Thank you so much
for your great efforts.
Those are called Magpies.
Magpie.
Those are called Jay Birds.
Jay bird.
-Jay Bird.
-Jay Bird.
Magpie.
Magpie.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
it has been four months since
our initial request for a visa
for my mother-in-law
to travel to Tibet.
We have yet to hear anything
from the Chinese embassy.
Would it be possible for you to
speak to the Chinese ambassador
and inquire as to
the state of affairs?
Many thanks and best regards,
Martin Brauen.
Do you want to watch TV?
Yes.
Do you like to watch Tibetan TV?
Yes, Ladakh TV is good.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I contacted the
Chinese ambassador
again regarding
the visa application.
Their reply is that there
are unfortunate delays,
which Im sure
is disappointing.
Im keeping my
fingers crossed that
this situation can be resolved.
Dear Ambassador Mller,
we heard from the
Chinese embassy.
They require more information
about our relatives in Lhasa,
asking again for
our relationship,
their occupations,
ID cards, etc.
We will provide
everything requested,
and look forward to
a positive outcome.
Sincerely,
Martin Brauen.
How long did you live in India,
Mola?
Me?
About 11 to 12 years.
How long have you
been in Switzerland?
I don't know anymore.
I can't remember.
With your invitation
letter that you
sent me Ill go to the
Chinese embassy.
Then we wait.
If this doesnt work well look
for another solution, right?
Yes, yes...
Cheers.
Cheers.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I spoke to the Chinese
ambassador who said the
information you provided
is being considered.
I wish I had more to offer
but this is where things stand.
Ambassador Mller.
Ambassador Mller,
we appreciate your assistance,
and while
the lack of resolution
is discouraging
we remain hopeful
my mother-in-law
will be able to
make this journey
while she is still
able to travel.
With our kindest regards,
Martin Brauen.
How come he doesnt film me?
Because Im more beautiful,
thats why.
Must be.
So proud...
Well, then dont ask me.
Tell me something else.
I pray to the precious
lotus born master,
who is so kind to
the land of Tibet,
and tames the demons
in the south-west.
And I offer it to
the Three Jewels.
And now it goes to Molas mouth.
Whats going on?
Shes drinking tea and has tears
in her eyes. Look at this.
Look at those wrinkles!
And you dont have any wrinkles?
Well, how old are
you and how old am I?
You said you are 20 years old.
Whats that?
When we lived in India
you were very beautiful.
You were young
and your hair was tidy.
At the time you were
so beautiful, right Martin?
Mm-hmm.
See, he said yes.
Now Im not beautiful anymore?
Oh... her face is beautiful,
her eyes are perfect
with no wrinkles.
She looks beautiful Martin!
Say it to me,
not to Martin please.
You look so beautiful
with no wrinkles.
Look, so beautiful.
Oh wait, whats happening?
Hello!
You really look so
beautiful now. Wow.
Hello, whats nice about me?
Tell me.
Do you have something
nice to say about me?
-Of course I have.
-Well, then tell me.
It seems its hard for you to
say something nice about me.
Well, its how it is.
Apparently to you
Im not a good person.
If I wasnt here
would you be happy?
Yes.
When I ask you to praise me
you have nothing to say.
Anything good Ive
done you never mention.
What good have you done?
See, there is no good thing
you can say about me.
See, if theres nothing to say,
then what is there to say?
How sad is that? You dont have
one good thing to say about me.
Thats unbelievable mother.
So complicated.
Put some here. Its dry.
There, on your forehead.
Oh, how sweet you are...
with those wrinkles.
Close your mouth like that.
Ok, now what are we going to do?
Were done.
Were done, right?
Here we are, wait Mola.
-Shall I sit here?
-Yes.
-Will you fit?
-Yes.
Of course I fit, Im skinny.
Dream on.
Are you looking
forward to traveling there?
Yes.
Whats the situation
with the Chinese?
That's what Im wondering.
The Chinese won't do
anything to an old woman.
This is not for playing.
Stop it, Sonam Dolma!
She is doing this
on purpose to annoy me.
It is a sin
when you do this.
Its not a sin.
How can it be
a sin if I do this?
I told you not to do this
and then you
continue on purpose.
Okay Mola, I'll stop, Ill stop.
Why is it bad if I do this?
If you do it with
good intentions and
respect,
then it would be different.
But you try to irritate me
on purpose. That is not good.
Right, that's not good.
I'll stop.
I keep telling you to
recite the mani and
take refuge to Buddha
and his teachings.
That would be good for you,
so that
when you die you
will go to paradise.
Thus everything I do is a sin.
Now all is lost.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
our persistence has paid off.
After eleven months we have been
assured by the Chinese embassy
that the visa for my
mother-in-law will be
issued, and she will
be able to travel soon.
We are grateful for your
help and thank you sincerely.
Kind regards, Martin Brauen
and Sonam Dolma Brauen
I told the doctor
youre going to Tibet.
He said thats
not a problem.
All medication
is available there.
He will write down
everything for you.
You should drink less alcohol.
Do I drink too much?
One glass is probably too much.
Half a glass might be better.
She likes to drink wine.
Yeah, thats fine.
Does it fit?
I would be happy to see you.
I would be so glad.
We would be very
happy if you come.
I am just very old now.
I am very happy,
then I can live with you.
Bye, all the best to you.
Okay Mola,
all the best greetings to all.
Okay, thank you.
Now were done.
All our relatives will be very
happy when you return home.
Unfortunately, we won't be able
to travel to Tibet with you.
I know and leaving you all
behind makes me very sad.
But once you are there,
it will be easier.
Maybe after a while,
it's less difficult.
Still, I will miss you.
In Tibet,
everything can be done,
in the same way
as its done here.
Well send money
so they can build a
bathroom and kitchen
like they do here.
The Chinese have the same
standards as we
do in Switzerland.
And your cousin also knows
what I like to eat and what not.
Someone else would not know
what I like to eat.
In the sky a golden
airplane is flying.
An airplane made of gold.
In the golden airplane
the Dalai Lama is arriving.
His Holiness the
Dalai Lama is arriving.
In the turquoise car
students are arriving.
When the students
arrive in Tibet,
they chase the Chinese away.
When the Chinese
are chased away,
we then will return to Tibet.
Its very early Mola.
Now you are
ready. Dry your face.
And what is this?
Dont take it, its too big...
Dry your hands.
Have you packed all that?
Ive packed everything.
Don't worry about it.
Can I put this in your bag?
I have no space left.
Martin, what are you doing?
We are going to Nepal.
Until Nepal, Yangzom,
Tashi, Martin
and I,
will travel together with you.
But from Nepal you
have to go on alone.
Have a good trip.
We will see you again.
Live long and enjoy it.
Tsewang told me
that you should wear
dark clothing when
you travel to Tibet.
You have to wear this,
you cant wear yellow or red.
-Did you understand?
-Pull from the arm.
Won't they think it's fake?
You have to pretend.
This way the Chinese wont know
that you are a nun.
-Where are you going today?
-To Lhasa.
-You will go all by yourself.
-Yes.
Therefore be careful
with your things.
You have to wear this jacket.
You have to wear this for Lhasa.
-Because its cold in Lhasa.
-Oh Okay.
You have to wear
this when its cold.
Okay, yes.
Sister,
go to the hotel. Dont worry.
We'll be in touch as
soon as Mola lands.
Then we will send you photos.
Bye now.
Oh, sister
we are waiting at the airport.
So cute,
theyre at the airport waiting.
Its so sad.
Isnt it.
-She doesnt yet realize.
-I know...
We let her go.
Mola, your daughter
wants to talk to you.
Mola, did you arrive well?
Where am I now?
In Lhasa.
Did everything go
well on the plane?
It went very well.
It looks cozy.
Yes, it is very cozy.
Oh there you all are.
Hello.
Thank you for picking her up.
I'm very happy about that.
Sister, you don't have to worry.
We are looking after Mola.
Okay, thank you.
Tsewang have you seen the box
for setting up the medicines?
Yes, I saw it.
Today is Friday and she hasn't
taken her evening
medications yet.
Yes, I saw it.
Okay, thats good.
You couldn't sleep well?
Yes, I woke up
suddenly and felt very hot.
Then I started thinking again.
Like I said, you have to decide.
Dear Mr. Ambassador.
After six months in Tibet, the
Chinese authorities
have declined
to renew my
mother-in-laws visa.
Of course, this means we will be
arranging her
return to Switzerland.
My wife will fly to Nepal
to travel with her from there.
We would like to
take this opportunity
to give sincere
thanks for all your help.
Yours sincerely
and respectfully,
Martin Brauen and
Sonam Dolma Brauen.
Hello.
Mola, do you want to come home?
Yes, I will come home.
Didn't you want to stay in
Lhasa, in the land of paradise?
I will be reborn
there regardless.
Do you remember Bern?
Bern is in Switzerland,
isn't it?
What floor do you live on?
Floor?
I don't know anymore.
Do you remember
having to climb the stairs?
Stairs?
The second floor, I think.
You little devil you.
Yes, yes...
that's me.
And this grandmother
is a rascal.
Yes, I am quite a wild girl.
With a hard head.
Yes, my head is pretty hard.
What's your
husband's name again?
Theyll bring some tea, Mola.
Put your head there.
-My neck.
-Your neck is hurting.
Wait, Ill help you.
Is it better now?
Her neck hurts.
Maybe she has a stiff neck.
Two things that
stand out to me; She
has become thinner
and more sensitive.
We have been on
the road for two days.
She flew from Lhasa
to Nepal by herself.
She's a 100-year-old woman,
its too much for her.
Mola is back again.
You're back in Switzerland.
Youre old, use the stick.
Mola, she says its yours.
-Ah, she says its mine.
-Yes.
Do you want it?
Cold.
Its cold.
Finality is the one phenomenon
all conditioned beings share.
Mountains,
forests and creatures
are all equal in their finality.
With each and every breath
all creatures race
towards inevitable death.
This certainty should
not darken your spirit
but help overcome obstacles.
Incomparable Lama,
to you I pray.
In this life, in the next and in
the intermediate
state after death.
Hold me with your compassion,
grant
me your blessings unceasingly.
My body, my possessions
and all my virtuous qualities.
All this,
I offer unreservedly to
all beings who have
been my mother.
May I be of great
use for all beings!
There is an elderly home nearby.
And yesterday we
got a phone call.
And a room has become available.
And they asked me
if we want to take it.
The house is very close to us.
In the daytime we come to your
house, have tea and be together.
At night, it has a night watch.
At night I have big problems.
When I have to get up,
I can't sleep anymore.
Thats why its better there. Do
you have any problems with that?
Its not easy when
I think of it that way.
Do you trust us,
that we try our best?
Yes.
Yes, of course I believe you.
Are you sad then?
I think not.
If I don't like it or I get sad
I can come home again, right?
Yes, then you say, I don't
want to stay bring me back.
It is very good
that you trust us.
You trust us right?
Oh hello.
Have a great day.
Mola... look at me.
Can you look at me?
Can you quickly stand up
so I can adjust your dress?
Help me a little bit.
My shinbone hurts.
It hurts?
It feels weird.
Mola,
where do you think you are?
-I dont know.
-You dont know?
Does it feel you are at home?
It feels like home
because you are here.
Thats true. Doesnt
matter where.
It doesnt matter.
You both are here...
and doing all the work,
so it feels like home.
You dont feel sad staying here?
As long as Im with the
both of you I dont feel sad.
Thanks for letting me know the
box arrived. I
feel very relieved.
Yes sister,
I knew you were worried.
Mola reached Tibet
with great difficulty,
and you had also
a very hard time.
If the ashes hadnt arrived,
it would have
been tragic,
so I kept two spoons full.
Well take her ashes
to Nepal and make tsa tsa...
and have the
traditional ceremony
performed. This is
what I have in mind.
I'll take a short break.
We are looking forward
to your birthday party.
See you soon, all the best.
Look how beautiful.
Come, sit here.
When I pray,
I include all living beings
and do it for their
benefits too...
so that they may enter paradise.
Every time I recite the Om Mani
Peme Hung, I think of this.
I don't think I have
that long to live.
Maybe I will live
three more years?
I don't think I'll live longer.
Who knows, right?
That's soon.
Who knows, suddenly you're dead.
Are you homesick for Tibet?
-Yes...
-You think of Tibet every day?
No, not every day, but I
would like to die in Tibet.
I dont think about
it all the time.
Why do you want to go?
Now that I am old
I would like to die in the
religious paradise in Tibet.
And you are not afraid to die?
-Im not afraid.
-Good.
I see... so this is...
So this is your last wish,
isn't it?
Yes.
Whats wrong,
your eyes are full of tears.
So what, I am sad.
What happened?
Why should you be sad?
If you leave,
of course I will be sad.
-You don't have to be sad.
-Why not?
You should think:
She's old and it's
wonderful that
she can die there.
Of course I think that,
but still I am very sad.
-We lived together for 64 years.
-Yes...
And so...
if you just leave
all of a sudden,
this is very difficult for me.
I know I wont be alone,
but its not the same.
Theres no urgency.
We dont even have a visa yet.
Yes, lets wait for the visa.
Yes, exactly., exactly...
Here, they say that
if the Chinese say 'no' once,
you don't get a
second chance because
they dont want to lose face.
If you need a detailed letter,
we can send one.
Let us wait and see.
When she comes
Ill take care of her.
I am always at home.
Yes, you are right.
Actually, I would prefer
for my mother to stay here.
I would look after her myself
until she dies.
It would be much easier for me.
Mola says it is very important
for her to go back to Tibet.
And if I dont
fulfill my mothers
wish, Ill have a bad
conscience, right?
Yes, that's her wish,
we have to respect that.
Mola said you should perform
a Mo to read the future.
I replied: What sort of Mo?
She said, To see
if there will be obstacles.
Then I said: Youre
going there to
die what obstacles
could there be?
We both had to laugh so hard.
You are right, you are right.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
My 100-year-old
mother-in-law would
like to return to her
homeland of Tibet.
As you know it is
difficult for Tibetans to be
approved for visas by
the Chinese government.
We would be grateful
if you could put in
a good word with your
Chinese counterpart
as this journey is
a final wish for her.
Many thanks in advance
and best regards,
Martin Brauen and
Sonam Dolma Brauen.
-What did she want to say?
-What did you say?
We dont show
Tibetans after they die.
Martin is asking what you said
about being 100 years old.
What?
He said to say it in Tibetan;
your German isnt clear.
When I speak Tibetan
he asks me to speak German.
When I speak German
he asks me to speak Tibetan.
What did she say?
Say it again in Tibetan.
You always film me
when Sonam cuts my hair.
Go there, come here,
go up, come down,
when I eat or when I cook
you film me.
Later when I die are you going
to show all this to everyone?
Say it nicely, Mola.
-Why is it not good to show?
-Why isnt it good?
What do you mean, nicely?
Why is it not good to show you?
If shown?
When you die, your consciousness
lingers and does
not come to rest.
This is difficult for
the consciousness.
My God, not that much.
Mola, thats too much!
Its okay, go ahead.
I offer this golden drink
to the Buddha,
the Buddhist teachings,
the Monastic community,
and all spiritual teachers,
the wrathful and
peaceful deities
and the countless
protective deities.
I offer this golden
drink to all living beings.
May the happiness be increased
like a waxing moon.
And may all our religious
wishes come true.
Oh, so many clothes.
Do you know what this is?
-Monk robes.
-Yes, monk robes.
They sent them from Lhasa.
Lama and monks who used to
live in Tibet sent those to me.
They sent me dirty
and used robes.
Those are very old robes.
And this one?
Oh thats a...
A dog with big eyes,
with a mouth and a nose.
Oh, lips.
How do you like this one?
Oh its colorful.
Did I layer the
monk robes nicely?
Yes you did.
-Looks nice, doesn't it?
-Yes.
All these shades
of yellow and red.
Most probably
no one will buy it.
Probably not,
Im not well known.
-Is it too hot?
-I cant tell.
Now I want to find out
if I can go to Tibet or not.
Will I be able to
return to Tibet or not?
Will I have the opportunity
to die in Tibet or not?
Not good.
Can I travel to Tibet or not?
Ah!
Not good.
Not good.
Ha, all three times
are not good.
You won't get it.
I won't get it.
You will have to stay here.
Switzerland is also a paradise.
Your Guru Dudjom
Rinpoche also said,
Switzerland is like a paradise.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I have contacted the
Chinese embassy about
your mother-in-laws
visa application.
The Chinese authorities require
the identities of the relatives
with whom your
mother-in-law will be
living; address,
phone number, etc...
You must also provide
a letter of invitation
from the relatives.
Yours sincerely,
Ambassador Mller.
You have been practicing
religion all your life.
Yes.
What is the essence
of your religion?
What is very important in
practicing religion
is awareness.
Once you master your
consciousness you will
understand the
teachings of the essence.
If you do not practice properly
in this life and you die,
then you miss a
unique opportunity.
Now you have a
chance to practice.
After death it is too late and
your consciousness fades away.
It is very difficult to attain
life as a human being
therefore one
should not waste it.
You should eat too.
You lost your mother
when you were five
and your father
when you were 13.
Mother, do you remember?
My father was very sick.
He knew he would die soon.
He said there were religious
dances in the monastery.
He asked me to take him there.
So I led him very slowly up
the stairs to the monastery.
At the top we sat together
and watched the dances.
Because when you
see these deities,
you are less afraid of death.
Afterwards I put my father
to bed and he fell asleep.
And that was it.
Martin asks what your
happiest time in your life was?
Ah yes, my happiest time was in
Tibet in the hermitage
with my guru.
Where we meditated and
received teachings from him.
There I retired to meditate and
received deep
teachings for my practice.
When I was in the hermitage,
I meditated on the virtues:
not to kill, not to lie, not to
say anything evil, and so on.
When I look back, that
was the best time of my life.
When we were rebuilding a temple
we were singing this song.
The monks came to help
and would sing with us.
I was young then, and the
men lost their hearts to me.
They all tried to
touch me and tease
me. Those were
pretty turbulent times.
Then what did you do?
I ran away.
What was the most
dangerous situation?
When they...
tried to grab me.
You ran away? Didn't
some catch you?
Yes but I fought back.
Without fighting back
I didn't stand a chance.
In Switzerland, this would be
reported to the police.
Yes...
And they would put them in jail.
In Tibet it was different,
wasn't it?
You couldn't tell anyone.
No, they would have
troubled me more.
There is a Tibetan saying:
Deer in the mountains
come down to the valley
to see who has the longest horn.
It will be difficult
for us without you.
Difficult?
-Were going to miss you.
-I see...
Wont you miss us?
Of course Ill miss you
but when I get over there
I will pray for you all.
Mola, do you remember
after the Dalai Lama
escaped to India
you said we have to leave too.
Yes.
I was very young
but I still remember
my little sister and our father
who were with us.
We had to cross icy rivers.
From Kongpo, we then
had to cross many passes.
At the border we were met
by Indian soldiers.
We arrived at the
refugee camp at night.
Every day at least two people
died and were carried away.
After about one week at the
refugee camp we all got sick.
My daughter got
so sick and died.
We crushed stones, lived in
the forest and wandered around.
We spent 12 years in India.
They were very difficult for us.
And because of the enormous
strains, father passed away.
From then on,
it was just the two of us.
Mola, do you remember
when we moved to Mussoorie
and got to know Martin there?
Yes, then we met Martin
and you got to know each other.
Then we came to Switzerland.
And then Yangzom
and Tashi were born.
I had no more worries;
Martin took them all away.
We were carefree.
We felt so happy.
I think,
the majority of Tibetan people
always think that
one day we will return.
Certainly, you see...
most of them...
certainly,
including myself.
You see, always thinking,
its our own country.
So those refugees, I think,
should think that way.
No boundary now.
After a few centuries I think
the world will be one community.
As it should be.
Oh, a 100 years old.
Thank you very much.
-You still look fit.
-Yes.
Thank you so much
for your great efforts.
Those are called Magpies.
Magpie.
Those are called Jay Birds.
Jay bird.
-Jay Bird.
-Jay Bird.
Magpie.
Magpie.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
it has been four months since
our initial request for a visa
for my mother-in-law
to travel to Tibet.
We have yet to hear anything
from the Chinese embassy.
Would it be possible for you to
speak to the Chinese ambassador
and inquire as to
the state of affairs?
Many thanks and best regards,
Martin Brauen.
Do you want to watch TV?
Yes.
Do you like to watch Tibetan TV?
Yes, Ladakh TV is good.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I contacted the
Chinese ambassador
again regarding
the visa application.
Their reply is that there
are unfortunate delays,
which Im sure
is disappointing.
Im keeping my
fingers crossed that
this situation can be resolved.
Dear Ambassador Mller,
we heard from the
Chinese embassy.
They require more information
about our relatives in Lhasa,
asking again for
our relationship,
their occupations,
ID cards, etc.
We will provide
everything requested,
and look forward to
a positive outcome.
Sincerely,
Martin Brauen.
How long did you live in India,
Mola?
Me?
About 11 to 12 years.
How long have you
been in Switzerland?
I don't know anymore.
I can't remember.
With your invitation
letter that you
sent me Ill go to the
Chinese embassy.
Then we wait.
If this doesnt work well look
for another solution, right?
Yes, yes...
Cheers.
Cheers.
Dear Mr. Brauen,
I spoke to the Chinese
ambassador who said the
information you provided
is being considered.
I wish I had more to offer
but this is where things stand.
Ambassador Mller.
Ambassador Mller,
we appreciate your assistance,
and while
the lack of resolution
is discouraging
we remain hopeful
my mother-in-law
will be able to
make this journey
while she is still
able to travel.
With our kindest regards,
Martin Brauen.
How come he doesnt film me?
Because Im more beautiful,
thats why.
Must be.
So proud...
Well, then dont ask me.
Tell me something else.
I pray to the precious
lotus born master,
who is so kind to
the land of Tibet,
and tames the demons
in the south-west.
And I offer it to
the Three Jewels.
And now it goes to Molas mouth.
Whats going on?
Shes drinking tea and has tears
in her eyes. Look at this.
Look at those wrinkles!
And you dont have any wrinkles?
Well, how old are
you and how old am I?
You said you are 20 years old.
Whats that?
When we lived in India
you were very beautiful.
You were young
and your hair was tidy.
At the time you were
so beautiful, right Martin?
Mm-hmm.
See, he said yes.
Now Im not beautiful anymore?
Oh... her face is beautiful,
her eyes are perfect
with no wrinkles.
She looks beautiful Martin!
Say it to me,
not to Martin please.
You look so beautiful
with no wrinkles.
Look, so beautiful.
Oh wait, whats happening?
Hello!
You really look so
beautiful now. Wow.
Hello, whats nice about me?
Tell me.
Do you have something
nice to say about me?
-Of course I have.
-Well, then tell me.
It seems its hard for you to
say something nice about me.
Well, its how it is.
Apparently to you
Im not a good person.
If I wasnt here
would you be happy?
Yes.
When I ask you to praise me
you have nothing to say.
Anything good Ive
done you never mention.
What good have you done?
See, there is no good thing
you can say about me.
See, if theres nothing to say,
then what is there to say?
How sad is that? You dont have
one good thing to say about me.
Thats unbelievable mother.
So complicated.
Put some here. Its dry.
There, on your forehead.
Oh, how sweet you are...
with those wrinkles.
Close your mouth like that.
Ok, now what are we going to do?
Were done.
Were done, right?
Here we are, wait Mola.
-Shall I sit here?
-Yes.
-Will you fit?
-Yes.
Of course I fit, Im skinny.
Dream on.
Are you looking
forward to traveling there?
Yes.
Whats the situation
with the Chinese?
That's what Im wondering.
The Chinese won't do
anything to an old woman.
This is not for playing.
Stop it, Sonam Dolma!
She is doing this
on purpose to annoy me.
It is a sin
when you do this.
Its not a sin.
How can it be
a sin if I do this?
I told you not to do this
and then you
continue on purpose.
Okay Mola, I'll stop, Ill stop.
Why is it bad if I do this?
If you do it with
good intentions and
respect,
then it would be different.
But you try to irritate me
on purpose. That is not good.
Right, that's not good.
I'll stop.
I keep telling you to
recite the mani and
take refuge to Buddha
and his teachings.
That would be good for you,
so that
when you die you
will go to paradise.
Thus everything I do is a sin.
Now all is lost.
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
our persistence has paid off.
After eleven months we have been
assured by the Chinese embassy
that the visa for my
mother-in-law will be
issued, and she will
be able to travel soon.
We are grateful for your
help and thank you sincerely.
Kind regards, Martin Brauen
and Sonam Dolma Brauen
I told the doctor
youre going to Tibet.
He said thats
not a problem.
All medication
is available there.
He will write down
everything for you.
You should drink less alcohol.
Do I drink too much?
One glass is probably too much.
Half a glass might be better.
She likes to drink wine.
Yeah, thats fine.
Does it fit?
I would be happy to see you.
I would be so glad.
We would be very
happy if you come.
I am just very old now.
I am very happy,
then I can live with you.
Bye, all the best to you.
Okay Mola,
all the best greetings to all.
Okay, thank you.
Now were done.
All our relatives will be very
happy when you return home.
Unfortunately, we won't be able
to travel to Tibet with you.
I know and leaving you all
behind makes me very sad.
But once you are there,
it will be easier.
Maybe after a while,
it's less difficult.
Still, I will miss you.
In Tibet,
everything can be done,
in the same way
as its done here.
Well send money
so they can build a
bathroom and kitchen
like they do here.
The Chinese have the same
standards as we
do in Switzerland.
And your cousin also knows
what I like to eat and what not.
Someone else would not know
what I like to eat.
In the sky a golden
airplane is flying.
An airplane made of gold.
In the golden airplane
the Dalai Lama is arriving.
His Holiness the
Dalai Lama is arriving.
In the turquoise car
students are arriving.
When the students
arrive in Tibet,
they chase the Chinese away.
When the Chinese
are chased away,
we then will return to Tibet.
Its very early Mola.
Now you are
ready. Dry your face.
And what is this?
Dont take it, its too big...
Dry your hands.
Have you packed all that?
Ive packed everything.
Don't worry about it.
Can I put this in your bag?
I have no space left.
Martin, what are you doing?
We are going to Nepal.
Until Nepal, Yangzom,
Tashi, Martin
and I,
will travel together with you.
But from Nepal you
have to go on alone.
Have a good trip.
We will see you again.
Live long and enjoy it.
Tsewang told me
that you should wear
dark clothing when
you travel to Tibet.
You have to wear this,
you cant wear yellow or red.
-Did you understand?
-Pull from the arm.
Won't they think it's fake?
You have to pretend.
This way the Chinese wont know
that you are a nun.
-Where are you going today?
-To Lhasa.
-You will go all by yourself.
-Yes.
Therefore be careful
with your things.
You have to wear this jacket.
You have to wear this for Lhasa.
-Because its cold in Lhasa.
-Oh Okay.
You have to wear
this when its cold.
Okay, yes.
Sister,
go to the hotel. Dont worry.
We'll be in touch as
soon as Mola lands.
Then we will send you photos.
Bye now.
Oh, sister
we are waiting at the airport.
So cute,
theyre at the airport waiting.
Its so sad.
Isnt it.
-She doesnt yet realize.
-I know...
We let her go.
Mola, your daughter
wants to talk to you.
Mola, did you arrive well?
Where am I now?
In Lhasa.
Did everything go
well on the plane?
It went very well.
It looks cozy.
Yes, it is very cozy.
Oh there you all are.
Hello.
Thank you for picking her up.
I'm very happy about that.
Sister, you don't have to worry.
We are looking after Mola.
Okay, thank you.
Tsewang have you seen the box
for setting up the medicines?
Yes, I saw it.
Today is Friday and she hasn't
taken her evening
medications yet.
Yes, I saw it.
Okay, thats good.
You couldn't sleep well?
Yes, I woke up
suddenly and felt very hot.
Then I started thinking again.
Like I said, you have to decide.
Dear Mr. Ambassador.
After six months in Tibet, the
Chinese authorities
have declined
to renew my
mother-in-laws visa.
Of course, this means we will be
arranging her
return to Switzerland.
My wife will fly to Nepal
to travel with her from there.
We would like to
take this opportunity
to give sincere
thanks for all your help.
Yours sincerely
and respectfully,
Martin Brauen and
Sonam Dolma Brauen.
Hello.
Mola, do you want to come home?
Yes, I will come home.
Didn't you want to stay in
Lhasa, in the land of paradise?
I will be reborn
there regardless.
Do you remember Bern?
Bern is in Switzerland,
isn't it?
What floor do you live on?
Floor?
I don't know anymore.
Do you remember
having to climb the stairs?
Stairs?
The second floor, I think.
You little devil you.
Yes, yes...
that's me.
And this grandmother
is a rascal.
Yes, I am quite a wild girl.
With a hard head.
Yes, my head is pretty hard.
What's your
husband's name again?
Theyll bring some tea, Mola.
Put your head there.
-My neck.
-Your neck is hurting.
Wait, Ill help you.
Is it better now?
Her neck hurts.
Maybe she has a stiff neck.
Two things that
stand out to me; She
has become thinner
and more sensitive.
We have been on
the road for two days.
She flew from Lhasa
to Nepal by herself.
She's a 100-year-old woman,
its too much for her.
Mola is back again.
You're back in Switzerland.
Youre old, use the stick.
Mola, she says its yours.
-Ah, she says its mine.
-Yes.
Do you want it?
Cold.
Its cold.
Finality is the one phenomenon
all conditioned beings share.
Mountains,
forests and creatures
are all equal in their finality.
With each and every breath
all creatures race
towards inevitable death.
This certainty should
not darken your spirit
but help overcome obstacles.
Incomparable Lama,
to you I pray.
In this life, in the next and in
the intermediate
state after death.
Hold me with your compassion,
grant
me your blessings unceasingly.
My body, my possessions
and all my virtuous qualities.
All this,
I offer unreservedly to
all beings who have
been my mother.
May I be of great
use for all beings!
There is an elderly home nearby.
And yesterday we
got a phone call.
And a room has become available.
And they asked me
if we want to take it.
The house is very close to us.
In the daytime we come to your
house, have tea and be together.
At night, it has a night watch.
At night I have big problems.
When I have to get up,
I can't sleep anymore.
Thats why its better there. Do
you have any problems with that?
Its not easy when
I think of it that way.
Do you trust us,
that we try our best?
Yes.
Yes, of course I believe you.
Are you sad then?
I think not.
If I don't like it or I get sad
I can come home again, right?
Yes, then you say, I don't
want to stay bring me back.
It is very good
that you trust us.
You trust us right?
Oh hello.
Have a great day.
Mola... look at me.
Can you look at me?
Can you quickly stand up
so I can adjust your dress?
Help me a little bit.
My shinbone hurts.
It hurts?
It feels weird.
Mola,
where do you think you are?
-I dont know.
-You dont know?
Does it feel you are at home?
It feels like home
because you are here.
Thats true. Doesnt
matter where.
It doesnt matter.
You both are here...
and doing all the work,
so it feels like home.
You dont feel sad staying here?
As long as Im with the
both of you I dont feel sad.
Thanks for letting me know the
box arrived. I
feel very relieved.
Yes sister,
I knew you were worried.
Mola reached Tibet
with great difficulty,
and you had also
a very hard time.
If the ashes hadnt arrived,
it would have
been tragic,
so I kept two spoons full.
Well take her ashes
to Nepal and make tsa tsa...
and have the
traditional ceremony
performed. This is
what I have in mind.