What Life-Changing Lesson Did Shekhar Kapur Learn from a Monk?
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Synopsis
Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur shares a profound experience from his trek in the Himalayas, where a conversation with a monk on Buddha Purnima transformed his perspective on love and enlightenment. Discover how this encounter ignited his journey of self-discovery and awareness.
Key Takeaways
- Mindfulness is crucial for self-discovery.
- Love should be expressed outwardly to avoid negative emotions.
- Encounters can lead to profound insights.
- Nature can serve as a backdrop for personal growth.
- Reflection on simple questions can yield deep answers.
Mumbai, May 12 (NationPress) Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, recently awarded the Padma Bhushan, has recounted a transformative experience in honor of Buddha Purnima.
In a post on social media, Kapur reflected on an encounter with a monk during his solitary trek in the Himalayas. This single conversation significantly altered the course of his life and marked the beginning of his personal journey.
He shared, “Today is Buddh Jayanti. In Sanskrit, Budh signifies ‘the enlightened one’ or ‘the one that is aware’. While trekking alone, I stumbled upon a monk meditating in his cave. Despite the freezing temperature, he wore minimal clothing and maintained an aura of serenity. I hesitated but finally asked, ‘Aren’t you feeling cold?’”
Kapur continued, “I had numerous profound questions swirling in my mind, regretting my seemingly trivial inquiry. The monk chuckled, ‘I was not aware of the cold’. Upon reflection, he admitted, ‘Yes, it is cold’ and closed his eyes again with a gentle smile, reminiscent of a parent anticipating their child’s next question. I then dared to ask, ‘Are you enlightened?’ His piercing gaze seemed to shift in color, and I lost track of time.”
“Suddenly, I realized the sun had set and stars were twinkling above me. I pondered, ‘Shekhar, are you not feeling the cold? How long have I been here under his gaze? ‘Are YOU enlightened?’ the monk queried, catching me off guard. My response was stammered: ‘I don’t even know what that means.’ He advised, ‘Return to where you started. Open your heart to love. When you see love everywhere, you’ll recognize it stems from within. Let your love radiate outward. When it turns inward, pain, desire, and selfishness take over. Let it flow outward.’ As he closed his eyes once more, I became acutely aware of the cold and the night that had enveloped me. I wondered how I would navigate my way back. This marked the commencement of my journey,” he concluded.
Point of View
I find Shekhar Kapur's story exceptionally compelling. It illustrates the transformative power of simple yet profound interactions. This narrative not only highlights the importance of mindfulness but also showcases how moments of connection can lead to significant personal growth.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Buddha Purnima?
Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddh Jayanti, celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.
Who is Shekhar Kapur?
Shekhar Kapur is an acclaimed Indian filmmaker known for his works in Bollywood and Hollywood, recently honored with the Padma Bhushan.
What did Shekhar Kapur learn from the monk?
He learned about the importance of love, self-awareness, and the need to let love flow outward rather than inward.
