Exploring Tibetan History Through Film: 4 Rivers 6 Ranges

Have you ever considered watching a film centered on the Dalai Lama that isn't merely a spiritual narrative but rather a historical action film? If this intrigues you, then Shenpenn Khymsar’s 4 Rivers 6 Ranges: Chushi Gangdruk might just be the unexpected cinematic experience you’re looking for.

The narrative revolves around the Chushi Gangdruk, a collective of everyday Tibetan individuals—farmers, traders, and monks—who took up arms to defend their homeland, faith, and the 14th Dalai Lama. Their mission included guiding the young Dalai Lama through perilous mountain paths to safety in India during 1959.

From Refuge to Responsibility

The visionary behind this film, Khymsar, experienced a childhood filled with political upheaval and family challenges, particularly due to the Gorkhaland movement that stirred unrest in Darjeeling. The local cinema became his sanctuary. “I would often escape to the only cinema in my town—Plaza. It was my refuge from the chaos surrounding me,” he recalls. After relocating to the US as a teenager, he spent his twenties in New York and later Los Angeles before returning to India.

His enduring passion for cinema ultimately led him to filmmaking. Self-taught, Khymsar views cinema as a powerful medium to address historical narratives. “We have yet to share the stories of resistance,” he states. “Numerous books and PhD theses exist, but no one has created a film.”

He believes the Chushi Gangdruk warriors deserve recognition. “It would be unjust not to honor those who facilitated his escape,” he asserts. “I returned to India to reconnect with my roots and contribute to the Tibetan cause through art and creativity.”

A Himalayan Filming Adventure

Creating this film was an extraordinary challenge. Filmed in Nepal at elevations between 15,000 and 16,000 feet, it featured many first-time actors, a limited budget, and security concerns, all while being produced with a crew of around 300. “We completed the entire film in just 19 days,” Khymsar shares. While time was a significant hurdle, the weather posed another challenge. On a critical shooting day, heavy rain threatened to halt production. Nevertheless, Khymsar pressed on, driving through the downpour with his cinematographer, and miraculously, the rain ceased as soon as he exited the vehicle. “Many such stories occurred during filming. It felt as though the spirits of those warriors were guiding us!”

As the director, producer, composer, and action director—roles he took on out of necessity—he taught each cast member to ride horses, as he filmed nearly the entire project from horseback.

Historical Relevance in Modern Times

Khymsar draws parallels between the Tibetan resistance and the establishment of India’s Special Frontier Force, believing the film holds significance in today’s geopolitical landscape. “Tibet’s freedom is integral to India’s security,” he emphasizes. While Khymsar is candid about his views on China, he regards filmmaking as his chosen form of resistance. “I won’t resort to violence; no Tibetan would,” he explains. “But that doesn’t imply we are cowards. This is my method of fighting. My art and creativity serve as my weapons.”

Support from Notable Figures

Initially filmed in English, Khymsar assures that the Hindi version maintains the emotional depth of the performances. Richard Gere, a long-time advocate for the Tibetan cause, attended a special screening of the film. “He appreciated it and expressed his support,” Khymsar notes, adding that he also had the privilege of showing a scene to the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala. “He was very pleased and smiled, saying, ‘Thank you,’” Khymsar recalls.

Khymsar regards 4 Rivers 6 Ranges as his heartfelt tribute to the warriors and to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The film is set to be released in theaters on September 11.