Meeting the Buddha
Meeting the Buddha presents the life and legacy of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje—the head of the Karma Kagyu lineage, one of four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The film captures the remarkable presence of this spiritual teacher, known as a Living Buddha and the King of the Yogis. We meet Ole Nydahl, a wild young hippy from Denmark who, as a small child, had declared his wish to become the "Danish champion of mind." His life is radically transformed by a chance encounter with the Karmapa in Nepal in 1969. Ole and his wife, Hannah, become key figures in bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the West, founding hundreds of meditation centres—from Mexico City to Vladivostok—and carrying forward their teacher's vision with unshakable dedication.
Trailer
Release rollout
Meeting the Buddha opened first in Hungary on June 25, 2026. The rollout continued across 3 countries, finishing in Germany on October 8, 2026.
Release dates by country
Release date history
Frequently asked questions
When does Meeting the Buddha come out?
Meeting the Buddha was released on June 25, 2026.
When does Meeting the Buddha come out in Germany?
Meeting the Buddha was released in Germany on October 8, 2026.
Who directed Meeting the Buddha?
Meeting the Buddha was directed by Marta György-Kessler.
How long is Meeting the Buddha?
Meeting the Buddha has a runtime of 2h 24m.
