How has Buddhism, originating in India, supported people in modernized Asian countries over 2500 years? Asian countries are developing dynamically through mutual exchange. While at first glance they may appear as "Asian chaos," the "teachings of Buddha," cultivated by rich natural environments and views of nature, breathe beneath the surface. Buddhism, born in India, has flexibly intertwined with the customs and beliefs of each era and land, leaving behind an immense number of scriptures and Buddhist statues, shaping a vast cultural sphere that continues to flow into Japan. Buddha means "awakened person." This is a contemplative journey that explores the broad and diverse paths the Buddha's teachings have taken, and the lives and cultures of Asian people that resonate with Japanese people. Narration: Tatsuya Nakadai Music: Sachiyo Nakamura Theme Music Arrangement: Masatsugu Shinozaki Narrator: Aiko Michifuji

[Contents]
1. India: The Cycle of Rebirth ~2500 Years of Buddhism's Rise and Fall~
In ancient India, it was believed that humans eternally repeat the cycle of life and death, known as "reincarnation." This prologue depicts the turbulent 80-year life of Buddha and the 2500-year history of Buddhism's rise and fall in India, following Buddha's footsteps.

2. Golden Pagodas ~Myanmar: Days of Festivals and Funerals~
Myanmar is a traditional Buddhist country where over 90% of the population are Buddhists, and also a multi-ethnic state where 135 different ethnic groups coexist. Buddhism integrates each ethnic group with its own spirit beliefs, and its symbol is the pagoda (Buddhist stupa) that shines with gold and jewels. We see Buddha's footsteps in a Myanmar village where poverty and bliss coexist around the pagodas.

3. The Birth and Flow of Buddhist Statues ~Gandhara, Bamiyan~
For approximately 500 years after Buddha's death, no Buddhist statues were created. However, around the 1st century AD, Buddhist statues suddenly appeared in Gandhara. Gandhara at that time was plagued by war, and people seeking salvation were filled with a desire to see Buddha again and hear his words. This episode explores the mystery of Buddhism's birth, incorporating footage of the Great Buddha of Bamiyan.

4. In a Thai Monastery ~Buddhism Alive~
Buddhism is the state religion of Thailand. It is said that 95% of the population are Buddhists, and 1 in 60 adult men become monks. Men cannot gain social credibility unless they become ordained and undergo training at least once in their lives. This episode introduces the role Buddhism plays in a changing Thai society, including female practitioners called "Mae Chi" and temples that accept terminally ill AIDS patients.

5. The Land of Avalokitesvara in the East ~Transforming Buddhas~
In China, where Confucianism exists, the teachings of Buddha were accepted through the scripture "Ullambana Sutra," which preaches filial piety. In Taiwan, faith is concentrated on "Kannon Bodhisattva," who is believed to save people from suffering and grant wishes. Meanwhile, the number of women entering the Buddhist order is increasing year by year in Taiwan. This episode examines the unique transformations of Buddhism in China and Taiwan through the lives of their people.

*Broadcast in 1998 *Total recording time: 241 minutes

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