Vajra is a Sanskrit word meaning the thunderbolt of awakening. Vajrayana is the form of Buddhism practiced in Tibet. The film is a cinematic pilgrimage bearing witness to the indomitable faith of Tibet’s Buddhist community and the ultimate threat to its very survival. One of the rare documentaries to be filmed entirely inside Tibet, it has received the blessing and endorsement of the Dalai Lama. This feature-length documentary offers a direct experience of some of the most revered temples, monasteries and festivals still surviving in Tibet today. Filming only in natural light, director and cinematographer John Bush travelled inconspicuously as part of a two-person crew along with a Tibetan guide and driver, shooting without permissions. As a western Buddhist filmmaker he was allowed unprecedented access to holy places. Many doors opened to him and his camera...

Screenplay John Bush
Editing Donal O’Ceilleachair
Music David Hykes
Cast John Bush, Tenzin Chogyal, Dadon
Production John Bush
Year of production 2006
Running time 89’
Format DigiBeta

John Bush

John Bush is a photographer and filmmaker who has lived and travelled in Asia for more than three decades, sharing its sacred sites, culture and images in his work. As a filmmaker who’s practicing Tibetan Buddhism for 35 years, 2001 he started shooting The Yatra Trilogy with the purpose to explore the endangered Buddhist culture in Asia. Vajra Sky Over Tibet is the third segment of the trilogy. He founded Direct Pictures in 2002. His prior two documentary features, Dharma River and Prajna Earth, are screening at various global venues. He was the long time CEO and creative force of the award winning design company Illuminations. He founded Illumination Foundation in 2005 and is its Director.