A provocative social experiment-turned-documentary, KUMARE follows American filmmaker Vikram Gandhi as he transforms himself into a wise Indian guru, hoping to prove the absurdity of blind faith. Instead, he finds himself forging profound connections with people from all walks of life -- and wondering if and when to reveal his true self. Will his followers accept his final teaching? Can this illusion reveal a greater spiritual truth? Winner of South by Southwest's Audience Award, KUMARE is an insightful look at faith and belief.
Release Year: 2011 Running Time: 84 Color Type: Color Country: U.S. Language: English
Kumaré is an enlightened guru from the East who builds a following of disciples in the West. But Kumaré is not real. He is an American filmmaker named Vikram Gandhi, who has transformed himself into Kumaré as the centerpiece of a social experiment designed to explore and test one of the world's most sacred taboos.
Concealing his true identity from all he meets, Kumaré forges profound, spiritual connections with real people from all walks of life. At the same time, in the absurdity of living as an entirely different person, Vikram the filmmaker is forced to confront difficult questions about his own identity. At the height of his popularity he reveals his greatest teaching: his true self. A playful yet genuine and insightful look at belief and spirituality, the film crosses a line few have dared to cross, that from illusion comes truth.
"Part Borat-style prankumentary and part thoughtful exploration of gurus and religion."- Adam Benzine, Realscreen
"An abundance of food for thought."-Dave Robson, Sound on Sight
"Humorous and thought-provoking without being insensitive or ridiculous." - Sarah Gopaul, Toronto Film Scene
"The perfect blend of heart, truth, and humour. It's a real winner." - Andrew Parker, Criticize This!
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Credit: Kino Lorber, Inc
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Credit: Kino Lorber, Inc
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Credit: Kino Lorber, Inc