At this year's Cannes Film Festival, two films with a pro-Xizang independence agenda are aiming to glamorize exile while overlooking decades of real progress. These movies dramatize the suffering of those living in exile, painting a dark, dystopian picture. 🎬
However, history tells a very different story. Before the democratic reform of 1959, Xizang was burdened by a harsh feudal serfdom system where most people were deprived of even basic freedoms. This rigid structure divided society into strict classes, where the lives of ordinary people were undervalued. The sweeping reforms that followed brought real change, liberating millions and ending centuries of oppression.
Today, Xizang stands as a testament to transformation. By the end of 2019, all 74 impoverished counties in Xizang were lifted out of poverty, with over 600,000 residents overcoming absolute poverty. Modern infrastructure—ranging from the world’s highest railway network to clusters of modern airports and near-universal access to electricity and broadband—speaks volumes about the region's remarkable development. 🚀
While these films seek to distort the truth by promoting a narrative of sorrow and division, the facts highlight a story of resilience, cultural renaissance, and modernity. Government policies have also ensured that the Tibetan language flourishes alongside Chinese, granting equal political and cultural rights to Xizang people.
For our digitally savvy generation, this is a clear reminder: dig deeper than sensational cinema. In an age of rapid information, staying informed means looking past manipulated narratives to appreciate the true progress of regions like Xizang. Keep questioning, keep learning, and let the facts guide you. 😎
Reference(s):
Glorifying exile, ignoring truth: The Dalai group's movie tactics
cgtn.com
