The millennial nuns practicing a forbidden ancient skill - BBC REEL

In the inherently patriarchal Buddhist tradition, women are considered inferior to men.
But the nuns of the 900-year-old Drukpa Lineage in Nepal are challenging stereotypes by developing exceptional physical and mental strength.
These nuns are the only female order to practice the deadly martial art of Kung Fu.
Video by Alice Carfrae
Executive Producer: Camelia Sadeghzadeh
#bbcreel #bbc #bbcnews

[@ErykaSoleil]

These women are awesome, and I'm glad to see a news piece on them.

[@SolomonSage]

They had a netflix show about nuns and this i guess people accepted it so they changed their minds way to be loving kung fu people.

[@SolomonSage]

@Egg T being christian is about sharing the truth not just being loving budism is a way of life its more a religion christianity is a faith thats truth there buddah wont save u when u die obly christ will we have multiple witnesses and evidence tying what happenee in the bible to be truth famous scientists including newton , benjamin franklin and so on studied the word of god their is faith and truth witch i serve witch is of god and man and religion witch is man made to suite peoples needs budism is religion not truth your talking to a man who spends half of his day doing constant research i know what im talking about.

[@SolomonSage]

@Egg T buddhist people are pecefull people i thought this was a christian post i think i responded as a christian post sorry i went to bed at 9 its midnight now half asleep

[@SolomonSage]

@Egg T buddist are peacefull people but being peacefull doesnt mean you arent strong im a man of peace im not weak i am a man of peace cause i can afford to be so being a peacefull person doesnt mean u wont defend whats importsnt to u understand no matter the power the grace or wisdom we all are all human and share the same concousness if u cut me or i cut you both of us would still bleed we all are differnt yet the same 😊

[@SolomonSage]

Nuns are no different i think its fine way to go world has a little less sexism in it but power right now is out of control hell im working on myself so i can guide the church to a better place the world finally has freedom but at the same time its gone metaly insane just live life my dude 😊

[@sisokun6614]

Let's appreaciate how they have the educational infrastructure to teach them english in that remote place. I feel like that really shows their commitment to for one enable the message to be spread, but also for the nuns to venture out into the world intependently.

[@prisonguy9572]

I worked as an English teacher to Buddhist monks about 20 minutes drive from this place. It is not that remote as it seems in this video and with 10 minutes by car you can be in the city centre of Kathmandu. Most teachers were Western volunteers like me but there were local teachers as well. Bascially the young monks have their own school inside the monastery where they get taught subjects like maths, english, some basic science etc. so most monks (except for the older ones) speak english to some degree. I can't speak for this particular monastery but the one where I worked the young monks were mostly orphans or children from very poor families that couldnt raise these kids themselves. The monastery also functioned as a sort of boarding school to these children and once they finished their education they had the choice to leave the monastery to venture into the world on their own. The english being taught was to make them more independent and to give them a bigger chance of building themselves a future on their own in the modern world, especially in a tourist-dominated economy like Nepal.

[@SrijaBotlaguduru262002]

It’s in kathmandu Nepal it’s definitely not a remote place

[@prisonguy9572]

@@SrijaBotlaguduru262002 nope, probably about 30 minutes from KTM international airport if memory serves. It looks a bit remote in the video but it's just on the edge of the suburbs

[@sariosario6631]

Kathmandu is a capital city its never remote, it sounds like you said a city like New Delhi, Moscow, London are remote

[@Iquey]

That is very smart and thinking ahead for these women. I hope more of the world sees that giving women and girls more choices, free will, and opportunity is the way forward.

[@firebird3639]

These ladies speak so well and choose the best words when talking.

[@mamamememoo]

Esp when u remember this is not their first language yet they speak it well.

[@delpthepath127]

I felt like their accents were a bit some type of African English vs the Chinese accent. That’s how it sounded to me. Both accents are beautiful. The eloquent articulation of the ideas combined with the accents make me feel like I should be paying to watch this.

[@delpthepath127]

@Susmita Chutloji makes sense now

[@georgegrant6796]

I wonder if they have had education abroad, in the West. Local nuns or monks in China for example, don't speak english at all, with very rare exception. I wonder why it's so different with Tibet, which is largely considered a part of China.

[@oliviaharris3959]

You’re meaning to say that articulate well.

[@nh5903]

They are a blessing and an inspiration to women...and men, showing a passion for their faith, gender, community and environment.

[@AkshayKumar-vg2pi]

FAKE NEWS , kung fu is not banned for female monks ,there where female monks who invented new kung fu styles

[@monikerx]

@@AkshayKumar-vg2pi No, it's not fake news. Kung Fu has been off limits to women in Nepal for over 200 years.

[@PriyadarshiniChowdhury]

​​@@monikerx culture usually inducts such hateful segregation. but I'm glad to see knowledge without bounds being reclaimed again here.

[@don1982A]

What’s the harm on practicing & keeping a tradition if there’s no harm done to anyone at all. Amazing way of keeping oneself fit. Powerful women.

[@HiLoveLeighs]

I love that females throughout the world are becoming more empowered, and this is a very beautiful example.

[@farimb2380]

Women ruled allover the world, for some reason only western countries had backward thinking of not allowing women to read, study, fight or rule, good thing it's changing a lil bit, but if you look up traditions, various countries in the world etc, you'll see women even were presidents, queens, diplomats

[@TBONE82]

Hope you still feel the same when transgender woman dominate sports...😱

[@budakdk]

@@farimb2380 Western countries????? 😅 which planet do you live on

[@lancehobbs8012]

Actually Buddha in his lifetime ordained his own aunt as the first female nun approx 2500 years ago . We aren't catholics 😀

[@lancehobbs8012]

@@farimb2380 oh really ? the queen of England is a woman , margaret thatcher, prime minister of new zealand is a woman , i could go on and on

[@everydayelvenliving]

About damn time! Restrictions only realistically apply to an individual's abilities. You can't say, "men can't do..." or "women can't do..." because we're all capable of different levels of things. I'm glad this generation is more open to equal opportunities.

[@kuma1939]

It is great to see & hear how Buddhist nuns are getting on with their lives, actively sharing their beliefs in this life & selflessly spreading love & wisdom through their training & hard work! Buddha bless you /\

[@safaltagurung5676]

As being a Nepali. I was shocked seeing Kathmandu in the caption. I didn't know about them. But I'm so happy that I saw it. So proud!!

[@rinchhensherpa6972]

Same here. Born and raised in Ktm never heard of such amazing Kungfu nuns. Nepali media needs to inform the public on these matter rather than useless politics and reality shows.

[@Nawongyonten-yp4fz]

Nepal must be a Buddhist country. Not a Hindu. Hinduism makes it poor and backward.

[@CFinch360]

"Man who says it should not or cannot be done should not interrupt woman doing it". Rock on, women, rock on.

[@AkshayKumar-vg2pi]

FAKE NEWS , kung fu is not banned for female monks ,there where female monks who invented new kung fu styles

[@monikerx]

@@AkshayKumar-vg2pi No, it's not "FAKE NEWS." Kung Fu has been off limits to women - in Nepal - for over 200 years.

[@monikerx]

They are inspiring.

[@Delinae]

@@recliningbuddha from your example of the buddha, it's clear that knowing martial arts doesn't automatically lead to the person abusing it. There are other teachings and structural factors that will make the practitioner choose other ways out of conflict.

[@viperfwarlock]

I love this quote!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@achillelalonde]

As a man, I would like to thank you and acknowledge you for your courage in breaking with male traditions and views about women. The time has come for change. Blessings on your journey. 🙏

[@Nakitzalepotice]

"Kung Fu is an art which is not only designed for men" True 💕

[@-nvmanyhow1436]

Indeed. For example, Wing Chun, a style of kung fu that Bruce Lee practiced was developed by a woman Yim Wing-chun and her teacher had also been a woman, a Shaolin Buddhist nun and abbess Ng Mui.

[@debzdoyle7638]

@@-nvmanyhow1436 well said my friend, well said.

[@Yours_sincerely_thedreamer]

They are activists for a better world in their own beautiful way. 🌱❣️

[@Trund27]

@@lethemeatcake1793 Oh my lord - you need to get out more, son. Maybe try giving to others?

[@harambeegardens8705]

A better world. 'Bout time. 😊

[@kstang9441]

Great ladies, these nuns. I admire them. I may not a nun, but being a Buddhist, I will practise compassion and trust Buddha's blessings

[@xiqueira]

That is all that matters.

[@ajve8181]

Head nun Lopen Jigme Tingdzin Zangmo is goals. Major respect.

[@Mm-ks4dr]

These nuns are totally awesome, they are truly exemplary for all women and girls. Thankyou

[@QueenMuser]

So this is where Kyoshi warriors come from!

[@leolam5035]

China is a country of viruses China is a big country of lies

[@entertainmentprime101]

We found them.

[@snailkid1778]

I was thinking the same thing! XD

[@shristibhattarai2344]

@@leolam5035 this is Nepal's documentary what are you talking about ?

[@pomken_seed8326]

Kyoshi warriors are primarily based on Japanese culture though, with the tessenjutsu (fans) and make-up.

[@reynierguerrero8244]

I am very grateful to be able to see this video of how Buddhist nuns are helping to adapt the dharma, to evolve the dharma, it is time for incredible things like this to happen to help all beings and to reach out every each one of them. 🙏

[@miatarraf3414]

Absolutely incredible women. I hope they can continue to spread this message of compassion and empowerment to their community for years to come. 💕

[@karynnmackinnon3975]

This is awesome! All women should train this way or in some other martial arts program. The human race is stronger with empowermed women.

[@aliceberethart]

I agree. I trained karate for man tears.

[@aliceberethart]

*many years

[@kairabanzon3928]

@@aliceberethart was that intentional 😂

[@SolomonSage]

Just dont let your ego dump you down sttength is an amazing thing but more importantly is kindness honesty loyalty and truth the essence of how a man should be have nowadays but men have fogotten this i think its wonderfull woman take martail arts but its not reaaly needed if you want to defend yourself against a man unless a man hits you best not to hit him back

[@sandking588]

Please. Women these days are more concerned about their phones, money, and being lazy. Hats off to these women. 99.9%

[@601salsa]

Epic. If monks can do kung fu so can nuns. Love it. I hope these nuns continue their progress

[@ericaeng7270]

Wow so incredible and inspiring! Thank you for sharing their stories. I hope more journalists and news stations interview nuns

[@DLC1325]

The movements with the fans are INCREDIBLE. So beautiful!

[@jackwhite3934]

This is lit, nun shall mess with the nuns

[@stanleyho8009]

No. Hahha. No. BAD PUN

[@ddoubleu170]

*none* You can spell it correctly. It’s still going to be pronounced the same way.

[@boredcoke]

@@ddoubleu170 Their spelling was intentional. It’s called a pun. A play on words if that makes sense

[@socorrorocha2687]

@@ddoubleu170 i Hope you're joking, because the first Guy is

[@motorvehicle1330]

I love the pun lol

[@Fitover50s]

Physical and spiritual balance is absolutely necessary and this is such a delight to see ..so proud of these women! 🙏

[@anissofia3745]

This is beautiful and inspiring to watch! "One day, I hope men and women will be same" , spoken from a nunnery this is so uplifting!

[@SageRosemaryTime]

This is so positive I'm almost unable to express. Life affirming at it's best . We Need this video and more like it. We NEED these women and more like them : )

[@maryhjort7318]

This is really, really wonderful on so many levels.

[@LeezPgh]

This is the best of humanity.

[@marinaloulli3452]

That is very refreshing to know and long overdue

[@andreacruzvargas6243]

So uplifting and thank you for uplifting other women to do what you have done

[@scarletfaith3147]

What an amazing story. Thank you for bringing it to us.

[@TheMachineMother84]

This such an inspiring story. As a martial artists myself, I can't fully express how important self defense techniques are for women accross te world. Those who don't like Kung Fu Nuns can go fly... these women should continue to liberate themselves and others!

[@trash-3058]

6:03 and 6:20 Her glasses be fly as ****

[@trishstafford9092]

My Aunty was a Franciscan missionary nun serving in Uganda in the fifties and she did jujitsu, well done.

[@LisaCaudill001]

What amazing ladies they are. How inspiring they are!

[@stewartwhite4695]

As a man writing this I think its good like the nun said it's good for the mind body and soul plus there able to defend themselves. Well done to you all your a very good role model.👍👍👍

[@almazifull]

So inspiring. How brave, strong, loving.

[@tamzen8630]

Im so moved by this piece, thank you. Power to kungfu nuns

[@asedition8847]

What amazing people and what a beautiful country

[@scarletfaith3147]

To allow the energy of woman who are the life givers will only strengthen their faith.

[@paulinebradleysoundinspira6981]

Brilliant and uplifting! Thankyou for this 🙏🏼

[@motorvehicle1330]

Thank you for sharing this BBC! I love how positive the comment section is too! Great way to empower women by showing examples of badass women. They are out there, but very few knows of them. Thanks for bringing them into spotlight!

[@deoxyplasmic]

I feel and and am delighted by this change. Their empowerment brings such joy. That all are equal when following the mountain path.

[@chrishoo2]

This is a thing of great beauty!

[@MsTuliplady]

My word, I was floored by the beauty of that place. How magical... The landscape, the colors... Wow

[@PhimbleG-d]

And with that, I found my calling.

[@shik594]

Truly inspiring!! Thanks for sharing this

[@estr4nged1]

Girls can walk the talk, if they get the opportunity. -kung fu nun

[@fitnesspoint2006]

They look and think more like boys. Likely lebians and dont even know it.

[@estr4nged1]

@@fitnesspoint2006 that’s the most ignorant statement you could say about this video.

[@rkr2765]

This is beautiful and inspiring

[@mirianoyola9189]

I LOVE this💖💖💖 Barriers Are tearing down....may u all continue on ur Blessed path..thank u for what u do💖💖💖

[@mard9802]

Wonderful! Namaste to the ladies!

[@itsjoy987]

that is soooooo powerful and inspiring🤍🤍🤍✨✨ keep going you all, i’m so happy to see this!!😍😍🤍🤍

[@mapuanakupuna3471]

LOVE THESE NUNS FOR WHO THEY ARE & ALL THAT THEY DO!! Aloha nui/Much love to you all!

[@shanicem3929]

This is so badass and amazing. Good for them actually helping and raising awareness.

[@lesleymicuda4041]

What a great way of life.... I’m very envious ... so glad this is available to these women... their energy and training is changing the world...

[@marymccluer1630]

They work well together, and no doubt they bring joy and inspiration to communities they visit.

[@MsYTcommentator]

so they are the 'legit' warrior nuns :)

[@sharmistha1916]

This is so inspiring! It is liberating and absolutely empowering to see such a level of incorporation of both the old and the new. More power and love to everyone.

[@meh5069]

So warrior nuns are real?!

[@janethevegan9982]

ThThat'she first thing that popped into my head.

[@OhSweetMuffin]

Brilliant! This is inspirational and truly wonderful!

[@rajivlutel5639]

Kathmandu here I come.

[@donmichael1960]

3.17 somehow the music makes me feel tarantino enters to manage the problem

[@juliaconnell]

This is awesome - very inspiring - thank you

[@cherrybaylon9737]

These women should be supported! I TOTALLY AGREE WITH THESE NUNS!

[@sspito]

Now we just wait for Hollywood to remove all spiritual and social aspect from this and release: ”The Dawn of the Kung Fu nuns”.

[@RegstarRogstar]

The ceremonial garbs and instruments are very pretty and colorful. I love seeing them. I have so much respect for people who pursue this sort of life wholeheartedly! They seem to lead a v fulfilling life

[@ccanela28]

This is so beautiful, it fills my soul with so much love and gratitude for them. 😌💛🙏🏼

[@ldum65]

Such an amazing piece. Thank you!!

[@wandering_vaidu]

Keep going you are real inspiration 💖🙏

[@CeramicQuill]

Amazing! I am so proud of their strength and dedication

[@FCgrl]

Incredible inspirations to us all

[@tsheringzd]

BBC reel just got new subscriber

[@katiefountain2407]

May their efforts on equality and putting an end to human trafficking be blessed and come to fruition. ♥️

[@NACAFarm]

I've watched Netflix's Warrior Nun. This reminds me of that series haha

[@uliuli8997]

So refreshing to see nuns moving on up. All the best on your journey. 📿🙏

[@cestmoi5702]

Beautiful. Brings tears to my eyes. Love!

[@Digalog]

Beautiful !!! Everything of it !

[@clairer42]

I am grateful for these women.

[@Peace4All09]

Fantastic, i am proud of you all too. Bless ❤️🙏 ❤️

[@t9310]

My god, I am beaming with pride. Way to go ladies! Major kudos to you.

[@Thunderdog73]

Excellent video!

[@carolynellis387]

I think education in the West especially under 11 could do with this, a sense of self discipline for life

[@leisurelyarting]

I love it❤️ I think it's a training for both the mind and the body.

[@morinagonzalez5752]

Im so thrill by this incredible energy! It's just amazing how their share they message, I literally feel that throw the screen!!!! The way the head master leads their community...I love all the coments, by the way, that means all feel the same all over the globe. (PD: i also think that they are badass kungfu nuns and I can see now that everybody can rock their own way)

[@russellhawkins5113]

That Path is a Functioning one. Congratulations. Excellent production.

[@oliviadesign]

Patriarchy runs deep, including into nunneries. It great to see these women fighting back!

[@dianesmith6127]

This is fantastic. I see this as bringing balance to make and female energies.🧡

[@parthachatterjee248]

It's always a proud moment empowering the women ! 👍

[@janybear01]

Really beautiful. This kind of work is strong and amazing, keep it up.

[@kungfupanda-s8q]

Love and respect from Sri Lankan Bhikkhunis (nuns) 🇱🇰💚💚💚🙏🙏🙏

[@fortune_roses]

Wow this looks like it could be a cool movie

[@OfficialJaNeyJohnson]

I love this idea ☺️ what A great way to practice 🙏🏽

[@Grahh777]

Spiritual warriors 🙌

[@NayanKharadi]

BBC should encourage more videos like this to liberate Tibet from China's occupation. Good work BBC

[@nourah5033]

This is really Amazing! What incredible badasses!

[@super_vampire_princess]

THEY ARE TRULY BADASS.

[@cathalodiubhain5739]

Excellent video..

[@MindTheMindMindfulnessMusic]

"You have to develop a habit of saying positive things about yourself. It's almost like tricking your mind sometimes because although you may not necessarily 'feel' that way, you'll get into the habit of thinking positive things about yourself subconsciously."

[@lofi_soul_jazz]

airbenders!