Known as the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini, Nepal, is a famous pilgrimage site with more than 40 Buddhist temples. In the temples, hundreds of children, mostly orphans, receive care and education as trainees. The film documents their lives through the eyes of a five-year-old young monk, Hopakuli, who was brought to the temple with his brother Chorten. The camera depicts the boys, without interfering in their lives, capturing the harmony of their modest lives in the temple. The world of Hopakuli centers on a fight and reconciliation with his brother, a simple wish to eat delicious foods, and his relationship with other trainees and teachers. The older ones, Chorten and Vija, however, feel the gap between the stoic religious environment and the outside world. They depart for a temple for older boys, leaving Hopakuli behind. The boys’ lives aren’t stable as they have to choose whether to become monks or leave the temple when they become adults. While the film portrays the temple and the boys beautifully with the camera and music, it also reveals the harsh side of reality. (CHO Hyeyoung)