Seven Years In Tibet

Harrer and Aufschnaiter settled into life in Lhasa and began to feel like true members of the community. Harrer was invited to a celebration for the Dalai Lama’s youngest brother’s birth, and Harrer and Aufschnaiter witnessed a grand procession of the entire town as the Dalai Lama went to his summer garden home in Norbulingka. The Dalai Lama spent all of his time in Potala Palace, and it was a welcome break for him to spend the summer outdoors. The procession included all the officials, the Dalai Lama’s belongings (including his birds), and music.

Harrer discusses the daily life and culture of people in Lhasa. He notes that they were deeply devoted to their religion and to what Harrer regards as superstitious beliefs surrounding medicine (they relied heavily on herbal remedies), weather, and childrearing. They believed, too, that all life was sacred, and worked hard to preserve the life of every creature, both large and small. 

In the summer it got very dry, and the people of Lhasa would pour water in the streets, followed by a ritual performed by a rainmaker, to bring the rains in. Harrer was skeptical, but never challenged their beliefs out of respect.