[Qui-Gon John]

I have a question about Kundun,, after watching it again last week.

During this movie, on one of the thrones/(seats) HH The Dalai Lama sits on, I noticed swastikas. On one side of the seat, the legs of the swastikas went just like the ones the Nazi's used, (The Dalai Lama's right side), but the one on the other side of the seat, the legs went in the opposite direction.

Does anyone know why these were there and/or what they mean in Tibetan culture?

If need be, I can find it again and provide the time stamp when I noticed this. Let me know.

[Mike Brogan]

John,

The opposing swastikas in Eastern culture usually represent yin and yang, good and evil etc. The article below speaks to your question. Interesting stuff.
The Straight Dope
Here's and excerpt from the article:

Quote:

At any rate, the swastika was widespread throughout the ancient world, particularly in India, where it remains in common use by Hindus, Jainas, and Buddhists. Originally it probably symbolized the sun circling through the sky, although many other explanations have also been offered. Up until the 20th century its significance was generally benign.