In this latest full interview for the Fifty Years, Fifty Voices Project, we hear from Dharmashalin. Now the Mitra convenor for the Birmingham Buddhist Centre, Dharmashalin made his first proper contact with Buddhism at 19 years old, after a period of drug-based experimentation and existential angst. But as is often the way with drugs, It became an obstacle in his life and what was once a source of inspiration, became something much darker. It started being more and more about escape.

It was Christmas ‘98 that a friend would lend him a copy of Sogyal Rimpoche’s ‘Tibetan Book of Living and Dying’, leaving a strong impression. Specifically it was the section on Karma and Rebirth which set forth the realization that one’s actions have consequences, even beyond the present life.

Dharmashalin speaks from the heart in this deep and far reaching interview, with his usual characteristic openness and sincerity.

Extracts from this talk were used for the 50 Years, 50 Voices project - visit the dedicated space on The Buddhist Centre Online for more.