The fifth Ekadeshma International Short Film Festival is all set to kick-off on Thursday with the screening of 99 films from all over the world in five different sections that deal with various social, political and cultural issues.

My City’s Nasana Bajracharya talked to four of the female filmmakers who are participating in the four-day Festival to know more about their projects.

The Colors of Life- Sarah Tamang

What is ‘The Colors of Life’ about?

‘Color of Life’ unfolds the struggle of a town girl in every stage of her life. She shares her painful childhood, confused teenage and bitter relationship. I always wanted to make a female-oriented film to show the realities of our society which we see, know it’s there but don’t talk about, ignore and eventually forget. In the film, I have briefly included issues of molestation, gender inequality, menstrual problems, physical harassment, and acid attack seen in our society.

Why participate in Ekadeshma Film Festival?

I think Ekadeshma is one of the best platforms for filmmakers to share their work. It is one of the prestigious film festivals of Nepal. I am happy that my film got selected and a lot of people will be able to see my work and hopefully realize the bitter realities of our society through my film. And I hope they will give me feedback to do better next time. 

Maila Dai- A MAN WHO REBUILT A VILLAGE - Rajeela Shrestha

What is ‘Maila Dai’ about?

It is a short documentary about Maila Lama, about his experiences, struggles and contributions and how recovered not only his business but also helped in rebuilding the Thangpalkot village, in Sindhupalchowk after the massive earthquake hit Nepal in April 25, 2015. I found Maila Dai’s story in BBC Travel, went through it and was really impressed by his deeds at the time of need. There were multiple interviews and hours of footages. But I wanted to make it short so I selected important information and packed it within six minutes. I have given extra care to the audio so that the narration won’t be a problem to listen to and used music to boost character’s emotions.

Why participate in Ekadeshma Film Festival?

It is one of the platforms where we get a large audience. We also get to meet senior filmmakers from around the world and receive their feedback, which motivate us to make more films and work on our mistakes/weaknesses too. I am looking forward to watch my film in the big screen along with my friends and family, teachers and other audiences.

Nirobey (Bangladesh)- Jannatful Ferdous Ivy

What is ‘Nirobey’ about? 

‘Nirobey’ is the story of change-makers: stories of women who work at ground level on social issues and the hidden injustice. The film revolves around the film’s protagonist, Hasina Azmol, and her take on an inequitable decision that changed her life. How she faces hardship at new workplace. The film talks about equal rights for women at work place. The issue is universal so I hope viewers of all cultures will relate and accept the film’s story and the portrayal of women’s roles in the film. It is a women-centric film which depicts women’s role from a woman’s perspective. I hope it to be a tool to ensure gender equality in economic empowerment and dignity. 

Why participate in Ekadeshma Film Festival?

Ekadeshma was a very welcoming platform and entry regulations were also inspiring so I decided to submit my film. To be able to represent my country and share my views here with ‘Nirobey’, gives me immense pleasure. I wish all the viewers will provide their opinions and help me make better films in future. I am grateful to Ekadeshma team for the opportunity as the first woman film-maker with disability from my country.

Royera Hoina Hansera - Sujata Dhungana

What is ‘Royera Hoina Hansera’ about?

In the conflict era that extended from Falgun 2052-Mangsir 2063 BS, more than 17,000 people lost their lives and over 1,400 people disappeared. Their families still live in hope to see their loved ones. The documentary is about women in search of their husbands are being cursed and blamed by the society instead of helping and understanding their pain. The topic is quite sensitive so we have worked on every small detail and had to show that even after 10 years justice was not served. In course of the documentary, we interviewed many women. We saw their pain and encouraged them ‘not to cry’ and fight for justice and their rights ‘with a smile’.

Why participate in Ekadeshma Film Festival?

It is one of the biggest film festivals for Nepali film makers. It is the opportunity for us to share our stories to the world, and how Nepali women are still suffering. I hope to learn many things about the movie making and get guidance from different film-makers in one place.