Kolkata : The
Habitats Trust (THT), a not-for-profit
working on
conserving and restoring ecological functionality as a pathway towards human
well-being, in collaboration with Dusty Foot
Productions(DFP) an organisation
focusing on wildlife and environment films, education and communication across
India, today launched a compelling documentary
film series, Stories from the Ground: Northeast India, during a special
screening in Guwahati. This series of 50 short films, created by local
filmmakers from the Green Hub Project, and produced by THT and DFP shines a
spotlight on the extraordinary biodiversity and cultural richness of Northeast
India—a region that doesn’t get the spotlight often enough.
With Stories from the Ground, The Habitats
Trust aims to bring forth compelling stories from within the region, capturing
the interconnectedness of its natural ecosystems and human societies. By
collaborating with local storytellers, the films authentically portray the deep
connection between people and the environment, offering insights essential to
crafting effective, region-specific conservation strategies.
Rushikesh Chavan, Head of The Habitats Trust, noted, “At The Habitats
Trust, we believe that effective problem solving begins with understanding and
collaboration. Among other things we have focused our efforts in engaging with
local communities, leveraging their knowledge, and creating initiatives that address
the unique challenges of each region. This series exemplifies our broader
commitment to showcasing interjection of biodiversity, culture, and resilience
through meaningful partnerships and storytelling. By amplifying voices from
Northeast India, we aim to inspire collective action and regenerative solutions
for a thriving world.”
Rita Banerji, Founder of Green Hub Project, remarked, “Through these films, we want to focus on Northeast’s rich ecological
and cultural heritage in a way that is both empowering and authentic. Each
story is a testament to the resilience, wisdom, and deep-rooted connections of
the people here to their land.”
Imrana Khan, Director Dusty Foot Productions and Executive Producer of
Stories from the Ground added, “It
is our hope that this series sparks meaningful conversations and tangible
action for the region’s conservation. Made by youth from the region itself
helps amplify local narratives and local voices.”
The
series spans 28 districts across the eight states of Northeast India and
features films in 22 dialects and local languages, with English subtitles.
Covering a diverse range of themes, including unique habitats, endangered
species, traditional ecological knowledge, agro-biodiversity, scientific
research, and innovative solutions for sustainability, the films showcase the
interconnected challenges and opportunities within the region.
As
part of its broader mission, The Habitats Trust uses films to build empathy for
the natural world, raise awareness about conservation, and engage diverse
audiences through compelling storytelling. All films from Stories from the Ground
are available for free on THT’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@thehabitatstrust), alongside more than 100 other films in multiple Indian languages,
including Hindi and Marathi. This extensive collection highlights the tireless
efforts of scientists, researchers, communities, and grassroots
conservationists dedicated to protecting our planet’s species and habitats.
The
Habitats Trust’s commitment to regional expertise and collaboration extends
beyond storytelling. Sub-Himalayan grasslands and lowland rainforests of the
Northeast are critical ecosystems for both humans and wildlife, and face
existential crises due to human pressures. THT works with multiple partners
such as Conservation Initiatives, Aaranyak and Durrell Wildlife Conservation
Trust on these habitats with a focus on key species namely Hoolock Gibbon,
Pygmy Hog, Bengal Florican and grasses across all seven states, and
fills in gaps in technology and expertise as needed in the region.
Details
about the films (with the YT links):
1.
The Last Honey Hunters by Chentei
Khiamniungan: https://youtu.be/HWOONor8AAo?si=7IszqzYvEcH2gpWT.
2.
The Golden Thread by Jahnu Boruah: https://youtu.be/hCuN-8hHJqw?si=9zxxni_g6J-2anzF.
3.
Raimona: The Paradise Unexplored by
Arghadeep Barua- https://youtu.be/msjO1RxSM54?si=H8nCuEkWyoYZsHMF.
4.
Khapa: The Song of Nocte by Chajo Lowang- https://youtu.be/-gjAX-JlG4g?si=4LisQNOEhuX-Jjoh.
5.
The Story of Peno by Tallo Anthony- https://youtu.be/uZUKNEBbDjQ?si=lbcEe8kVnHy2ClgH.
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