Reality Check

Documentary Film Screenings

An NCPA Presentation in collaboration with Cinema Collective   

The Reality Check film series promotes and encourages documentary filmmakers in India, whose work reflects life and culture in the country today in a thoughtful blend of creativity and integrity.

Catapults to Cameras
English & Bengali with English Subtitles (40 mins)

In this film by Roundglass Sustain, Kolkata-born wildlife filmmaker Ashwika Kapur sets out on a deeply personal quest to uncover the roots of an illegal wildlife hunting festival in the forests of Bengal. Here, each year, thousands of protected animals are hunted in an illegal blood sport. She finds out that  children as young as three are handed catapults as weapons in an assault against wildlife. In a defiant act of hope, Kapur teams up with conservationist Suvra Chatterjee, to inspire change where it matters most—in the hearts of children within these hunting communities.

A film by Roundglass Sustain

Directed and produced by Ashwika Kapur

Mulsotan (The Rooted)
Gujarati with English Subtitles (27 mins)

Mulsotan is a documentary on the non-violent struggle of the Vasava tribal community in south Gujarat for their land and forest rights. The film delves into the 32-year-old struggle of the community, during which they have faced threats of eviction from land that they have lived on for generations, from the Forest Department. The story of the Vasavas—which will find parallels in the condition of several tribals and indigenous populations across the globe—is riddled with bureaucratic and legislative obstacles. It shows how creatively combining the force of non-violent protests and technology helped them obtain their rightful land titles. The film also highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s principles that still find relevance in the day-to-day struggles of these vulnerable communities.

Director: Janantik Shukla
Associate Director: Mitesh Sushila
Producer: Mitesh Sushila
Cinematographer: Pratiik Bhalawala
Editor: Burzin Unwala & Prayagraj Choksey
Online Editor: Kunal Tiwari
Music & Sound Designer: Deval Mehta

The film screenings will be followed by a discussion.
Admission on a first-come-first-served basis. NCPA Members will get preferential seating till 6.20 pm.