Feb 23 2025 to Feb 23 2025 6 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

42 minutes, 04 seconds | Nepali, English & Lepcha | English Subtitles

“Before the formation of this holy Rongnue (Teesta) from the bottom of Kongchen (Khanchendzonga),

We used to narrate the parentage of River Rongnue,

Water of the river Teesta we use to offer during the ritual,

If this water dries up, there will be a drought,

Rongnue is a holy water, it is a god of water… Achulay, we narrate as a song,

Achulay

Rongnue is the god of water…”

With hydro energy being one of the convenient and available energy source for the development of any given State, the film tries to understand the relationship between various groups and communities of Sikkim and West Bengal with River Teesta. This film tries to trace the faint and unheard voices of local people who are affected by these developments. It travels from the source of River Teesta till the tip of the plains of North Bengal, traverses through mini and mega hydel projects to capture these naked voices and their bond, angst, adaptation and reconciliation with River Teesta.

The story particularly revolves around the unique practice and beliefs of mountain communities and they express their significance of the river through their folklore, sacred ritual and scriptures. Communities from downstream struggle to balance their faith and religion with such developments and others confess the helpless need of sustaining and adapting to the changing economic patterns and surmounting unemployment. The film eventually ends with a question if Teesta will ever speak for herself.

The film screening will be followed by a discussion and Q&A with the audience.

Credits:
Director: Minket Lepcha
Editor: Wangyal Sherpa & Salil Mukhia
Cinematographer: Anup Aadin Das
Sound: Hishey Bhutia
Research: Kachyo Lepcha & Minket Lepcha