A documentary feature film “SunGanges” written, edited and directed by Valli Bindana is about transition from non-renewable to renewable energy resources. The film is focused on conflict between land, energy, water and people in India. The movie covers a bigger canvas and connect the dots where these elements interact. A 72 minute feature film is extracted from 130 hours video footage collected over a period of 4 and ½ years.
An interview with film writer, editor and director, Valli Bindana
Valli Bindana, a traveller and passionate filmmaker traveled to the Himalayan basin in Uttarakhand in her early years when it was rich, green and resourceful. While re-visiting the area again in year 2012, she noticed a difference in the natural biodiversity. This is when she decided to find out the reasons for disappearance of rivers and how people are affected by this change.
With the thought of doing something about the people living in the affected areas, Valli started interviewing people initially without a movie plan or script. She just wanted to find answers. She visited distant areas and talked to locals, NGOs and researchers working on issues which arose due to hydro power projects; which is also the basic reason behind disappearance of rivers. With dying rivers, the major life source of local people is in danger as they are struggling to obtain enough water for their day-to-day life and farming needs. Similar challenges are also faced by people living in the vicinity of coal mines.
On the other hand, with technological innovation and investment in green energy, many countries are making a difference by reducing carbon footprints and saving natural resources. Over the period of more than 4 years, Valli traveled across India from north to south in search of solutions and exploring the options for renewable energy. Without any script, proper video equipment or a trained crew; she was shooting with her daughter and friends. She spent her savings in travelling, lodging and food. The journey has many ups and downs including a show of resistance from locals, interrogation by cops and villagers. However, Valli never gave up and continued with her passion for film-making.
The film highlights issues of energy crisis and makes people think about the decreasing availability of natural resources. The movie has already been screened in three film festivals across Europe and Asia. It is in the process of certification in India but can be viewed privately in India and other countries. If you want to watch SunGanges in your office, schools/universities, with friends and family; you can always request it online on sunganges.com. On the occasion of Day of Action for Rivers, a special slot for screening will be available between Mar 14-22, 2018.
Movie trailer, Rentals and More details: www.sunganges.com
