TURA, July 27: In a proud moment for the state of Meghalaya and its people, a documentary titled Achik Kol–The Uncharted Caves of the Garo Hills, directed by Gregory Allya Warjri and produced by NOMADS Film, secured first place in the Professional Category at the prestigious 19th International Congress of Speleology, held in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
This global event brought together outstanding cave documentaries from across the world, with 17 professional and 16 amateur entries representing countries like Brazil, Australia, Lebanon, Argentina, Hungary, France, Spain, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland.
Filmed in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya during the Core Geo Caving Expedition 2024, Achik Kol chronicles the inspiring journey of international explorers, scientists, and local cavers. A highlight of the expedition was the discovery of a prehistoric whale fossil in Tolegre—a find of major scientific significance.
The film has already reached international audiences, with screenings at the Hidden Earth UK Caving Conference (September 2024) and Le Festival des Voyageurs d’Ici, Switzerland (November 2024). The documentary is soon to be screened in Shillong for the public and students — aimed at sparking curiosity and wonder in the next generation.
“We express our heartfelt gratitude to Thomas Arbenz and Ayush Singh, founders of Core Geo Expedition, and a special thanks to Jean Marc Jutzet and Roman Hapka for presenting the film in Brazil and representing us on the world stage,” a press release stated.
Special thanks were also extended to the incredible team behind this effort, namely Iainangsan Warjri, Lovingstar Khongkai, Derric Lyndem, Dalariti Nongpiur, Benji Syiem, Sunny Dohling, Tudor Tamas, the Core Geo team and the Expedition team, District Administration, the Nokmas, local guides and Achik Cavers Exploration Society, the people of Tolegre and Nokatgre, the traditional artists, TMPRO Recordings, and the Meghalayan Age initiative.
“This achievement not only puts Meghalaya on the global speleological map but also shines a light on the state’s rich underground heritage, storytelling, and spirit of exploration,” it added.
