SHILLONG, May 22: Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) is hosting a two-day film selection and exhibition event, supported and mentored by the Southasia Trust (SAT). The initiative aims to foster cultural exchange, regional cooperation, and development within South Asia, with a particular focus on alleviating conflicts and promoting socio-economic growth.
The event features Film Southasia (FSA), a biennial documentary festival held in Kathmandu, and the Hri Institute for Southasian Research and Exchange.
The films and exhibition challenge and reframe visual stereotypes of women and sexual violence in South Asia, promoting images of agency and collective strength.
Originally showcased at the silver jubilee edition of Film Southasia’22, the works highlight collaborations with researchers, filmmakers, and artists over the past four years. They include a stock image bank of Nepali artists conceptualising alternative portrayals of women in media reports.
The film screenings on Wednesday included Before You Were My Mother – A Nepali short film directed by Prasuna Dongol, exploring the complexities of mother-daughter relationships; Decoding Gender – A Bangladeshi film directed by Rawyan Shayema, offering a reflective journey to understand gender binaries. If I Could Tell You – An Indian film directed by Niharika Popli, delving into the unique relationship between two friends — one deaf and one hearing — and their connection to Indian Sign Language.
Prominent dignitaries present included Sanjoy Hazarika, an award-winning journalist and specialist commentator on the Northeast and its neighbouring regions, who initiated the collaboration between Film Southasia and MLCU. Also in attendance were Neha Naqvi, a project manager with Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung South Asia focusing on gender justice, and Patricia Mukhim, Editor of The Shillong Times.
University officials, faculty, and students from various departments, including Sociology, Social Work, and the School of Languages and Cultural Communication, also participated in the event.
This initiative underscores the importance of cultural exchange and the power of visual media in addressing and reshaping societal issues, particularly those related to gender and representation in South Asia.
