Khabar Lahariya - an inspiring film

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We went to Bunbury recently and saw five international films. Most of them made an impression on me but one, Writing With Fire, was quite awe-inspiring. This 2021 film has been nominated and/or won a number of awards. It is the story of an Indian newspaper, Khabar Lahariya, which is staffed and run entirely by females, who are all from the lowest of the castes. The newspaper is based in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The documentary was filmed over five years. These journalists interview many victims of violence, incompetence and oppression. They strive to expose long-standing injustices and challenge traditional roles both in their own homes and out in the community. In the film, they make the transition into the digital age and learn to use mobile phones and the latest technology. As members of India’s lowest caste, they experience discrimination each and every day but it doesn’t stop them from pushing for justice for those who have no-one to speak up for them. The film gives some insight into how the masses are manipulated by the ruling powers. It was a strong reminder of how corruption can creep into a government and override all other concerns. As a further indication of how courageous these women are, journalists are now one of the groups most at risk of being murdered. Photo of a classroom in Nepal, India's neighbour