Indian farmers’ protests and CAA documentaries to be showcased at Hot Docs festival

Two Indian documentaries chronicling protests against legislation brought in by the Government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India will be featured at North America’s largest documentary film festival, Hot Docs, this year. The 31st edition of the festival kicks off in Toronto on Thursday and runs through May 5.

One of the featured films, “Farming The Revolution,” directed by Nishtha Jain and co-directed by Akash Basumatari, follows the farmers’ protests against three controversial farm laws enacted by the Indian government. The documentary captures the spirit of the protests that began in late 2020 and culminated in the government repealing the legislation a year later.

Another film, centered around the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) at Shaheen Bagh, is produced and directed by Nausheen Khan. The documentary explores themes of exclusion, polarization, and repression while showcasing the strength and resilience of the women of Shaheen Bagh.

Other Indian films to be showcased at Hot Docs include “Marching In The Dark,” which addresses farmer suicides through the story of a widow named Sanjeevani, and “Drawing A Line,” which focuses on cartoonist Rachita Taneja’s fight against censorship using stick figures.

Additionally, Canadian director Barry Avrich’s “Born Hungry” will be a highlight at the festival, tracing the journey of celebrity chef Sash Simpson from his humble beginnings on the streets of Chennai as a street kid to his success.

These Indian productions promise to offer a unique perspective on the social and political issues facing the country, making them must-watch films at Hot Docs this year.