MADE IN PARADISE, 44min., India
Directed by Aniruddha Das
Set against the stunning backdrop of Ladakh, Made In Paradise tells the story of the Changpa nomads, guardians of the world's finest Pashmina. A testament to human resilience and perseverance, the film highlights the community's immense respect for the environment, and its attempt to protect a rich heritage and culture, only to ensure that their Pashmina remains a global treasure. The film also explores the symbiotic relationship between the herders and their animals, the legacy of the Pashmina, and the fight to preserve a way of life that teeters on the edge of survival.

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Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

The breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh and the resilient spirit of the Changpa nomads drew me in. Their story—rooted in harmony with nature and a fight to preserve heritage—felt too precious to remain untold. This film is my love letter to them and my way of sharing their story with the rest of the world.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

It took about a year and a half to bring this film to life. We wanted to immerse ourselves in the journey of the Changpa across seasons—through the extreme winters and harsh summers of Ladakh—capturing the rhythm of their lives as it unfolds.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Resilient Harmony.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

The biggest challenge was reaching the remote, high-altitude locations near the Indo-China border and finding the nomads, who are always on the move. It was a journey of patience and persistence, inspired by the very spirit of the Changpa people.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Watching the audience react to our film for the first time was nothing short of thrilling. Hearing their positive words and knowing the story resonated deeply was both humbling and exhilarating—it felt like the journey was truly worth it.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

After over a decade in the advertising industry, I realized the power stories have to connect with and inspire people. My work has allowed me to encounter countless such untold stories from India that deserved a global voice. This film is my humble beginning to bring those narratives to the world.

7.What film have you seen the most in your life?

The film I've seen the most is Baraka. Its visual poetry and ability to convey profound stories without words deeply resonate with me, reminding me of the universal language of cinema.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Festivals like yours already excel in connecting filmmakers to audiences and amplifying our voices. A valuable addition could be live Q&A sessions with the audience after screenings—whether virtual or in person. These interactions allow for direct engagement, fostering a deeper understanding of the stories we tell and inspiring future collaborations.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

FilmFreeway has been a seamless and intuitive platform for submitting films. Its accessibility and organized interface make the process straightforward, allowing filmmakers to focus on storytelling rather than logistics. It's a great bridge between filmmakers and festivals worldwide.

10. What is your favorite meal?

My favorite meal is Shapta with Tingmo, a flavorful Tibetan stir-fry paired with soft, steamed bread. Its rich spices and comforting textures make it a dish that feels like home.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Next, I'm exploring the intricate world of Ladakh Shingskos—a centuries-old woodwork tradition, shaped by time and nature, now fighting to preserve its legacy in a rapidly modernizing world. This is the untold story of art, resilience, and the hands that carve history.