an ocean full of hope

Jal Saheli - Journey to Orchha

In early January 2024, we traveled from Düsseldorf to Orchha, a historic town in Bundelkhand, India. From January 1 to 4, we shot a film portraying the life and work of Laxmi Kushwaha. The focus was on her role within the Jal Saheli movement, a group of women advocating for access to clean water and the improvement of living conditions in their region.

The idea for this film was developed in collaboration with Viva Con Agua and Welthungerhilfe, in cooperation with the local NGO Parmarth. The goal was to document the challenges and determination of women in this water-scarce region. Beyond our commercial work at TWIST, projects like this are particularly meaningful. They provide an opportunity to tell socially relevant stories and raise awareness about important issues, such as water scarcity and women’s rights in this case.

Laxmi’s Personal Story and the Fight for Water

At the heart of the film is Laxmi Kushwaha, a young ambassador for the Jal Saheli movement. Jal Saheli, meaning “Water Friend,” is a network of women actively working in the villages of Bundelkhand to protect water resources and restore water access. Through Laxmi’s efforts, water sources have been preserved and rebuilt, ensuring supply and raising awareness of sustainability in the region.

The film vividly depicts Laxmi’s daily life, her connection to nature, and the power of community. Despite often challenging circumstances and the effects of drought, the community remains undeterred. They take fate into their own hands, demonstrating what can be achieved when women take responsibility. Laxmi’s inspiring story is a shining example of perseverance and the determination to create real change.

Change in Action and Mindset

After the shoot, it became even clearer how vital the work of the Jal Saheli is for the region. This film is not only a portrait of Laxmi’s commitment but also a call to action to support global efforts in water conservation and the promotion of women’s rights.

The partnerships with Viva Con Agua and Welthungerhilfe, along with the work of Parmarth, highlight the importance of working together to find solutions to global challenges such as water scarcity. With this film, we aim to share this story with the world and inspire even more people to advocate for sustainable solutions. Those who wish to contribute are warmly invited to donate via this link:

Here’s the link to the donation campaign

Projects like these are close to our hearts as a film production company, as they contribute to socially relevant issues and harness the power of film to raise awareness and drive change.