Krishnan, Siddhartha. Decent Work in Darjeeling. Bangalore: Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), 2024. 31:05 min. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS4dTQ8q6YU.
The Eastern Himalayas, with their awe-inspiring landscapes and rich biodiversity, have captivated scientists, tourists, trekkers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. However, amidst the beauty lies a story often untold—the story of the porters.
These unsung heroes are the backbone of expeditions into the Eastern Himalayas, shouldering the responsibility of transporting essential equipment, provisions, and supplies up treacherous mountain terrains. From scientific gear to camera lenses, from food and water to LPG cylinders and tents, they enable exploration and discovery in these remote regions.
Despite their vital role in advancing science and facilitating exploration and the local economy, the contributions of these hardworking individuals have long been normalised and overlooked. They remain faceless in colonial natural history publications, and conservation sciences, social and natural, have failed to acknowledge their indispensable role.
This film is directed by Siddhartha Krishnan, a Senior Fellow at ATREE, is a sociologist who aims to change the narrative. He gives voice to the invisible and unorganised labour that forms the foundation of life in these mountain towns, shedding light on their invaluable contributions and untold stories. (Source: YouTube)
This documentary was directed by Siddhartha Krishnan, who was a Carson Fellow in 2012.
© 2024 Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE).