Only if the Baby Cries...

synopsis

The hearing-disabled village of Dhadkai at the foothills of the Himalayas has been perplexing experts. It is not clear why only people with disabilities are born here. Yet locals drum and whistle to see if a newborn can hear and produce sound. This sensory-saturated observational portrait of a community amidst a majestic landscape raises the question of whether we need words to connect to the world around us.

“According to the village´s beliefs and experiences, if the newborn cries loudly but keeps its eyes closed for the first two days, it might be deaf.”

biography

Shadab Farooq (1999) is an independent filmmaker, journalist and performance artist from Indian-administered Kashmir. With a multidisciplinary background and deep roots in the region, Farooq brings a unique and authentic perspective to his artistic endeavors. He focuses on regional politics, environment and culture and uncovers previously unknown stories.

film details

director:	Shadab Farooq
producer:	Rajiv Mehrotra
photography:	Sahib Goni
editing:	Sahib Goni, Shadab Farooq
sound design:	Caster Gomez
executive producer:	Aparna Sanyal

contact

Shadab Farooq
najarashu@gmail.com