“Pooja, Sir,” Interview with Director Deepak Rauniyar

In a revealing interview, Deepak Rauniyar, the director of “Pooja, Sir,” discusses the intricate personal and social inspirations behind his film in the section Orizzonti, which is deeply rooted in his own experiences with discrimination in Nepal. Rauniyar describes “Pooja, Sir” as a “product of love,” referencing his previous work, “White Sun,” which tackled the aftermath of the civil war in Nepal. This new film continues this thematic exploration, delving into the lived experiences of marginalized communities and the urgent need for dignity and recognition.

Setting the Film Against Historical Protests

Rauniyar shares that he intentionally set “Pooja, Sir” in the same locations where significant protests occurred during the political upheaval of history in 2007 and 2015.

During these demonstrations, hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets to demand federalism and equal rights, risking their lives for the basic necessities of dignity and justice. By anchoring his film in these real-life events, Deepak Rauniyar underscores the importance of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding among different communities.

Collaboration and Diverse Perspectives

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Rauniyar‘s process. His partnership with Asha Magratti, who contributed significantly to the film, adds depth to the narrative. They come from different backgrounds, with Magratti identifying as part of a light-skinned community while Rauniyar aligns himself with populations that face discrimination. This difference enriches the storytelling, as they seek to convey a message that transcends their individual experiences. Rauniyar emphasizes that much of the film’s narrative is inspired by both their lives, showcasing how gender inequality and societal norms have impacted them personally and collectively.

Rauniyar, Portrayal of Women and Gender Disparity

One of the central themes of “Pooja, Sir” is the portrayal of women in Nepal. Rauniyar highlights how uneven representation in films and media often neglects the struggles that women face daily. He reflects on Asha’s encounters with gender disparity during her upbringing, noting how she was denied the same educational opportunities as her brother, who received preferential treatment. This dynamic mirrors broader societal views in Nepal, where gender roles are rigidly defined, often preventing women from realizing their potential.

Through the character of Asha, Rauniyar passionately depicts the challenges faced by women trying to navigate their identities and roles in a patriarchal society. Despite her aspirations to be viewed as a “son” following the loss of her brother, Asha was continually met with resistance and discrimination. Rauniyar notes that these struggles are not just individual stories; they reflect systemic issues deeply entrenched within their culture.

Addressing Marginalization and Stereotypes

The filmmaker intricately weaves these themes into “Pooja, Sir,” showcasing a society where misunderstandings lead to discrimination. Rauniyar articulates the belief that people from more privileged communities often view marginalization through the lens of stereotypes and propaganda, failing to grasp the realities faced by others. He hopes that by engaging audiences with these narratives, they will develop empathy and reconsider their perceptions of marginalized groups.

To ensure authenticity in “Pooja, Sir,” Rauniyar dedicated significant time to research, conducting interviews over several years with various individuals, including police officers. This extensive groundwork informs the film’s representation of social issues, grounding it in the realities of lived experiences. While some elements of the film are fictionalized for narrative effect, Rauniyar insists that the heart of the story remains embedded in true events and personal histories.

In conclusion, Deepak Rauniyar frames “Pooja, Sir” as a cinematic endeavor that goes beyond mere storytelling; it’s an exploration of empathy, identity, and social justice. By giving voice to the disenfranchised and challenging societal norms, the film aims to resonate with audiences not just in Nepal but globally. Rauniyar’s vision is to use cinema as a transformative tool that can spark conversations about discrimination, equality, and the complexities of human experience. For those intrigued by these themes, “Pooja, Sir” promises to be a thought-provoking film that encourages viewers to reflect upon their own perceptions of identity and social justice.

 

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