Born Into Brothels
Zana Briski, Ross Kauffman
When co-director Zana Briski first ventured into the brothels of Sonagachi, Kolkata, as a photographer, she found herself surrounded by curious children. She decided to teach them photography and soon found herself deeply involved in their lives.
The film documents her attempts to get eight of these kids into schools and away from the world of prostitution.
It wisely keeps the focus on the children including spirited and fearless Puja,talented and sensitive Avijit, wise and gentle Gour, their stories and the joy and sense of empowerment that photography gives them.
It has been three years since the film was completed. Updates on the children can be found on www.kids-with-cameras.org, the website of the non-profit organisation set up by Briski to help marginalised children around the world through photography.
The powerful message that emerges from this film is that one can, as individuals, make a difference.
It also demonstrates that when hope is introduced into the most wretched of situations, there is a shot that it will take root, grow and eventually blossom.
(ST)