Greetings again from the darkness. For many countries, tourism is vital to economic stability. For that revenue, there is often a price to pay. It could be overcrowding, destruction of natural resources, diminishing local culture, or even a jolt to pride and self-respect. With majestic Everest within its borders, Nepal has become a popular spot for western tourists to visit and partake in paragliding.
As one of the poorest countries in the world, Nepal and its citizens are forced to cater to the tourists, and that's where we meet 13 year old Ashmina (played by Dikshya Karki). The young girl spends her days hustling for tips by packing up the parachutes of the paragliders after they land. We hear the obnoxious westerners discouraging their friend from 'over-tipping', though he initially has some compassion for Ashmina.
We learn more about Ashmina when we follow her home. She is prevented from attending school like her brother, and is instead expected to work all day and deliver her tips to the family. When her request for pocket money is denied by her parents, her solution provides a moment of enjoyment, followed by a harsh reminder of her place.
Filmmaker Dekel Berenson based the film on his own experiences while traveling, and his 15 minute short film (and its dark turn at the end) is particularly timely given what's happened recently with some tourists in the Dominican Republic.
