I Am Belmaya

I found this a fascinating and very moving film - I would love to meet Belmaya.

A film about Belmaya, partially shot by Belmaya.

I hope that Belmaya can keep the momentum going, these fleeting moments when you capture people's attention are very brief and very few people can follow that up at least at the same level. It's really a matter of luck and chances. She was doing her training, she probably had some sponsorships, was given the equipment and guidance, and she clearly had support and mentorship. And she resonated with people and was addressing issues that were "in" at the level of the national discourse I imagine. And she was a case herself, perfectly illustrating her own documentary short and being the main focus of this here documentary. Sadly that is sometimes the case with these "fashionable" topics. How long can they stay relevant, how long can she stay relevant on the scene after the chatter about her work dies down?

These programs target and support people at risk for a while. But then they need to help themselves. I hope she is able to. And that she is able to shoot. For money or for herself, or preferably both.

As for the film, I am appalled at what women have to put up with in some parts of the world, the humiliation, the suffering, the pain, the constant danger from your own family members, it's disheartening really. Nine castes in a village, what on earth is that? And how was he higher caste when he couldn't even read? The policeman said he was entitled to burn and kill her. It looks like the police should outlaw these beliefs and customs, doesn't it?

I never trusted that husband of hers, that change was never going to last. He would never accept feeling inferior to his wife, which he clearly was. That's how patriarchy works. If she's not objectively inferior, he needs to bring her down by threats and violence. Good riddance!

What an amazing film. You are taken in her perspective of the world and how she goes against society norms in Nepal. The camera helps her fight through. We are taken through her life and how she has grown and changed, and how she is helping everyone grow and change. It's just amazing. You go through an emotional roller coaster.

A really well made, delightful, eye-opening and touching film. I loved the journey that Belmaya went on and the soundtrack is also a belter. I'll be keeping my Brady eyes open for the filmmakers next project. A must watch.

Beautiful piece of film making with an important message regarding the need to educate young girls in Nepal and by extension other developing countries. A meta-film filled with beauty and strength leaving the viewer with hope for Belmaya and her future.