Karachi, The short documentary “Dhye Dreams” by Shanta Nepali, has clinched the Best Short Documentary Film award at the 13th Nepal European Union Film Festival (NEUFF) 2024, showcasing the pressing issue of climate change in the Himalayas.

According to The Aga Khan University, “Dhye Dreams,” part of the documentary series ‘Voices from the Roof of the World (VRW)’ Season 3, was featured at NEUFF, which ran from March 20th to 23rd in Kathmandu under the theme “Fifty Years of EU-Nepal Relations: Celebrating Cultural Diversity.” The film was celebrated for its poignant depiction of the lives of Himalayan villagers in Upper Mustang, Nepal, who face the dire necessity to relocate due to the drastic depletion of water resources.

The documentary series, an initiative of Aga Khan Development Network agencies, including Aga Khan University, Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, Aga Khan Foundation, and the University of Central Asia, with support from various donors, is dedicated to bringing to light the environmental and social challenges posed by climate change in Central and South Asia. “Dhye Dreams” focuses on the determination of three women in Upper Mustang as they confront the realities of climate change, portraying their struggle and resilience in a compelling narrative that earned the film recognition and acclaim at NEUFF.

The accolade at the NEUFF 2024 is among the numerous recognitions for the VRW series, which has previously won awards and been featured in international film festivals, demonstrating the impact and relevance of its environmental reporting.

“Dhye Dreams,” and the VRW series as a whole, emphasize the significance of community resilience, local knowledge, and innovative solutions in combating the adverse effects of climate change, particularly in sensitive regions like the Himalayas. These documentaries not only raise awareness but also inspire actions to preserve the environment and support affected communities.