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Deep Dive: Writing with Fire (2021)

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Writing with Fire
Writing with Fire is a documentary about Khabar Lahariya, the only news agency in India run by Dalit women. The film follows these journalists as they transition from 14 years of print journalism to digital platforms using smartphones. It features Chief Reporter Meera and crime reporter Suneeta, who report from challenging regions, risking their safety to cover critical stories. Set against a backdrop of societal polarization, the film chronicles five years of their work, showcasing how they confront significant issues while redefining power dynamics in their communities and homes. The documentary emphasizes the wit, intelligence, and compassion of these women as they navigate the complexities of journalism in India.

Why Watch

  • •Meet the Dalit women journalists of Khabar Lahariya
  • •Follow Meera and Suneeta as they report from dangerous regions
  • •See the first Indian documentary nominated for an Oscar

Did You Know

•Writing with Fire is the first Indian feature documentary nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
•The film won two awards at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival: the Audience Award and a Special Jury Award.
•In 2023, it won a Peabody Award, making Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh the first Indian filmmakers to receive this honor.
•The film has a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 51 critic reviews.

Perfect For

Journalism enthusiastsDocumentary fansSocial justice advocates