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DODA: In a moment of pride for Jammu & Kashmir, the documentary Only if the Baby Cries… has won the prestigious Best Short Film Award at the 28th Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival. This Indian film, which centers on the lives of deaf and mute individuals in Doda’s remote Dhadkai village, stood out among 22 films in the Short Joy competition, bringing international acclaim to the region.
Directed by Shadab Farooq, the documentary captures the unique experiences of Dhadkai’s residents, a village with a significant population of deaf and mute people. With cinematography by Sahib Syed Goni and sound design by Caster Rinoy Gomez, the film offers a touching portrayal of resilience and community. Anzer Ayoob, who served as Location Manager and Researcher, ensured that the story remained authentic and true to the heart of the village.
“This film is a tribute to the strength and spirit of Dhadkai’s people,” said Ayoob. “We are overjoyed that this story, which is so close to us, has found recognition on an international stage.”
Produced by Rajiv Mehrotra and executive produced by Aparna Sanyal, Only if the Baby Cries… is not just a cinematic achievement but a cultural milestone for Jammu & Kashmir. The documentary provides a rare glimpse into the lives of those often unheard, both literally and metaphorically, and has brought global attention to the beauty and complexity of life in Doda.
The 28th Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival opened with Ms. President, directed by Marek Šulík, and celebrated a variety of films from across the globe. Alongside the win for Only if the Baby Cries…, other significant awards included Best Documentary Book for If I am to Die, Let it Be a Story, about Palestinian women living in the Czech Republic, and the Respekt Magazine Award for A Bridge Between Lives, which covered the evacuation of people from war-torn Ukraine.
MLA Doda, Mehraj Malik, congratulated the entire team, with special mention to Shadab Farooq, Anzer Ayoob, and Sahib Syed Goni. “This is a moment of immense pride for Jammu & Kashmir, and particularly for the Chenab Valley. The world is beginning to see the talent and rich cultural narratives that our region has to offer,” he said.
The documentary is currently available for viewing on the Dafilms platform until November 2nd, giving viewers a chance to experience the powerful storytelling that won over the international jury.
The crew includes Shadab Farooq as the director, Sahib Syed Goni as the cinematographer, Caster Rinoy Gomez as the sound designer and mixer, Anzer Ayoob as the location manager and researcher, Aparna Sanyal as the executive producer, and Rajiv Mehrotra as the producer.
Ji.hlava IDFF Reference: https://www.ji-hlava.com/tiskove-zpravy/osmadvacatou-ji-hlavu-zahajila-svetova-premiera-filmu-prezidentka-oceneni-ziskala-ceska-televize-za-reportaz-z-ukrajiny-nejlepsi-dokumentarni-knihou-je-jestli-mam-zemrit-at-je-to-pribeh
