Guwahati: The acclaimed short documentary ‘HARGILA – The Greater Adjutant Stork’ has been released for public viewing on YouTube.
Directed by senior Assam police officer and filmmaker Dr. Parthasarathi Mahanta, the documentary tells the compelling story of a community-led conservation initiative in Assam.
The documentary is now accessible to global audiences at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMpJrkc7mK4
It centres around one of the world’s most endangered bird species—the Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as Hargila.
Produced by Mina Mahanta and Indrani Baruah, the documentary highlights the inspiring story of how grassroots efforts led by women from the villages of Dadara and Pasaria helped rescue the Hargila from the brink of extinction.
At the heart of the film is the work of noted conservationist and Whitley Award winner Dr. Purnima Devi Barman.
Her tireless campaign reshaped local perceptions of the bird, mobilizing an entire community to protect it.
Once listed among the 20 most endangered bird species globally by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Hargila faced severe threats due to habitat destruction and public apathy.
But through innovative conservation approaches, such as involving rural women in nest protection, community celebrations, and environmental education, the species is witnessing a gradual revival.
The bird’s survival story has become a symbol of ecological and cultural revival.
Mahanta said, “This film is not just about a bird. It’s about a movement, a transformation, and the power of local action. It shows how ordinary people, especially women, became extraordinary protectors of wildlife.”
The documentary has earned critical acclaim and international recognition, having been officially selected for screening at nine film festivals, including Mumbai Short Film Festival, 2022; S.O.F.A. Film Festival (Animals, Wildlife, Environment, Conservation), 2022; 11th Delhi Shorts International Film Festival, 2022; Tagore International Film Festival, 2022; Goa Short Film Festival, 2022; Pune Short Film Festival, 2022; Wildlife Conservation Film Festival, 2022; 15th Jaipur International Film Festival, 2023 and 13th Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival, 2023.
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“HARGILA” received a Special Mention at the National Film Awards 2022, applauded for its emotional depth, visual storytelling, and environmental impact.
