Shillong: Meghalaya has garnered global recognition in the field of documentary filmmaking with the film Achik Kol – The Uncharted Caves of South Garo Hills.
Directed by Gregory Allya Warjri and produced by NOMADS Film, the documentary clinched first place in the Professional Category at the prestigious 19th International Congress of Speleology held in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
The event saw fierce competition from cave documentaries across the world, with entries from countries including Brazil, Australia, Lebanon, and Hungary.
Filmed during the Core Geo Caving Expedition 2024 in the Garo Hills, Achik Kol chronicles the captivating journey of explorers, scientists, and local cavers.
One of the expedition’s most significant discoveries was the finding of a prehistoric whale fossil in Tolegre, a moment of immense scientific importance.
The film has already gained international acclaim, with screenings at the Hidden Earth UK Caving Conference and Le Festival des Voyageurs d’Ici in Switzerland, and is set to be showcased in Shillong, sparking curiosity among local audiences, particularly students.
The recognition in Brazil not only highlights the film’s exceptional storytelling and exploration but also brings attention to Meghalaya’s rich underground heritage.
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The documentary’s success is a testament to the dedication of its creative team, including Iainangsan Warjri, Lovingstar Khongkai, Derric Lyndem, Dalariti Nongpiur, Benji Syiem, and Sunny Dohling, along with support from the Core Geo team and local cavers.
This achievement is a proud moment for Meghalaya, putting the state on the global speleological map and celebrating its spirit of exploration and dedication to preserving and sharing the wonders of its natural environment.
