MUMBAI: Ever felt annoyed by rain interrupting your Netflix binge? There’s a tribe whose entire existence revolves around it—and now even they're fed up! Cue Rains Don’t Make Us Happy Anymore, a quirky yet poignant short film diving headfirst into the rapidly disappearing world of the Jaunsari tribe of Uttarakhand. And guess what? This delightful cinematic gem has bagged its world premiere at Europe’s leading documentary extravaganza, Visions du Réel. Talk about making a splash!
Produced by Sharad Mehra under Curious Eyes Cinema and masterfully crafted by writer-director Yashasvi Juyal, the film is set to premiere on 10 April 2025, at the festival’s 56 edition in Nyon, Switzerland. The festival, running from 4-13 April 2025, boasts an impressive roster of 154 films from a record-breaking 57 countries.
“We are absolutely thrilled that our film has been chosen for this prestigious festival featuring 154 films from a record 57 countries. It’s an incredible platform to share our labour of love and passion with a wider audience, and we can’t wait for the world to experience it,” says Mehra.
Nestled in Lohari village within Uttarakhand's remote Jaunsar-Bawar region, the documentary vividly captures the tribe’s fascinating yet fading culture. From faith healing rituals to intricate terraced farming, cultivating wheat, barley, and lentils, their traditions are rich—but increasingly rare. Why? Well, because young folks prefer city lights over candlelit Himalayan nights. Who can blame them?
Juyal adds perspective, noting, “This film sheds light on the pressing issue of displacement caused by the development of hydroelectric projects and dams in the Himalayas, highlighting the profound impact on both the land and its people. With limited representation of Himalayan narratives, this selection marks a monumental moment for us, and we are excited to embark on this journey, sharing this important story with the world.”
Will a short film finally put the Jaunsari tribe on the global cinematic map, or will their traditions fade faster than your New Year's resolutions? Either way, it's about time someone gave rains and tribes their due attention.
