Malkangiri, 6th Nov 2025: In the remote Banda Ghati area of Malkangiri, a documentary film was shot under the direction of internationally renowned filmmaker and director Mr. Santosh Panda. Banda Ghati is located over 5,000 meters above sea level and has been inhabited by the Bonda tribal community since ancient times (2016).
According to local legends, this area has historical significance tied to stories of Lord Rama and Laxman. In the past, due to difficult terrain and poor connectivity, the local population faced severe economic, agricultural, and educational hardships. However, through the efforts of the Odisha government, significant improvements have been made in recent years.
The documentary focused on several aspects of life in Banda Ghati, including:
- Education and the social status of the tribal community.
- Traditional attire and customs of the Bonda people.
- How they depend on the forest for their livelihood, including the resources they gather.
- Forest land management and conservation practices using Thengapali (traditional methods).
- Child nutrition and schooling, including how teachers visit homes to encourage children, reduce dropouts, and motivate school attendance.
The film presented a comprehensive view of the community’s life, challenges, and adaptation strategies. The announcement of the filming attracted a large crowd from the local area, with villagers and teachers actively cooperating and supporting the production.
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