Ticket purchase is good for both films in this double-feature presentation.

Feature Film: 1947: BREXIT INDIA

1947: Brexit India is a captivating 2-hour documentary that delves into the economic forces behind the British Empire’s colonization and subsequent decolonization of India. Directed by Sanjivan Lal and produced by Dr. Swarnjit Singh, the film presents a unique perspective on how Britain’s mercantile pursuits led to the historical event known as the “British Exit” from India in 1947. This documentary features a star-studded cast of insights from renowned personalities like Boman Irani, Shashi Tharoor, and William Dalrymple, who bring their unique perspectives to the narrative. It questions the accelerated departure of Britain influenced by American intervention post-World War II, leading to one of the greatest tragedies of the modern era.

Opening Film: BAYWATANA

In 1996, many Afghan people, including members of religious minorities such as Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism, fled the country due to persecution. On March 25, 2020, ISIS raided a Sikh place of worship in Kabul, killing 25 people. There were several other attacks on other religious minorities by the radical Islamic group. This attack started an exodus of minority communities leaving Afghanistan, which was their home for centuries. Focusing on the loss of freedom of religion and security, this document will explore the lives of those who fled due to religious persecution. Director Harbaldeep Singh’s documentary Baywatana features members of the Sikh, Hindu, and Jews minority communities from Afghanistan who have immigrated to the USA and Canada, exploring their current life as they try to take asylum in the West, the effect of this transition on their mental health, religious persecution in the 21st century, and the healing process after losing their loved ones and roots.

All Sikhlens films not in the English language will be presented with English subtitles.

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Sikhlens, The World’s Premier Sikh Film Festival, seeks to provide an outlet for sharing Sikh heritage and culture with the rest of the world by creating awareness for work that is “Sikh-centric,” showcasing our talent, and instilling pride in our community. Sikhlens seeks work from artists in a variety of fields, including but not limited to movies, books, music, and art. It creates appropriate avenues for this work to be shared with the rest of the world with the aim of getting more exposure for the presenters; and at the same time creating awareness about Sikhs. Visit Sikhlens at sikhlens.com.

This program is a venue rental engagement. Member discounts and Frida Cinema comp passes not valid. The views and opinions expressed in this program do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of The Frida Cinema or its staff.