 FESTIVALS: *Etonnants Voyageurs (Rennes, France) * Le Grand Bivouac (Albertville, France) * Pakistan Society London (London, UK) | Kalash, The Last Infidels of Pakistan
In a remote valley at the Pakistan-Afghan border, the last three thousand pagan Kalash live surrounded by the Muslim community and the Afghan refugees. At the announcement of the winter solstice, they pray, sing and dance for the rebirth of the seasons and their culture. Among them, the young Najiba realizes she has become a woman and starts to be aware of the increasing dangers that threaten her community. This spring, the Taliban have passed the gates of her village. As she leaves her carefree childhood behind, Najiba is at the turning point of Kalash history. She must choose between converting to Islam, embracing the modern world or allowing her traditions to continue. With this choice, her generation could put an end to the eternal return of the seasons, for so long sanctified by the Kalash. Award winning director Gael Métroz (NOMAD'S LAND – in the footsteps of Nicolas Bouvier) lived one year in the Himalayas with the shamans of the Kalash people. At the heart of the Taliban conflict, he gives us a rare insight into this forbidden area. This unique documentary immerses us in the daily lives of people living in perfect harmony with nature. But in the last century, the 300,000 Kalash have been converted and today only 3,000 remain. Through the eyes of a young teenager, this film makes us aware of a reality which, though distant concerns us more than ever. PRESS IMAGES: (click to preview) 
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