Dharavi happens to be one of the most densely populated areas in the world with a population of over a hundred thousand residing within an area of only about two square kilometres. Consequently, it also becomes a harbour of endless stories and narratives, a glimpse of which is presented forth by the beautifully crafted visuals of the documentary film. Azaan from a nearby mosque echoes in the surroundings, and the entire scene bursts into activity, taking the viewer from one profession to another that forms the backbone of this community and keeps it up and running on its feet. The visuals are tied together with a background score which, albeit soft, is complete with verve and zest, adding another layer to the film. As animal hide turns into several products for retail while, at the same time, heaps of trash find shelter in a local water body, the film becomes a montage of the various aspects of life within Dharavi. The film, a single member cast and crew effort, is commendable in its pure skill. However, it does come across as marked by the lack of a cohesive narrative. Maybe the filmmaker intends it to be a story of survival itself, yet the presence of a plot-line, even only in the form of a few voices of those who constitute this community, would have truly elevated the final product.

Dharavi-17 | Short Film of the Day

Dharavi is one of the most famous parts of Mumbai, and with good reason. An area barely over two square kilometres, it houses over 5000 businesses of different kinds within itself, suggests the film, acquiring the status of a parallel ecosystem. Why the activities of the people involved are specifically important, as the documentary aptly points out, is because Dharavi plays a massive role in recycling of the plastic that is generated as part of the tonnes of waste that Mumbai throws out every day. Not only does the film draw the viewer's attention to the scale of these operations and the manner in which the process is completed, it also talks of the working conditions of those involved who have no protective gear, along with their monthly income which comes to a measly amount. The film, using a crispness, brings to light a less talked about aspect of the locality which not only allows it to maintain its pace throughout, but also communicate its intentions lucidly.

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