Delhi-born filmmaker Nisha Pahuja’s powerful documentary ‘To Kill a Tiger’ has been nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars 2024. The film tells the story of Ranjit, a farmer in Jharkhand, India, who fights for justice after his 13-year-old daughter survives a brutal sexual assault. Pahuja’s nomination not only recognizes her talent as a director but also highlights the urgent need for gender justice and the fight against sexual violence in India and beyond.
1. Nisha Pahuja Overwhelmed by Oscar Nomination
Nisha Pahuja, the Delhi-born director of ‘To Kill a Tiger,’ expressed her shock and elation upon learning about her film’s nomination for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars 2024. Having previously been recognized for her work with an Emmy nomination for ‘The World Before Her,’ Pahuja is no stranger to critical acclaim. However, the Oscar nomination holds a special significance for her, as it provides a global platform to shed light on the important issues addressed in her documentary.
2. ‘To Kill a Tiger’ Shines a Light on Gender Justice
The heart-wrenching documentary follows the journey of Ranjit, a farmer who embarks on a fight for justice after his daughter Kiran survives a brutal sexual assault. The film explores the patriarchal practices and attitudes that perpetuate violence against women in India and aims to challenge toxic masculinity. Pahuja’s nomination recognizes the importance of highlighting these issues and advocating for gender justice worldwide.
3. Pahuja Hopes to Spark Change with Her Film
Beyond the accolades and recognition, Pahuja’s main focus lies in using her film as a catalyst for change. She aims to challenge societal attitudes towards survivors of sexual violence and hopes to inspire men to stand up for women’s rights. By shining a light on the struggles faced by Ranjit, Kiran, and countless other survivors, Pahuja aims to foster empathy and understanding, ultimately leading to a more just and equal society.
4. Kiran’s Journey from Victim to Survivor
Kiran, the central figure in ‘To Kill a Tiger,’ was just a child when she endured the traumatic experience of a gang rape. Today, nearing the age of 20, she has found strength and resilience. Pahuja emphasizes Kiran’s remarkable progress and the positive impact the film has had on her. By showcasing Kiran’s journey from victim to survivor, ‘To Kill a Tiger’ offers hope and inspiration to other survivors.
5. ‘To Kill a Tiger’ Receives Critical Acclaim
In addition to the Oscar nomination, ‘To Kill a Tiger’ has garnered praise and recognition at various film festivals. It won the award for Best Canadian Film at the 2022 Toronto Film Festival and received the Best Documentary award at the Palm Springs Film Festival. These accolades further validate the importance and impact of Pahuja’s documentary in raising awareness about sexual violence and advocating for justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Nisha Pahuja?
Nisha Pahuja is a Delhi-born filmmaker known for her powerful documentaries, including ‘To Kill a Tiger.’
2. What is ‘To Kill a Tiger’ about?
‘To Kill a Tiger’ is a documentary that follows the story of Ranjit, a farmer fighting for justice after his daughter survives a sexual assault.
3. What issues does ‘To Kill a Tiger’ address?
The film addresses issues of gender justice, sexual violence, and the need to challenge toxic masculinity.
4. Has ‘To Kill a Tiger’ received any other awards?
Yes, the film was awarded Best Canadian Film at the 2022 Toronto Film Festival and Best Documentary at the Palm Springs Film Festival.
5. How does Nisha Pahuja hope to create change with her film?
Pahuja aims to change societal attitudes towards survivors of sexual violence and inspire men to stand up for women’s rights by showcasing the struggles and resilience of characters in ‘To Kill a Tiger.’