6:8 Who tells your story?

Ali and Muna talk fashion

The whole team went south today in order to introduce our Norwegian colleagues to Sangeeta. The interview that Moyee and I made last year was enough for this crew to gain funding for a proper documentary on her story as an acid attack survivor which they hope will raise awareness of this tragically common act of violence.

Lovely to see her fit and well after the awful typhoid she experienced earlier this year

Sangeeta and Moyee catching up 🥰

We wanted to be sure Sangeeta felt comfortable and safe when being interviewed so Moyee has taken on the role of translator for the film. Of course, there was no way of knowing for sure that this would allow Sangeeta to explain her experience fully but she knows we care about her and want her to be heard clearly.

It was great to meet Sangeeta’s husband this time as well – he’s here to support her as the film is made

Moyee and Sangeeta heading off to meet Elin, Harald and Petronelle

We also met the legendary Heifara – very briefly – but long enough to get her to tell Ali the monkey story (see blog seasons 1 and 4)

And then… and then… and then… 🐒

Ali and I were treated to a lovely lunch with Uday before heading north to train with the Disha girls.

The view of the dojo from the girls’ living space

We had an exciting warm up of reaction games.

Here’s me trying to run faster than Neha

Training with the girls does also mean lots of hugs 🥰 (Here’s Rishika)

Ujala continues to use her growth spurt very effectively 😊

Muskan isn’t sure about this evil thumb lock

Including this so past readers can see that ‘Chorti’ Kajal is not little any more. I’ve started calling her Lumbi-Chorti Kajal (Tall-little Kajal) 🤣

And yes, that’s ‘little’ Anjali on the left 🥰

Devesh was also kicking Ali tonight (never ends well!)

Reaction games with Sushmita and Anjali

And finally, the Ali ‘one more time’ stretch session. Brutal

Sushmita and Rishika sticking it out well

As we went back to the hotel, we heard from Team Norway. The day’s filming has gone brilliantly and Sangeeta was an absolute star. She had them all in tears at one stage but they were so moved by the raw power in her account. So pleased we have been able to facilitate this, and big credit to Moyee and Sangeeta for their sensitivity and courage.

Elin at work

Harald at work behind the camera 😎

I’ll leave you with this sobering report from the Guardian. Many countries have a way to go to ensure safety and independence for half their population. India, undeniably, needs to move faster and further for its daughters.