Incredible Journey: How Writing With Fire Achieved its Oscar Nomination and Changed the Narrative on Indian Feminist Journalism

The documentary film Writing with Fire, directed by Indian filmmakers Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh, has made history by becoming the first Indian film to receive an Oscar nomination for Best Documentary Feature at the 94th Academy Awards. This film was announced on the official Twitter account of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, marking a monumental moment in the world of documentary filmmaking in India.

Background and Nomination

The nomination was announced live on Tuesday, bringing excitement and jubilation to the film’s creators. A video capturing their euphoric reactions was widely shared on social media, earning a viral response from fans, fellow filmmakers, and celebrities. This historic nomination is a testament to the groundbreaking work of Writing with Fire. The film is scheduled to compete with other notable documentaries such as Ascension, Attica, and Flee and Summer of the Soul Or When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised.

The Story Behind Writing with Fire

Writing with Fire tells the story of Khabar Lahriya, an independent women's newspaper in India run by Dalit women. While the newspaper was established in 2002 by Delhi-based NGO Nirantar, it started operations in Chitrakoot, in the Bundelkhand region. The documentary highlights the paper's transition from print to digital formats, illustrating the challenges faced by these women reporters in their field work. Accompanied by Meera and her colleagues, the film explores the reporters' pursuit of stories in remote areas, where women's rights and basic necessities are often overlooked.

Challenges Faced by Journalists in Dalit Communities

The documentary delves into the harrowing realities faced by women reporters in Dalit communities. These women navigate treacherous terrain, often traveling by bus, train, auto-rickshaw, or even walking long distances on deserted roads, to report on stories that often revolve around gender and caste violence, lack of basic amenities, and poverty. The film captures a stark reality, one that is often brushed under the rug by the government, as it challenges their claims and undermines their authority.

Recognition and Awards

Writing with Fire has garnered significant recognition, with its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in 2021, where it won the Audience Award and a Special Jury Award. Since then, the film has been celebrated worldwide, winning more than 20 international awards and critical acclaim from esteemed publications like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.

Impact and Reception

Reviews of Writing with Fire have been overwhelmingly positive, with The Washington Post hailing it as the most inspiring journalism movie ever made. Titled as an "rousing inspirational tribute to the pride of grassroots Indian journalism," the film offers a unique blend of intimate storytelling and powerful journalism. The NPR interview with the filmmakers provides insights into the filmmaking process and the impact the documentary has had on its subjects and viewers alike.

Conclusion

The nomination of Writing with Fire for the Oscars is not only a milestone for the Indian film industry but also a significant moment in the narrative of women's empowerment in journalism. By shedding light on the struggles of Dalit women reporters and their unwavering commitment to social justice, the film has not only changed the course of documentary filmmaking but also challenged societal norms and sparked important conversations.

Writing with Fire serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of dedicated journalism. As the film enters the realm of international discourse, it invites a global audience to reflect on the importance of equality and the impact of courageous reporting in shaping a more just world.