“Pooja, Sir,” Interview with Director Deepak Rauniyar

In a revealing interview, Deepak Rauniyar, the director of “Pooja, Sir,” discusses the intricate personal and social inspirations behind his film in the section Orizzonti, which is deeply rooted in his own experiences with discrimination in Nepal. Rauniyar describes “Pooja, Sir” as a “product of love,” referencing his previous work, “White Sun,” which tackled the aftermath of the civil war in Nepal. This new film continues this thematic exploration, delving into the lived experiences of marginalized communities and the urgent need for dignity and recognition.

Setting the Film Against Historical Protests

Rauniyar shares that he intentionally set “Pooja, Sir” in the same locations where significant protests occurred during the political upheaval of history in 2007 and 2015.

During these demonstrations, hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets to demand federalism and equal rights, risking their lives for the basic necessities of dignity and justice. By anchoring his film in these real-life events, Deepak Rauniyar underscores the importance of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding among different communities.

Collaboration and Diverse Perspectives

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Rauniyar‘s process. His partnership with Asha Magratti, who contributed significantly to the film, adds depth to the narrative. They come from different backgrounds, with Magratti identifying as part of a light-skinned community while Rauniyar aligns himself with populations that face discrimination. This difference enriches the storytelling, as they seek to convey a message that transcends their individual experiences. Rauniyar emphasizes that much of the film’s narrative is inspired by both their lives, showcasing how gender inequality and societal norms have impacted them personally and collectively.

Rauniyar, Portrayal of Women and Gender Disparity

One of the central themes of “Pooja, Sir” is the portrayal of women in Nepal. Rauniyar highlights how uneven representation in films and media often neglects the struggles that women face daily. He reflects on Asha’s encounters with gender disparity during her upbringing, noting how she was denied the same educational opportunities as her brother, who received preferential treatment. This dynamic mirrors broader societal views in Nepal, where gender roles are rigidly defined, often preventing women from realizing their potential.

Through the character of Asha, Rauniyar passionately depicts the challenges faced by women trying to navigate their identities and roles in a patriarchal society. Despite her aspirations to be viewed as a “son” following the loss of her brother, Asha was continually met with resistance and discri