Virtual Bharat is a monumental project by renowned Indian filmmaker and director Bharatbala to create a repository of high-quality content on India through 1,000 short films. Over four weeks, we will be sharing the 20 short films that have been released so far, all available to watch on Virtual Bharat’s YouTube channel.
This first instalment of five films from the Virtual Bharat collection features highly talented and dedicated people and their work, including craftsmen, musicians, and a poet.
- Gulzar Presents: Haldhar Nag
A look at the People’s Poet and Pride of Odisha, Haldhar Nag, who rose from deep poverty to great fame through his gift of poetry in Kosli, an indigenous language threatened by extinction. Watch the film here.
- Shreya Ghoshal Presents: Shabad Aag Ki Khushboo
Shabad Aag Ki Khushboo is a soulful story of devotion to music, about the musicians of Bhaini Sahib, who have made an incredibly special place for Shabad (hymn) in their lives. Watch the film here.
- The Tanpuras of Miraj
For nine generations, the Sitar Maker family of Miraj has been crafting Tanpuras. This is the story of the world-famous family and their globally desired instrument. I am amazed to discover that the gourd used to make the tanpura came from Africa! Watch the film here.
- Kolhapuri Chappals
The Kolhapuri chappal makers are keeping the intricate, 850-year-old craft of making their legendary slippers alive – a single chappal can take up to six weeks to perfect! The slippers are said to never bring its wearer any aches and are the legacy, pride and identity of Kolhapur. Watch the film here.
- Jana Gana Mana – The Virtual National Anthem
A nation comes together in one voice to sing the national anthem, reflecting the social and cultural diversity of my beloved India! Watch it here.
About Parminder Vir OBE
Parminder Vir OBE has dedicated herself to
positively impacting and transforming lives through a professional career
spanning 40 years in philanthropy, entrepreneurship, film and television
production, arts and culture, and investment funding. She is the co-founder of
the Support4AfricaSMEs campaign and The African Farmers Stories, launched in
2020. She served as the CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Africa’s leading
philanthropic organisation based in Lagos, Nigeria from April 2014 to April
2019. Prior to joining the Foundation, Parminder has enjoyed a distinguished
career as an awarding winning film and television producer and private equity
investor in film and media.
