Panaji, Goa: Two Goa-connected cinematic projects — Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri and Toto – A Rescued Love — were successfully screened at the Waves International Short Film Festival 3.0, held from May 7 to May 10 at the ESG auditoriums, Maquinez Palace, Panaji.
The screenings marked a proud and emotional homecoming for the filmmakers after both films travelled across several national and international platforms, receiving recognition for their storytelling and creative approach.
Bhaangar Kalakusar Karigiri is a Konkani documentary created as a final-year project by Prachi Shirodkar and Mario Pimenta. Directed, shot, and narrated by Prachi Shirodkar, with editing by Mario Pimenta, the documentary was developed under the guidance of Agnelo D’Souza.
The film takes viewers into the world of Goa’s traditional goldsmith community, highlighting a centuries-old craft that continues to survive despite rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles. Through conversations with artisans including Pranay Shirodkar, Rashila Shirodkar, and Virendra Rivankar, the documentary captures stories of dedication, inherited craftsmanship, cultural identity, and the struggles of preserving traditional occupations for future generations.
Since its completion in May last year, the documentary has earned more than 10 national and international selections and has been appreciated for documenting an important yet often overlooked aspect of Goan heritage. Its screening at Waves International Short Film Festival also marked the documentary’s first major showcase in Goa, coinciding with its one-year milestone.
Another standout at the festival was Toto – A Rescued Love, an AI-generated film created by alumna Saisma Naik. The project is recognised among the early works by women exploring AI filmmaking in Goa.
The film narrates the emotional story of Toto, a stray dog abandoned despite once experiencing care and affection. Through Toto’s lonely journey of survival, loss, and hope, the narrative explores themes of abandonment, empathy, healing, and companionship. The story follows Toto’s eventual rescue by a compassionate woman and his adoption into a loving home with a young boy named Max.
Following its premiere at the AI Cinema Showcase during the India AI Impact Summit, the screening at Waves International Short Film Festival marked the film’s second screening in India.
The return of both films to Goa through the Waves International Short Film Festival gave local audiences an opportunity to experience stories deeply rooted in heritage, emotion, identity, and evolving forms of storytelling. The screenings were widely appreciated by attendees and celebrated the growing presence of Goan filmmakers on national and global cinematic platforms.
Discover more from Allycaral
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
