Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Documentary 'Friend of the Fireflies' Premieres at IFFM 2026
A documentary called 'Friend of the Fireflies' is going to be shown at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne in 2026.
It's about a young tribal leader named Bhagyasri Lekhami from a remote village in Maharashtra, India.
She works hard to improve education, healthcare, and opportunities for her community.
The film was made with the help of the villagers, who took on different roles in the production.
It also talks about the Ulgulan Foundation, which Bhagyasri started to help children in her village and nearby areas.
The filmmakers are excited because this is their first international film festival selection, and they hope it will bring attention to the struggles and hopes of people in remote regions.
The documentary 'Friend of the Fireflies' will premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026.
It follows the journey of Bhagyasri Lekhami, a tribal leader from Markanar in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district.
Bhagyasri focuses on education, sustainability, and community development in her village.
The film was made with the active participation of the villagers, who took on various roles in production.
The documentary highlights the Ulgulan Foundation, an educational initiative started by Bhagyasri and her friend Golu.
- Who
- Bhagyasri Lekhami, Antara Banerjee, Saurav Mookherji
- What
- Premiere of the documentary 'Friend of the Fireflies' at IFFM 2026
- When
- 2026
- Where
- Markanar, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra
- Why
- To highlight the efforts of Bhagyasri Lekhami in community development and education
Community Empowerment
Challenges in Remote Filmmaking
Community Involvement
Community Empowerment
The villagers of Markanar actively participated in the film's production, taking on various roles.
Challenges in Remote Filmmaking
Filming under challenging conditions, including power shortages and monsoon disruptions, posed significant obstacles.
- Director
- Antara Banerjee and Saurav Mookherji
- Location
- Markanar, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra
- Subject
- Bhagyasri Lekhami
- Festival
- Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026
- Foundation
- Ulgulan Foundation