In 2021, Nepal experienced numerous forest fires. They severely affected the local population as well as the country’s flora and fauna. The documentary “Wildfire” picks up the events and tells them through the fate of a Red Panda. Fleeing the flames, he was found exhausted in a river by soldiers.
“Wildfire” has been screened at over 30 film festivals worldwide and has won several awards. A 5-minute short version is available on YouTube. The original version is 10 minutes long and will be released there soon.
In an email interview with Red Pandazine, director Shyam Karki explains which coincidence led to this movie and also elaborates on the challenges the climate crisis poses for Nepal.
How did you develop the idea for this documentary?
Shyam Karki: It’s a fascinating tale. During a shoot for another project in the uphill village of Ghyangphedi, northern Nepal, I unexpectedly encountered the army carrying a basket containing a Red Panda. Intrigued, I followed them with my camera and decided to capture the unfolding scene. Back in Kathmandu, upon reviewing the footage, I sensed the potential to transform this into a compelling film. I reached out to a local ranger for additional shots, conducted interviews with an ecologist, and crafted a 5-minute version for the Kimff (Kathmandu International Film Festival) organized by the European Union. The film secured the second position, prompting me to realize the story’s depth and motivating me to expand it into a 10-minute film.
So the fact that a Red Panda is at the focus of your film is to some extent a coincidence?
Shyam Karki: Without the forest fire, Red Pandas wouldn’t have descended to the lower regions near human settlements for water, and I wouldn’t have stumbled upon this narrative. Moreover, I believe the red panda would serve as a compelling illustration of the profound impact forest fires have on the ecosystems they inhabit.
In your documentary, it seems as if some locals are not familiar with this species. Are Red Pandas rarely seen in this region?
Shyam Karki: This species is uncommon, and spotting it is quite rare. Additionally, the individuals featured in the video come from various regions in Nepal where the Red Panda is not typically found.
The climate crisis is the overarching theme in your film. What impact will it have on people, nature and wildlife in Nepal in the coming years?
Shyam Karki: The climate crisis, as depicted in the film, is a pervasive theme with far-reaching implications. In the coming years, its impact on Nepal is expected to be substantial across people, nature, and wildlife. Communities will likely face increased challenges related to extreme weather events, changing agricultural patterns, and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters. The delicate ecosystems and biodiversity in Nepal may face disruptions, affecting wildlife habitats and migration patterns. Moreover, the threat of rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns poses risks to water resources, agriculture, and overall ecological balance. It’s a multi-faceted challenge that demands comprehensive strategies for adaptation and mitigation to safeguard both the people and the environment in Nepal.
Are you planning any more films on this topic?
Shyam Karki: With funding, there’s a possibility of expanding the film to delve into additional subtopics connected to its theme. Meanwhile, we are actively engaged in crafting a feature-length documentary centered on the street dogs of Nepal. These dogs, also preyed upon by tigers due to deforestation, migrate to residential areas in search of sustenance.
Shyam Karki has been working as a filmmaker for more than 15 years. He documented the earthquake in Nepal with the films “The Experience” (original title “u ayo ayo”) and “Blockade”. With his company Samson Film Production, he also produced “Wildfire“. Karki also works as a freelancer for various international media outlets and organizations.