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Kharvan- in search of the Elusive one

KHARVAN is a mixed-media documentary exploring the coexistence between smooth-coated otters and the ancient Khazan ecosystem of Goa. Blending live-action and animation, the film delves into the unique socio-ecological balance of these human-engineered wetlands, highlighting their rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and the challenges they face today. Through a narrative that intertwines wildlife, local traditions, and conservation, KHARVAN tells a captivating story of harmony, resilience, and the urgent need to protect the Otters living in these ecosystems.

  • Nitya Navelkar
    Director
  • Nitya Navelkar
    Writer
  • Sara Wadekar
    Script
  • Paresh Porob
    Script
  • Clarisan Fernandes
    music
  • Narayan Desai
    voice over
  • Shreyas Kamat
    voice over
  • Dhruv Bhende
    color grading
  • Padma Kamat
    mentors
  • Paresh Porob
    mentors
  • Pramod Marshal
    mentors
  • Yohann Dsouza
    title design
  • Nandini Goswami
    title design
  • Suresh Narvekar
    Field guide
  • Stephen Dias
    Field guide
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    KHARVAN
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Documentary, Experimental, Short, Student, Web / New Media
  • Genres:
    Wildlife, Exploration, Adventure, Culture, Metaphysics, Tradition, Emotional
  • Runtime:
    17 minutes 14 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 16, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    India
  • Country of Filming:
    India
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    19:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - National Institute of Design, Madhya Pradesh
  • International Film Festival of India
    Goa,
    India
    November 21, 2024
    Goan Premiere
    Official Selection and opening film
Director Biography - Nitya Navelkar

Nitya is a Communication Design graduate from the National Institute of Design, Madhya Pradesh. She is passionate about storytelling through short films that address social issues. With a deep love for nature and animals, her work explores the unique stories each creature holds. She combines reality and imagination through various visual media, including illustration, animation, film, and photography.

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Director Statement

Kharvan was created to document the rich heritage of Goa, focusing on its Khazans and the wildlife that thrives within them. With a history spanning over 2000 years, the Khazans hold countless unique stories, one of which is Kharvan. This film follows the search for the elusive otter, a bioindicator species that has made the Khazans its home. It highlights the origins of the Khazans and the processes involved while also sharing the intriguing tale of the ‘susegaad’ otters that inhabit this ecosystem. The narrative unfolds through a blend of live-action and animation, inviting viewers into this fascinating world.