Experiencing Interruptions?

Mayalou (My Beloved)

This documentary film is a personal journey into the lives of my elderly aunts, exploring the impact of family separation. Raised differently because their father could only afford education for one, one sister went to boarding school while the other stayed home to care for the family. The film champions women's independence, showing their right to live fully even as they age alone, far from their children.

It's a story about the value of community, seen through the eyes of these sisters as they face old age, memories of love, and the challenges of living apart from their children. As they come together again in their later years for support, the film shows the anxiety older people feel and how important community is at this stage of life.

Through songs and memories, we see one sister's philosophical outlook and the other's practical approach. It's about two very different people finding common ground in their shared fears and the need for companionship now that their husbands are gone.

  • Pratishtha Chhetri
    Director
  • Pratishtha Chhetri
    Producer
  • Pratishtha Chhetri
    Cinematography
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    Mayalou
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 22 minutes 17 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 9, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    7,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    India
  • Country of Filming:
    India
  • Language:
    Nepali
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Pratishtha Chhetri

Pratishtha Chhetri is an independent documentary filmmaker and photographer from Kalimpong, India , with a keen insight into human complexities within society. Her work consistently places the intricacies of human experience at the forefront, showcasing a perceptive understanding of societal nuances. Alongside her creative endeavors, she works as an educator, imparting her knowledge and passion for visual storytelling. Additionally, Pratishtha has made impactful contributions to several NGOs in her role as a communications officer, leveraging her skills to amplify their missions and messages.

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Director Statement

"Mayalou" is a heartfelt tale of two elderly sisters, rediscovering their bond after years apart. One sister ventured away for studies, while the other stayed close in their village home. Their story becomes a window into the journey of growing old, facing life's challenges, and coping with the emotional distance from their grown children. The film questions if family connections alone can bring fulfilment in life's later stages. Amidst their life's ups and downs, we witness their worries, dreams, and vulnerabilities, highlighting how fragile life can be and emphasising the importance of companionship. Ultimately, the film aims to ignite introspection in our audience, encouraging contemplation of their own lives and the common human threads that weave us all together.