Survivor Stories Matter | Nisha Pahuja's 2022 Film Continues to Inspire
Sakhi for South Asian Survivors
A survivor-led gender justice organization that honors the collective & inherent power of all survivors of violence.
Franky Dean's journey from being an unaware survivor of sexual assault to a vocal advocate for survivors illustrates the profound impact that stories of survivorship can have. Inspired by Nisha Pahuja's documentary TO KILL A TIGER, which addresses themes of resilience and the fight for justice among survivors of violence, Franky found the courage to come forward to authorities about her own experiences.
In TO KILL A TIGER, Pahuja captures the complexities of survivorship, highlighting survivors' emotional struggles and societal challenges. This film resonates with Franky, reflecting her isolation and the critical need for acknowledgment and support. By witnessing the powerful narratives of other survivors, Franky felt a renewed sense of agency, motivating her to speak out about her past and seek the recognition she was denied in her youth.
Franky’s and the stories showcased in the film are potent reminders of the importance of validation and support for survivors, reinforcing that their voices are crucial in the ongoing fight for justice and change. You can read Franky's experience in the article here.
Nisha Pahuja is based in Toronto. Her latest film, TO KILL A TIGER, had its world premiere at TIFF, where it won the Amplify Voices Award for Best Canadian Feature Film. Since then, it’s won 27 awards, including Best Documentary Feature, Palm Springs International Film Festival, and three Canadian Screen awards. The film grew from a long career addressing various human rights issues, notably violence against women in India.