Darshan Karaa Laun?

Being a tirtha purohit is not a business. It is a sacred duty that involves taking pilgrims on a tour of temples while inspiring them to simultaneously travel inward to the cave of their hearts, where the ishta-devatā resides. Being a tirtha purohit is not easy, especially in this age of glitzy decadence when visitors expect entertainment, distractions and comfort. In other words, the blurring of the line between a pilgrimage and a picnic is no longer a matter of contention.

Ashu Sharma is a tirtha purohit from the sacred city of Vrindavan, who spends his days guiding devotees on their pilgrimage in the age-old fashion of following the scriptural injunctions and focusing on the ritualistic aspects of the journey. However, with the advent of modernity and urbanization in the city, he is faced with the challenge of reconciling his traditional way of life with the implications of progress. Ashu finds meaning in what he does, yet it is hard to carry on as he deals with the additional pressure of earning more money from within his own family. His younger brother wants to be a travel blogger.

The documentary film “Darshan Karaa Laun” provides a rare glimpse into the world of tirtha purohits, a community of Brahmins who are committed to keeping the tradition of genuine pilgrimage alive. The film explores the emic perspective of the community on the changing landscape – physical and cultural – of Vrindavan. It is a commentary on the commitment of ordinary individuals to preserve the sanctity of pilgrimage in the face of great odds.

Support us in creating the documentary on the life of a Tirtha Purohit.

DARSHAN KARAA LAUN?

Being a tirtha purohit is not a business. It is a sacred duty that involves taking pilgrims on a tour of temples while inspiring them to simultaneously travel inward to the cave of their hearts, where the ishta-devatā resides. Being a tirtha purohit is not easy, especially in this age of glitzy decadence when visitors expect entertainment, distractions and comfort. In other words, the blurring of the line between a pilgrimage and a picnic is no longer a matter of contention.

Ashu Sharma is a tirtha purohit from the sacred city of Vrindavan, who spends his days guiding devotees on their pilgrimage in the age-old fashion of following the scriptural injunctions and focusing on the ritualistic aspects of the journey. However, with the advent of modernity and urbanization in the city, he is faced with the challenge of reconciling his traditional way of life with the implications of progress. Ashu finds meaning in what he does, yet it is hard to carry on as he deals with the additional pressure of earning more money from within his own family. His younger brother wants to be a travel blogger.

The documentary film “Darshan Karaa Laun” provides a rare glimpse into the world of tirtha purohits, a community of Brahmins who are committed to keeping the tradition of genuine pilgrimage alive. The film explores the emic perspective of the community on the changing landscape – physical and cultural – of Vrindavan. It is a commentary on the commitment of ordinary individuals to preserve the sanctity of pilgrimage in the face of great odds.

Objective

The film seeks to provide commentary on the swift modernization of Tirtha and its consequential drawbacks. These developmental initiatives are not only dismantling the quintessence of Tirtha but are also gradually eroding the fundamental aspects of Indic civilization and, more crucially, the very foundations of Hindu Dharma.

Process Flow

Research and pre-production

This involves developing the idea for the film, researching the topic or subject matter, and planning the logistics of the project, such as budgeting, scouting locations, and assembling a team.

Filming and production

This involves shooting the footage for the film, which can take anywhere from a few days to several months or even years, depending on the subject matter and scope of the project.

Writing a script and creating an outline

Once the idea is finalized and the research is done, a script is written, and an outline is created for the film's structure and flow.

Editing

After the footage has been shot, it needs to be organized and edited to create a cohesive narrative. This involves selecting the best footage, cutting out unnecessary parts, adding music and sound effects, and creating a final product that tells a compelling story.

Distribution and marketing

Once the film is complete, it needs to be distributed and marketed to reach its target audience. This can involve submitting it to film festivals, arranging screenings, and promoting it through social media and other channels.