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A documentary about Sheema Kermani won big at Montreal's South Asian Film Festival

A documentary about Sheema Kermani won big at Montreal's South Asian Film Festival

With Bells on her Feet explores the classical dancer's life and fight for social justice during the Zia regime.
Updated 06 Nov, 2019

Sheema Kermani, one of the most celebrated Pakistanis for her fight to end social injustice in the country, has a documentary based on her life and work.

Directed by Taimur Rahim with Waheed Ali as associate producer, With Bells on her Feet is a glimpse into the classical dancer's past and the trailer is nothing less than inspirational.

It's no surprise then that the doc won big at the South Asian Film Festival of Montreal; the team bagged the Best Short and Audience Choice accolade.

Rahim revealed, "This film is a labour of love. Miss Sheema Kermani's many years of experience and especially the beauty she brings to every movement is the essence of the film. Moving forward my hope is that our youth be uninhibitedly allowed to express themselves, whether it's dance or any other form of expression. May freedom, kindness and tolerance always prevail."

In the one minute trailer, Kermani's voiceover explains, "For me, there is a direct relationship between dance and liberation. When a woman stands on stage to dance what she's saying is: 'Here I am, I'm not ashamed of my body, I am confident and I do not fear you.'"

"My journey has been a lonely one but what keeps me going is a hope that future generations will embrace dance not just as an art form it is a means to achieve peace, humility and beauty."

Kermani in a still from the doc.
Kermani in a still from the doc.

Talking to Images, Kermani shared, "I was quite taken aback and surprised when a handsome young man came to see me, he introduced himself as a filmmaker and said that he wanted to make a short documentary about my life and work. Nothing that I said would put him off and soon I was persuaded by his conviction and determination."

"It is a pleasure and truly an honour for me and I congratulate both Taimur and Waheed for these awards. And yes! the bells must tinker on!”

The 15-minute doc will be available online some time next year.

Comments

Cris Dan Nov 05, 2019 04:40pm
How sad that she is not appreciated well for her art in her own country.
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John Cool Nov 05, 2019 06:33pm
Such a brave lady."Here I am, I'm not ashamed of my body, I am confident and I do not fear you." Bravo!!!!! This should be the face of Asian women especially south. Kudos.
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Dr Vikas Jamwal Nov 05, 2019 08:02pm
She is a epitome of love and compassion. One can learn a lot about humanity from a towering figure like her.
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Deepak Nov 05, 2019 09:46pm
Salute to those who love the Art in any form that is peaceful and soul entertaining.
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Ashok De Nov 05, 2019 10:55pm
This report gives me a lots of fresh air apart from regular brick batting in this part of the country, at least women are allowed to do their choice of arts. It should be encouraged more to allow more Pakistani girls to adopt their thousand year old traditions irrespective religion. Good report.
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Ahmed Nov 06, 2019 01:11am
Congratulations.
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Zak Nov 06, 2019 02:07am
An excellent documentary, showing that art is insuppressible , whatever form it takes and the fault is in the minds of those who see it in any other way. Director Taimur Rahim did an great job. ‘Rahim revealed, "This film is a labour of love. Miss Sheema Kermani's many years of experience and especially the beauty she brings to every movement is the essence of the film. Moving forward my hope is that our youth be uninhibitedly allowed to express themselves, whether it's dance or any other form of expression. May freedom, kindness and tolerance always prevail."
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Zak Nov 06, 2019 02:10am
Now thats the kind of Film makers we need, persistent and professional. Rahim talking to Images, Kermani shared, "I was quite taken aback and surprised when a handsome young man came to see me, he introduced himself as a filmmaker and said that he wanted to make a short documentary about my life and work. Nothing that I said would put him off and soon I was persuaded by his conviction and determination."professional to international standards. ‘ ‘
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Praveen Nov 06, 2019 02:29am
Congratulations Sheema ji! A brave patriotic artist. Very happy to see you honored. Art has no boundaries.
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Raja Nov 06, 2019 12:05pm
I never thought I would hear about someone in today's day and age in Pakistan practising Bharatanatyam. Very impressive! Please continue this beautiful tradition.
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