Ricky Pullock

Jalpaiguri, June 10, 2025: Under the open sky of Sonali Tea Garden’s Bara Line, an extraordinary evening unfolded June 6, as villagers gathered for the premiere of Khun Pasina Jekar, Cha Bagan Ukar (“Your Sweat Nurtures, the Tea Garden Flourishes”).
stirring documentary

At the heart of the 95-minute film is John Paul Oraon, a young tribal researcher and alumnus of Don Bosco School Oodlabari and the Department of Social Work at Salesian College (Autonomous), Siliguri.

As field researcher and narrator, Oraon’s connection to Sonali captures decades of sacrifice, solidarity, and survival.

“Sonali’s story is my story,” John told the audience, his voice resonating with emotion. “Through this film, we show the world what happens when livelihoods disappear, but also how our community rose together.”

The documentary traces the history of Sonali Tea Garden’s dramatic closure on September 24, 1973, following a standoff over Pooja festival bonuses, and the remarkable formation of a workers’ cooperative less than a year later, on September 6, 1974. Notably, the cooperative implemented equal pay for men and women and distributed a 20% bonus by 1977 — preceding even the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976.

Through meticulous fieldwork, Oraon gathered oral histories, archival material, and powerful testimonies, including an emotional interview with Mattu Oraon, former vice-chairman of the cooperative. “We did it. Others can too,” Mattu said tearfully during the screening — a moment that left the crowd in solemn silence.

Directed by Dooars-based filmmaker and social activist Rupam Deb, and assisted by Shard Mahali, the film was shot in Sadri and Kurukh, with subtitles planned in Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, and English to reach wider audiences.

“This isn’t just a film,” John said. “It’s a call to action — a roadmap for other closed tea gardens.”

One of the film’s most stirring recreations shows workers crossing the Teesta River to demand justice from the Jalpaiguri District Magistrate — a defining act of courage that still resonates today.

Rooted in Don Bosco’s values and informed by his social work education, John sees the project as a tribute to his ancestors. “Sonali’s blood and sweat built this garden,” he said. “I’m honoured to help tell its story.”

As the closing credits rolled under the stars, applause erupted across Bara Line. This was not just cinema — it was catharsis. A community saw its history honoured and its hopes renewed.

Khun Pasina Jekar is more than a documentary. It is a mirror, a monument, and a movement — born in the soil of Sonali, with a message that echoes across the tea gardens of India.