In Writing With Fire we follow a group of Dalit (previously known as “Untouchable”) women in Uttar Pradesh, India. Despite their already vulnerable position in society, these women have come together to make their own newspaper. Not only is the field of journalism heavily dominated by men in India, it is also one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists. The newspaper Khabar Lahariya, becomes their platform to reach the very society they wish to change.

The dedicated women of Khabar Lahariya see it as their social mission to challenge the large systemic and social attitudes toward caste and gender in India. Their workday consists of a constant battle to be taken seriously and a seemingly endless stream of harassment, while at the same time reporting on stories where women are continuosly being exploited and mistreated.
This Oscar nominated documentary shows how one group of women, armed with mobile phones, a platform of their own and unfaltering courage, are able to reach far across the limits of their rural society. This is a beautiful portrait the Dalit women, who in spite of their situation and environment use the might of the pen to create a safer world for women. Writing With Fire is an incredible story that will stir many different emotions at one, but which will most of all inspire.

Writing With Fire won the documentary award at Films From the South, and has received numerous distinctions at festivals around the world.

Emma Tornes