The Yamuna River, known as 'Jamna' to the locals, is one of the most culturally significant and historically rich rivers in India. Flowing through the heart of Delhi, the river has long been a lifeline for millions, serving as a source of water, livelihood, and spiritual connection.
But in recent years, the Yamuna has found itself in the grip of severe pollution, mismanagement, and ignorance, resulting in a slow but devastating decline. Jamna: The River Story is a powerful documentary that brings this environmental crisis to light, while also offering a call to action for all those who care about the future of the river.
Directed by Ishani K Dutta, a filmmaker with almost two decades of experience, this documentary delves into the history, struggles, and hopes surrounding the Yamuna. Known for her award-winning socially relevant documentaries, Dutta has once again managed to capture a human-centric story that reflects both the urgency of the situation and the potential for change. The film showcases the river's deterioration, focusing on how it affects not just the environment, but also the lives of thousands of people who depend on it for survival.
The Lifeline of Delhi: Yamuna River’s Decline
The Yamuna, one of the most important rivers in India, has been a silent witness to the rise and fall of civilizations. Over the centuries, it has been revered as a sacred river, worshipped for its life-giving powers. Yet, in modern times, the river has been subjected to relentless pollution, untreated sewage, and industrial waste, leading to a catastrophic environmental crisis.
According to experts, almost 80% of the Yamuna’s pollution comes from domestic waste, with untreated sewage from Delhi being a major contributor. Industrial waste from factories along the riverbanks further worsens the situation. Despite numerous initiatives to clean the river, the situation remains dire, with the water becoming so toxic that it can no longer support aquatic life. The once-mighty river is now a shadow of its former self, struggling to flow amidst layers of foam and toxic waste.
Shyam: The Boatman’s Story
At the heart of Jamna: The River Story is the story of Shyam, a boatman who has spent his entire life on the Yamuna. For generations, Shyam’s family has relied on the river for their livelihood, ferrying people across its waters and fishing to support themselves. But in recent years, Shyam has witnessed the slow death of the river he loves.
Shyam’s story reflects the struggles of thousands of people who live along the riverbanks and depend on the Yamuna for their survival. As pollution levels have skyrocketed, many boatmen, farmers, and fishermen have lost their source of income. The toxic water has not only devastated the river’s ecosystem but has also taken away the livelihoods of those who have lived in harmony with the river for generations.
Through Shyam’s experiences, the documentary sheds light on the human cost of environmental degradation. The film emphasizes that the river is not just a waterbody but a lifeline that supports entire communities. The loss of the Yamuna would mean the loss of culture, history, and the very essence of life for many.
Ishani K Dutta: A Visionary Filmmaker
Director Ishani K Dutta is no stranger to socially relevant documentaries. With nearly two decades of experience, she has established herself as a filmmaker who brings attention to pressing social and environmental issues. Her films have been recognized at festivals like IFFI, Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival, and the Kolkata International Film Festival. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the human stories behind these issues, making her films both powerful and relatable.
In Jamna: The River Story, Dutta takes on the role of both filmmaker and activist, using her platform to bring attention to the crisis facing the Yamuna. Through stunning visuals, heartfelt interviews, and compelling storytelling, she captures the beauty and tragedy of the river’s current state.
A Call to Action
Jamna: The River Story is not just a documentary about a polluted river; it’s a call to action. Dutta uses the film to urge audiences to reflect on their own role in the degradation of the Yamuna and to take steps toward its revival. The film emphasizes that the fate of the river is not sealed, and with collective effort, it can still be saved.
The documentary highlights several ongoing initiatives aimed at cleaning the river, including government efforts, NGO interventions, and community-driven projects. However, it also stresses that these efforts will only be successful if the people of Delhi – and beyond – take responsibility for their actions and make a conscious effort to reduce their impact on the river.
Can the Yamuna Be Saved?
Jamna: The River Story leaves viewers with a haunting yet hopeful message: the Yamuna can be saved, but only if we act now. The film asks us to reconsider our relationship with nature, reminding us that rivers like the Yamuna are not just waterbodies but living entities that support life, culture, and history.