Postmaster General’s tribute to Netaji wins laurels

Directorial debut on freedom fighter’s legacy adjudged Best Biographical Film at National Film Awards

Elephants Do Remember, a documentary on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, recently adjudged the Best Biographical Film at the 67th National Film Awards 2019, marks the directorial debut of Swati Pandey, Postmaster General, India Post, Mumbai Region. The film, which will bring to the fore unknown facts about the great freedom fighter, revolves around the life of Rama Khandwala, 94, a resident of Opera House, Mumbai, who served in the Indian National Army and worked closely with Netaji. With a run time of 37 minutes, the film is co-directed by Viplove Bhatia and Manu Bist, and produced by Films Division. The film-makers will receive the award from the President on May 3 in Delhi. Ms. Khandwala is the oldest tourist guide in India, helping Japanese tourists during their visits to Mumbai, and recipient of the Presidential Award. The film records the thrilling experiences of Ms. Khandwala, who hails from Burma (now Myanmar). In the film, she leaves the viewers awe-struck as she reminisces her association with Netaji. “Since my childhood, I was inspired by Netaji. This film is my tribute to him, the most underrated and forgotten freedom fighter of India,” Ms. Pandey said.