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In the heart of northeast India, on a desolate landfill site, a bird once considered a troublesome pest and a carrier of disease, the endangered Greater Adjutant stork scavenges to survive in an unlikely urban ecosystem. Known as the ‘Hargila’ or ‘Bone-swallower’, in the local Assamese language, it finds itself at the centre of a remarkable tale of an image makeover.


With fewer than 2000 birds remaining in the world, ‘Saving the Bone-swallower’ explores the unique lives of these endangered storks. It follows the quest of a grassroots level conservationist, Purnima Devi Barman, to save the last remaining birds with the help of an army of rural Assamese women as she gives them a new source of livelihood.


Purnima and her team are on a mission to rescue two orphaned stork chicks during their breeding season. With the help of Dr. Samshul Ali, she embarks on a journey to raise these orphaned birds and give them the life they deserve. But this journey is not without its obstacles. Purnima faces the daunting task of dismantling the chains of patriarchy, breaking barriers, and inspiring women to take the reins as conservationists. Witness as these birds regain their strength and prepare for their return to the wild.


‘Saving the Bone-swallower’ is a gripping, heartwarming tale of resilience and redemption, where the flight of the stork represents a shared dream of renewal and coexistence. Witness the power of community-based conservation, celebrating the incredible bond between humans and nature.

  • Year
    2023
  • Runtime
    17 minutes
  • Language
    English, Assamese
  • Country
    India
  • Genre
    Women-led Narratives
  • Subtitle Language
    English
  • Social Media
  • Director
    Mayuresh Hendre
  • Producer
    Mayuresh Hendre
  • Co-Producer
    Vidya Hendre, Kishor Hendre, UWE Bristol, BBC NHU
  • Cast
    Dr.Purnima Devi Barman, Dr. Samshul Ali
  • Cinematographer
    Mayuresh Hendre, Sachin Bharali
  • Editor
    Mayuresh Hendre
  • Animator
    Ananya Ramesh
  • Composer
    Sagar Dhote
  • Sound Design
    Sagar Dhote
  • Music
    Sagar Dhote