AZADI: FREEDOM

 

A team of skiers head deep into the disputed region of Kashmir, a north-western part of the Indian subcontinent, to change its hazardous reputation through adventure. Although deemed the "most dangerous place in the world" during the violent militant insurgency of the 90s, the team find an aesthetically beautiful landscape that defies all expectation. With incredible backcountry ski spots, deep powder and the world's highest skiable gondola that reaches over 4,000 metres, Kashmir is a skiing heaven waiting to be rediscovered.

Vibrant local characters, stunning aerial ski shots, interviews and animations make up this cultural documentary. Eager to prove that Kashmir is "a paradise on earth" the national population show off their home as a global skiing gem. With many men off fighting for freedom and independence, it fell to a few to choose their skis over arms, spending days on the slopes of their glorious homeland and inviting foreigners to do the same.

Seeking to be graffiti'd by skiers, these may be some of the purest powder hills on the planet. It might seem high risk to get to with a lack of medical and rescue facilities in the region and the constant military presence, but this film shows you that the risk is worth the prize. It will leave you with a greater understanding of one of the most negatively-publicised regions in the world and have you yearning for winter.

Did you know?

Kashmir is currently administered by 3 disputing nations – China, India and Pakistan.

Until the 1800s, 'Kashmir' geographically referred to the valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range – now it is a much wider region in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.