SEMKHOR: Decoding Collective Tradition and Individual Dignity

Observant filmmaker Aimee Baruah’s “Semkhor” (2021), is the first full-length film in the Dimasa language and was also the first Dimasa film chosen to open the Indian Panorama section of the 52nd International Film Festival of India. Semkhor is the name of a village located in Dima Hasao district of Assam, surrounded by mountains and forests. The film follows the journey of a woman- a mother and wife- as she endures multiple tragedies. Through an examination of the woman’s struggles, Baruah illustrates the social hierarchy and custom, traditions and beliefs of the Dimasa community. As the film progresses, the scope of the story grows larger and includes the entire community. The film makes significant strides towards developing Dimasa literature and language. Specifically, it addresses the hardships faced by women. It defines “custom” and “tradition” as the beliefs and rituals that guide the community. However, the film also highlights how women are disrespected and mistreated based upon outdated and irrational ideas about violence. Patriarchal oppression is clearly visible throughout the lives of women. Women endure the burden of childbirth. Women do not receive enough recognition for their contributions. Women marry young. Women go through various customs regarding childbirth. All of these practices result in women experiencing pain. The woman at the center of this struggle is Diro’s wife. Her name is Jagannath Sheth. Women give birth to children but their pain is rarely acknowledged. Women suffer quietly. Women are angry. These emotions create a tone for the film. Following the loss of a husband and subsequently losing a child, women are left alone to raise families. Women transition from grieving to publicly protesting injustices