Watch Kamlahari The Stolen Childhood of Nepal

Kamlahari: The Stolen Childhood of Nepal is an emotional and insightful documentary that takes viewers on a journey through the heart of rural Nepal. The film follows the lives of a group of young girls who were sold into indentured servitude as Kamlaharis, a practice that has been outlawed in Nepal but is still prevalent in many parts of the country.

The film is directed by Paola Calvo and Patrick Jasim, who spent years working with local organizations and activists to bring attention to the plight of these young girls. The result is a powerful and moving film that sheds light on a little-known issue and gives voice to the girls who have been forced to live a life of servitude.

The film begins by introducing viewers to the Kamlahari system, in which young girls from poor families are sold to wealthy households to work as domestic servants. The girls are often promised an education and a better life, but in reality, they are forced to do hard labor and are subjected to physical, emotional, and sometimes sexual abuse.

The film focuses on the individual stories of several girls, including Saraswati, who was sold to a family when she was just six years old. Saraswati is now a teenager, and the film follows her as she struggles to balance her duties as a Kamlahari with her desire to attend school and pursue her dreams.

Another girl, Sabitri, was sold to a family when she was just nine years old. She is now 18, and the film shows how she has become an activist, working with local organizations to help other girls who are trapped in the Kamlahari system.

Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to a variety of individuals who are working to end the Kamlahari system, including lawyers, activists, and former Kamlaharis themselves. These interviews and discussions provide valuable context and insight into the cultural and economic factors that allow this system to persist.

One of the most powerful aspects of the film is the way it humanizes the young girls who are trapped in the Kamlahari system. The filmmakers spend time with the girls and their families, allowing viewers to see them as individuals with hopes, dreams, and fears.

The film also addresses the role that education can play in combating the Kamlahari system. Several organizations are shown working to provide education and support to Kamlaharis, giving them the skills and knowledge to break free from their servitude.

Overall, Kamlahari: The Stolen Childhood of Nepal is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a complex and troubling issue. The film combines powerful storytelling with insightful interviews and valuable context to create a film that is both informative and emotionally resonant.

Kamlahari The Stolen Childhood of Nepal is a 2013 drama with a runtime of 52 hours.