“Devi”: When impact campaigns support social and political change

By
The StoryBoard Collective
on
February 13, 2025

Devi”, directed by Subina Shrestha, is an award-winning documentary that follows the journey of Devi Khadka, a rebel fighter and survivor of sexual violence. Traveling across Nepal, Devi Khadka listens to the stories of other wartime rape survivors, amplifying their voices and creating a unified voice for justice.

As a result of Devi’s advocacy, a key law was changed in Nepal in August 2024, that finally gives women who have come forward to testify during the last year, a pathway to justice. The impact campaign linked to the film “Devi” has played a crucial role in this major shift in how the Nepali government now recognizes these survivors.

The law has yet to be fully implemented, so the film team remains committed to continuing to pressure the authorities through screenings across Nepal with targeted events in Kathmandu—especially at a time where support for rape survivors and women's rights are facing unprecedented challenges following the freezing of U.S. foreign aid and the closure of established support systems.

Looking ahead in March, a screening of “Devi” is planned at the United Nations in New York, as well as in The Hague at Movies That Matter and in London, where the film will be shown to lawmakers and changemakers in the House of Lords.

Each screening highlights this issue to new audiences. The discussions elicit support and new ideas, not only for women in Nepal but for women around the world who are still struggling to be seen and heard.

Support the campaign here.

If you are interested to invite the film team to festivals and organize impact or educational screenings, feel free to reach out to: devidocumentary@gmail.com

Others News to Read
Exciting News from AuthenticA Alumni
Exciting News from AuthenticA Alumni

Just a few weeks after the end of AuthenticA, two of this year’s fellows have been selected for the Red Sea SeriesLab program, held in partnership with Film Independent.

Runa Simi: A World Premiere at Tribeca
Runa Simi: A World Premiere at Tribeca

“Runa Simi”, recipient of the StoryBoard Impact Award at the FIFDH Impact Days 2024, is having its world premiere next month at the Tribeca Film Festival.

The Illusion of Abundance impact tour report is out!
The Illusion of Abundance impact tour report is out!

This new report details the impact tour of “The Illusion of Abundance” and offers practical advice for creators interested in developing their own film impact campaigns.