Published: 17 June 2010
by DAN CARRIER

ONE for your diary: on Thursday July 1, the premiere of a documentary by Camden-based film-makers Michael Lawson and Anjali Guptara is due to be screened at the Vue West End in Leicester Square.

These salubrious surroundings are in stark contrast to the subject matter of the film. Called India’s Forgotten Women, it explores the lives of millions who, because of the caste system, are in a seriously unpleasant situation.

The film includes evidence of domestic violence, dowry crime, sex-selective abortion, female infanticide, bonded labour, rape, prostitution and human trafficking. 

Guptara says one of the things they tackled is the way these contemporary issues are seen. “One of the main problems with the issues that we cover is that people think they are historical problems, perhaps even legends or myths,” she says. “Contemporary urban Indians at home or abroad are often shocked to discover these practices continue despite the fact they are officially abolished or illegal.”

Funded by charity The Pipe Village Trust, this film can’t help but make you ask: How can this oppression be ­tolerated in any society? 

After the  screening, there will be a question and answer session with Sky News India reporter Dharshini David and author Lady Kishwar Desai.

l To get tickets, and for more information, visit www.pipevillagetrust.org/ifw